SUMMER SIPPERS
Here in Lodi Wine Country, summer is at its peak and the temperature is hot, hot, hot! Fortunately for us, our region just happens to be situated directly east of the San Francisco Bay, at the edge of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, whose famous “delta breezes” provide a much-needed cool down effect in the early evening. It is this perfect climate of warm days and cool evenings that allow our winegrowers to consistently produce wine grapes full of flavor, yet balanced by a refreshing acidity. While you’re waiting for those day-to-day delta breezes to blow through this month, here are our picks for three invigorating white wines to keep you “cool by the pool.” (Bonus: All three wines are sporting screw cap closures, making them that much more accessible, and we threw in a wine pourer as well because, why not!)
LANGETWINS FAMILY WINERY 2014 LODI SAUVIGNON BLANC
Refreshing on a warm summer day, this lovely Sauvignon Blanc satisfies with brisk Meyer lemon flavors intertwined with tropical melon. This sunshiny wine is the perfect complement to fresh seafood ceviche, grilled calamari or a scoop of lemon sorbet. ($15) LangeTwins.com
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RONSTONE VINEYARDS 2013 LODI PINOT GRIGIO
Crisp, fresh and uncomplicated, this floral Pinot Grigio is bursting with red and green apples, delicate peaches, and hints of lush lemon. Sip this beautiful wine alongside fresh greens tossed with avocado, watermelon and grilled sea scallops, or flatbread pizza with basil pesto. ($10) IronStoneVineyards.com
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LDS FAMILY WINERY 2014 LODI WHITE CUVÉE
Predominantly Viognier (vee-oh-NYAY) with a splash of Verdelho, this exhilarating white wine is aromatic and flowery with inviting aromas of ripe pear and ginger spice. Lively acidity makes this summery wine ideal for cold Thai noodle salad, Ahi poke, or creamy goat cheese. ($18) FieldsFamilyWines.com
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™ CHILL COOLING POUR SPOUT
The perfect companion to your summer sipper, the CHILL cooling pour spout will ensure that your wine stays cool and vibrant. ($20) TrueFabrications.com
WHERE TO FIND THESE WINES & MERCHANDISE:
Pick up all three of these Lodi wines along with the CHILL cooling pour spout from the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 365-0621. Open daily 10 AM-5 PM, LodiWine.com