Soil from the
Sierras
Lodi is a diverse wine-producing region formed millions of
years ago through geological events and alluvial waters. Two major rivers that
originate in the Sierra Nevada feed Lodi - the Mokelumne and the Cosumnes.
These rivers have brought soils rich in minerals that lend distinctive flavors
to the wines of Lodi.
A few of the more dominant soils are described below.
Tokay Fine Sandy
Loam
The Tokay Fine Sandy Loam is the home to the majority of Lodi's
fifty to one hundred year old Zinfandel vines. The well-drained sandy soil
allows the vines to slowly draw the water down over the course of the season
producing very uniform and balanced growth. The grapevine root pest phyloxera
does very poorly in this sandy soil, sparing many of the old own-rooted
Zinfandel vines. This soil also sits directly in the path of the cool coastal
breeze influence, which imparts excellent color an intense fruit flavors in the
finished wines.
Tuscan Stony
Loam
This well-drained gravelly soil is found in the rolling hills
on the eastern side of the Lodi Wine Region. Full of pebbles and cobbles,
fertility an available water capacity are very low allowing the winegrower to
precisely administer irrigation to the vines at the stage that most benefit
wine quality. The vines can be stressed for water late in the spring and early
in the summer intensifying the flavor and color of the fruit. Cover crops are
commonly grown between the vines to prevent erosion.
San Joaquin
Loam
This moderately well drained soil has a clay rocklike layer.
The available water-holding capacity is low, and roots must find their way
through the cracks in the clay layer. The naturally low to moderate fertility
controls vigor and keeps the vines small producing grapes with excellent
concentration of flavors. The tendency of the soil to dry out by early summer
controls the vines through the latter part of the growing season.
Archerdale Clay
Loam
This deep well-drained rich soil has a high available
water-holding capacity. The natural fertility of this soil lends it very well
to sustainable farming practices. Very little water or fertilizer is required
to maintain healthy vines in this soil. Cover crops are frequently planted to
balance the vines and provide habitat for native species. |
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