Out of over 100 varieties of wine grapes now grown in Lodi’s exceptional vineyards, Lodi Zinfandel has earned its place as a fundamental part of our region’s history and success. In the 1800s, when California’s Gold Rush began to boom, Zinfandel was one of the first wine grapes available on the west coast. Its hardy nature led to wide plantings across the state, but Lodi and Zinfandel became a natural pairing.
Zinfandel vines thrived amid our rich, sandy soils, ideal climate, and proximity to delta waterways. Many of these historical vineyards survived prohibition and continue to grow with Lodi, deeply rooted in our agricultural past. Today, the Lodi AVA produces 40% of California’s premium Zinfandels and is home to the state’s largest collection of old vine plantings, including our Certified Historic Lizzy James Old Vine Zinfandel vineyard, located in the Mokelumne River Sub-AVA.
Zinfandel vines thrived amid our rich, sandy soils, ideal climate, and proximity to delta waterways. Many of these historical vineyards survived prohibition and continue to grow with Lodi, deeply rooted in our agricultural past.
Harney Lane Winery personally farms and produces our best Zinfandel from three incredibly unique estate vineyards.
Lizzy James Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel
Planted in 1904 and still standing, this vineyard was taken over by the Harney Lane family in 2001 and rehabbed into what has now become our most award-winning wine. These vines showcase an old, gnarly and ultra-delicious example of Lodi terrior.
Claim to fame: Lizzy James carries the name of our children and the ancestors that came before them. It is also a heritage vineyard, standing at over 116 years old.
What it tastes like: Zinfandel fruit notes of dark morello cherry, blackberry and pomegranate jelly; full-bodied with deep concentration, supple and polished, with a careful measure of sweet oak.
Scottsdale Vineyard Zinfandel
Interplanted vines, from ancient to new, create a vineyard full of unique expression. Although Harney Lane farmed Scottsdale for many years prior, we officially acquired it as our own in 2014. We have been able to maintain the rich history and essence of the Scottsdale Vineyard in our finished product. Due to the size and age of this lot, each vintage is made in limited production quantities with stellar reviews.
Claim to fame: Nicknamed the “Blueberry Vineyard” by previous winemakers, this fruit-driven vineyard remains true to its moniker.
What it tastes like: Filled with vibrant blackberry and blueberry jam aromas, Scottsdale offers a punch of pepper, with hints of dried cherry, tart cranberry, dried herbs and sweet baking spices.
Home Ranch Zinfandel
Grown directly beside our tasting room on the Home Ranch, this namesake Zinfandel is a dependably great example of classic Lodi Zinfandel – juicy and bold, yet smooth and easy-drinking with hints of spice.
Claim to fame: A Harney Lane staff pick for best everyday wine. “You can drink this Zin with whatever you’re having for dinner or take it to the party. It’s always a hit!”
What it tastes like: Exudes fragrant aromas of brambly fruit, black cherry, raspberry jam and whispers of white pepper. Harmonious, elegant tannins create a warm, plush mouthfeel and silky finish
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We are always hungry for great wine pairing suggestions! Here we share a few of our favorite recipes to pair with Zinfandel:
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Learn more about California Zinfandels through ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates & Producers), an organization dedicated to Zinfandel preservation, education and appreciation
What Makes Lodi Zinfandel Different? Lodi wine answers here
Read more about California’s Ancient Vines and the effort to save them
Planning a visit? Tour through Lodi’s Old Vine Zinfandel with The Press Guide
Follow Wine Folly’s “Guide to Zinfandel Wine,” complete with more superb pairing ideas
Test your knowledge with this Old Vine Zinfandel quiz
