Cesare Mondavi settled in Lodi during the Prohibition era to grow grapes and ship them to Italian families on the East Coast. Robert Mondavi grew up in Lodi and went back years later after establishing his famous Napa Valley winery to make quality wine at an affordable price. In 1979 he purchased the Cherokee Wine Association, a former wine cooperative established just after the repeal of Prohibition, and renamed it after the town of Woodbridge. Today the huge facility produces millions of cases of “quality wines for everyday enjoyment.” These are consumer-friendly wines from a pioneering wine family.

Visiting the facility can be a treat in many ways. Regular tours are available, as well as VIP tasting programs. The white stucco tasting center is right on Woodbridge Road in front of the winery facilities. Inside is a very nice gift shop with assortments of gourmet food items including a fully stocked deli case, pottery, logo clothing, stemware, old family photographs and wine maps on the wall. The hardwood floor and tile-topped tasting counter make for a cozy wine-tasting experience.

The friendly staff greets visitors and is able to pour “Winemaker’s Selection” limited-release wines that are available only in the tasting room and to wine club members. This is an opportunity to taste Syrah, Rosato, Muscat Bianco, Alicante Bouchet, Petite Sirah, Barbera, Viognier and Muscat, as well as a number of vintage Port wines. There is also a Select Vineyard Series of Old-Vine Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. Outside under a pergola are picnic tables shaded by giant elm trees.