By Nora Heston Tarte
The name says it all at Macchia, where the moniker itself means “the spot” in Italian. Here, it’s hard to turn down the parade of appropriately named wines, including a “Vivacious” 2012 Nebbiolo—a popular choice of famous Italian variety normally sourced from the Piedmont region, and “Delicious” 2013 Barbera, a food-friendly wine brought to California by early Italian immigrants.
In Lodi, zinfandels reign superior, but the Macchia menu isn’t exclusive to these favored flavors; Italian varietals are also aplenty. “One of our claims to fame is our bold, award-winning red wines,” shares Lani Holdener, co-owner of Macchia Winery. Whether you’re keen on petite sirah or prefer a port, there’s a wine here perfect for your taste buds—and each one is stamped with an eye-catching title that will pull you in, although the aromas should achieve that on their own. And while zins and other reds have been the winery’s focus, Macchia will release its first white wine in April.
So what’s the secret of these magical elixirs? The husband-wife team of Tim and Lani Holdener have used their expertise in the Lodi appellation to uncover the hottest spots to source their grapes since opening in this region in 2001, all while operating under the motto “it’s all about the grape,” more specifically stating that while wine technology changes, the quality of the fruit matters most. The owners’ selective process of choosing small lots of the finest grapes possible from California’s most prestigious wine growing regions has led to prized sips that keep guests coming back for more. From the Lindsteadt Vineyard to The Original Grandpere Vineyard, one of the oldest in the United States, the Amador Valley is responsible for many of the flavor profiles. From spicy, “Adventurous” zinfandel to vibrant, fruity barbera that lives up to its “Righteous” label, every patron can find a wine that satisfies his or her predilection.
The true draw (aside from the wine) is the no-fuss atmosphere, a far cry from other wine regions that think uppity spells taste. “We offer a relaxed, enjoyable environment,” Lani says of the outdoor patio and subsequent grounds that create a kickback atmosphere for guests to stay and play. Pack a picnic and pick varietals to pair with your basket of goods under the flowering fruit trees, or hang around to play horseshoe or bocce ball with your friends.
So, pull up a chair, grab a blanket or snag a spot at the bar to partake in some of the finest tasting the Lodi Appellation has to offer. Like what you try? Wine lovers are encouraged to join Macchia’s Club Red, which promises to keep your wine cabinet stocked with quarterly shipments and discounts. And while you’re at it, check out the winery’s stash of exclusive bottles that cannot be purchased anywhere else. Each weekend, the grounds host several visitors and lounging is optimal under mature shade trees. On February 13-14, the winery will pour for Lodi’s Wine & Chocolate weekend, serving its famous meatballs in a habanero, chocolate port reduction sauce to compliment barrel tasting and live music. On President’s Day (Feb. 15) Dejay Mullins will entertain guests on the saxophone.
Visit:
Macchia Winery
7099 E. Peltier Rd., Acampo
(209) 333-2600
MacchiaWines.com