One Bottle at a Time Uncorking Lodi’s Sparkling Wine Scene

By Suzanne Ledbetter

Festive. Social. Celebratory! This month we are talking about everyone’s favorite drink to raise a glass with—sparkling wine! So, with New Year’s celebrations and Valentine’s Day on the horizon, I’m sharing the scoop on some of Lodi’s tastiest sparkling wines. With bottles ranging from $24 to $55, the Lodi wine region is famous for producing world class wines that won’t break the bank. Check out my five picks below and grab a few bottles for your next gathering! Because life is better with bubbles!

2016 Sparkling Grenache Blanc, Acquiesce
$55

Where to Buy: AcquiesceVineyards.com/Wines

This is some seriously spectacular sparkling wine! One of Acquiesce’s newest offerings, this blanc de blanc bubbly was made using the traditional Methode Champenoise and is as crisp as it is delicious. It is minerally driven with aromas of green apple, stone fruit, and brioche. They had me at brioche.

The Gala Sparkling Wine, Peltier Winery
$35

Where to Buy: Peltier Winery and Vineyards, 22150 N. Kennefick Rd., Acampo

Fit for any celebration, this bottle of bubbles is appropriately labeled “The Gala”, a beautiful blush sparkling wine made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. Made in the traditional Methode Champenoise, the Gala is refreshing, fruity, and will linger on your palate. This is the go-to bottle to pair with those oysters you will be enjoying on Valentine’s Day.

Estate Crush, 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Sparkling Wine
$26

Where to Buy: 2 W. Lockeford St., Lodi

Made at Lodi’s premier custom crush facility, Estate Crush. Winemaker Bob Colarossi decided to do something different with their sparkling wine. The only Sauvignon Blanc in the bunch, the wine is crisp and light with balanced acidity. This bottle goes down easy—maybe too easy. Pick up an Edible Arrangement for Valentine’s Day, pair it with this sparkling wine, and call it a win!

Jeremy, Grenache Sparkling, Tamura Vineyard
$32

Where to Buy: 6 W. Pine St., Lodi

Jeremy Wine Co. specializes in small lot productions like this bottle of sparkling wine made from 100 percent Grenache. Aged in the traditional Methode Champenoise, the bubbles yield aromas of fresh pear, green apple, and subtle fruit. But it’s the hint of nutty toast and its soft, creamy finish that will leave you wanting more!

LVVR Sparkling Brut
$24

Where to Buy: 12470 Locke Rd., Suite 700 Lockeford

Crafted by one of Lodi’s sparkling wine pioneers, Eric Donaldson crafts his wine in the Methode Champenoise style. Made exclusively from all Lodi AVA fruit, the wine is off-dry with hints of green apple and grapefruit and has a crisp finish and balanced acidity. What does all this mean? All your friends are going to love this bottle!