Living in California is always exciting! Especially when you have the California wine country scene in your own back yard. There are a plethora of wineries to choose from and awesome restaurants to enjoy. From Sonoma County to Lodi County -- adventures never disappoint.
This past weekend I was able to explore a brand new tasting room -- Hawks Landing -- nestled in the main street scene of this cities downtown. The invitation was subtle and the space was mellow. The experience was not only worth the visit -- but it propelled my tastebuds to a new line up of wines that were much enjoyed.
For those visiting the area -- this is a must stop with a date or with friends or even on a solo adventure. The tasting room offers 6 tastings -- for 10 dollars! I tried the following: (started from the top of the list to the end)
2017 Lodi White Blend -- Peachy and tropical with hints of melon-honeydew.
2017 Sierra Foothills Reserve Sauvignon Blanc -- my palate tasted a higher acidic acid with but yours might differ. Grassy pineapple melon, herbs and citrus.
2017 Lodi Symphony (Perfect for those who love their wines extra sweet) -- very rich and early harvested. Honeysuckle - Mango -Peaches - Summer Fruits - Honey - Floral
Non-vintage California Red Blend (My Favorite) -- Red Fruits - Roses-Vanilla -Oak Cranberry
2016 Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon -- Cherry - Dewey Grass -Plum - Light- Airy
2016 Lodi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - Spices-smoke-toasted Nuts -Dark Fruits.
As a heads up, this place does not offer any cheese pairings nor any edible options. Of which I highly recommend going next door to Cheese Central. Yes, you read that right. They have some incredible options to choose from. The cool thing is that Hawks Landing encourages you to bring it on over and they're totally welcoming about it. I was able to pair their Triple Creme Goat Brie and enjoy their Greek Olive Medley with a freshly baked baguette. No photos available since I could not stop eating it. Totally recommend it.
Did I mention they also have slushies? Indulging in a fresh mango slushy on a hot day in September is not a bad idea. I wouldn't mind it either on super cold day -- just saying.
Exploring Lodi is a pretty much endless experience -- as there are more wineries to enjoy such as Michael David, Klinker Brick Winery and The Dancing Fox.
Next on the list -- was to nourish my appetite with a solid delicious handcrafted meal. I have heard about Rosewood on the same street Hawks Landing is on -- but never actually had the pleasure in indulging on any of their menu offerings.
Let me start off with saying it did not disappoint. My friend and I ventured into this place with no expectations. Fortunately enough for me I had an idea of what their handcrafted dishes were all about since I follow their Chef, Ian Bens, on Instagram who caught my attention with all of his foodie shot "collect-a-grams" and I couldn't resist in giving it a go this past weekend. Ah the magic of Instagram.
We started off with their delicious Roasted Tomato Bisque Soup that kept me craving for more. Next time I'll make sure to skip the cup and go for the bowl.
I'm always optimistic with pizza so I tried their Mary's Organic Chicken Pizza and again I was not disappointed.
My friends perfectly cooked steak with fresh steamed green beans and organic mashed potatoes -- we're an equal delight.
How can one enjoy all of these great dishes and not finish with dessert?
In courtesy of Chef Ian Bens -- dessert was delightful. Thank you!
Pictured above is their Columbia Chocolate Tart with Chocolate Mousse. For all chocolate lovers, this one is for you. The second dessert, was the Summer Berry Streusel Cake -- with a scoop of Vanilla Gelato and Berry Fig Sauce. They were both indulgently delicious. We did not enjoy any wine with these two flavorful pastries -- but did enjoy an espresso that helped level our palate.
Next time you're in Lodi, make these two spots -- your stops as your must visit initiatives and you will not be disappointed. Hopefully the weather will be just as amazing when I was there and hopefully the sun is out with its rays trickling through the trees downtown.