Welcome to Lodi Wine Country: No Reservations Required

There’s something happening in Lodi, and we want you to be a part of it.

Wine country has changed. Over the past few years, visiting wineries has become increasingly expensive, exclusive, and (let's be honest) a little intimidating. Average tasting fees have more than doubled since 2012. Walk-in visits and wine bar tastings have nearly disappeared, becoming increasingly rare in most regions. 

And for many wine lovers, especially those just beginning their journey, this shift has made wine country feel less welcoming and more out of reach. That's not what wine is supposed to be about.

Getting Back to What Matters

Here in Lodi, we've been paying attention. Wine should bring people together, not push them away. We've always believed that great wine starts in the vineyard and ends at the table, with real people sharing real moments. That doesn't require fancy fees or exclusive access.

That's why we're launching No Reservations: not just a campaign, but a promise.

Lodi is here to remind everyone that wine country can still be welcoming, accessible, and focused on what truly matters: discovering exceptional wines and connecting with the people who make them.

What "No Reservations" Really Means

No Reservations is about genuine hospitality, approachability, and welcoming everyone to experience what we've built over generations. Lodi is a multi-generational farming community rooted in agriculture, grounded in hard work, and proud to make incredible wine for everyone to enjoy.

Here's what you'll find in Lodi:

Real Accessibility

Lodi wine country features more than 60 tasting rooms, many of which welcome drop-in visitors, with no appointment needed. (Note: It’s always smart to call ahead if you’ve got a large group or special occasion, regardless of the tasting room’s general policies!)

Our average tasting fee is $16, and it's often waived when you buy a bottle. Speaking of bottles, our award-winning wines typically range from $22 to $52, so you can explore without breaking the bank.

Incredible Diversity

Lodi grows more than 130 different grape varieties – more than any other region in the United States. 

From bright and zippy Albariño to lucious, full-bodied Zinfandel, Lodi produces something for everyone. There’s always a new vintage or varietal to discover in this playground for wine adventurers.

Genuine Hospitality

Research shows that nearly 60% of wine buyers cite personal connection with winery owners or representatives as a key reason they purchase. 

In Lodi, those connections aren't manufactured. They're real. You're likely to meet the winemaker, the vineyard manager, or the family who's been farming this land for generations. The welcome is authentic because the people are.

Options for Everyone

Whether you're looking for a casual afternoon at a wine bar, a curated food and wine pairing experience, a vineyard tour, or an educational tasting, Lodi delivers. 

Bring your kids. Bring your dog. Come solo, with friends, or with the whole family. We accommodate different styles because we believe wine should fit into your life, not the other way around.

Where to Stay, What to Expect

Photo Credit: Appellation Lodi – Wine & Roses Resort and Spa

Lodi's accommodations match the region's inclusive spirit. Stay at the luxurious Appellation Lodi Wine & Roses Resort and Spa, helmed by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer. Book a room at a mid-range hotel from trusted names like Hilton, IHG, or Marriott. Or choose a cozy local B&B or cottage. Whatever fits your style and budget, you'll find options here.

And don't miss the Lodi Wine Visitor Center. Recently crowned the region's "coolest tasting room" by the San Francisco Chronicle, it's dedicated exclusively to wines made from Lodi grapes and offers an ideal introduction to the breadth and quality of what our region produces.

Come As You Are

The heart of No Reservations is simple: come as you are, stay as long as you like, and discover Lodi wines that surprise and delight you.

This is wine country the way it should be. It's focused on discovery, driven by genuine hospitality, and committed to making sure everyone feels welcome. Whether you're a seasoned collector or someone who just enjoys a good glass with dinner, there's a place for you here.

The doors are open. The wines are exceptional. And the welcome is real.

Ready to explore Lodi wine country? Start planning your visit here.