It's amazing what happens when you ask questions! "What's special about Lodi?" Depending on whom you ask, often the response, said with a smile is ... "Stuck in Lodi again!" The reference to the 1969 tune on the Creedence Clearwater Revival album "Green River" has come to suggest the idea of being somewhere you'd just as soon not be.
In the waning years of flower power ... that may have been true ... but since the song's author, John Fogerty, admitted to having never been to Lodi when he wrote the song, the lyrics just reflect a fantasy tale born of a great melody and filling space on a record release. The truth of Lodi, on the other hand is a far different matter:
The Grapes of Lodi
At about the time of CCR tune's popularity, a new and wonderful "happening" was in process in Lodi. While parts of the nation decried the "sins" of the flower generation, Lodi began focusing on its own "zins." Fred Danielson, one of the hosts at the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center says "Lodi is the Zinfandel capitol of the world." Production of over 40% of the world's zinfandel happens on part of the 100,000 acres of wine grape cultivation. "It's not bragging," Danielson continues "It's a fact!" Look for lots of other details at www.lodiwine.com.
Table grapes too have a history in Lodi, but they have become far overshadowed by their appellation cousins. Two principal varieties of tables, Thompson Seedless and Tokay Flames are still cultivated in volume in the area. The mascot name of Lodi High School is taken from the latter ... "Go Flames!"
So, today "being stuck in Lodi" means .... Being in a community that excels in Zinfandel, but is also number one domestic producer of Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc may not be exactly "stuck" - but rather "lucky!" Supporting the 750 grape growers of the sphere of Lodi's influence are 80 wineries, 45 tasting rooms and countless social and entertainment opportunities.
Next time: The Real Dirt on Lodi
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