Grapes

Grapes are one of the most celebrated crops coming out of SJC, especially in Lodi, Galt, and vineyards in between. But while we all love a crisp sauvignon blanc or spicy sangiovese, not all of the grapes grown here ever make it into your glass. The focus is on more than vino, with many farms growing a variety of flavorful grapes made for the table, however wine grapes are still high on the priority list.

Grape vineyards date back to the 1850s in the Lodi AVA, which is one reason why we can claim old vine zinfandels amongst our varietals. They first grew alongside riverbanks, which is still true of some vineyards today—just look at Mokelumne Hill, a sub-AVA of Lodi.

J&M farms has old vine zinfandel, chardonnay, and albariño in its portfolio, while Co-Owner Matt Manna harvests several other varietals with his family businesses, Acampo Ag Service and Manna Ranch. “His wheelhouse has been the wine grape side of things in all aspects,” his partner, Joe, says.

Sweet Facts About Grapes

The Lodi AVA boasts seven sub-AVAs.

More than 85 wineries exist in the LodiWoodbridge area.

The region yields more than 600,000 tons of grapes on an average year, making it a higher producer than Napa and Sonoma combined.

Most wine grapes don’t taste great.

There are around 10,000 varieties of grapes, including table grapes and wine grapes.

Grapes have been linked to supporting eye health and heart health as well as aiding the body in managing blood sugar, boosting brain power, and keeping you healthy thanks to all of the included antioxidants.

Black and red grapes are considered the “healthiest” grapes to consume.

Sweet Facts About Cherries

Cherries are technically a type of stone fruit.

A typical cherry season in the Central Valley lasts from mid-May to early June.

Cherries are the last trees to bloom and the first to harvest amongst popular fruits.

The Linden Cherry Festival was held on May 20 this year at Linden Elementary school.

Cherries are nutrientdense, rich in antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties, can boost exercise recovery, and can improve heart health, symptoms associated with gout and arthritis, and improve sleep quality.