Guests sample local wines at the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center. (Dan Evans/News-Sentinel)

Wine and Visitor Center a great starting place

If you've got a question about anything related to Lodi wine, make a beeline for the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center.

The attractive headquarters houses a large wine tasting bar, numerous interactive and educational exhibits on grapegrowing and winemaking, a gift shop and knowledgeable staff.

"It's probably as logical a starting place as there is," said Michael Perry, the center's manager.

Roughly 40,000 people toured the center last year, according to the Lodi Woodbridge Winegrape Commission, which has its headquarters inside.

The building itself was constructed by the adjacent Wine and Roses Inn and opened in 2000. It is leased by the commission. In recent months, the center has begun offering more frequent wine and food pairing classes, along with its general wine education courses.

Local winery owners are scheduled to participate in several "meet the winery" events at the center this spring and summer, said Perry. The weekend events will give the public a chance to personally meet local owners and winemakers, and learn about their wine.

Also at the center, visitors can tour a demonstration vineyard just outside the building, or enjoy regular art exhibits showcased inside.

It's also a great place to pick up a map to Lodi's wine country, learn about the region's emphasis on sustainable viticulture or simply find a good place to stay or dine in or around Lodi.

The Lodi Wine and Visitor Center is located at 2545 W. Turner Road in Lodi.

It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.