When people think of sparkling wine, their minds often go straight to Champagne, Prosecco, or perhaps coastal California regions like Carneros or Anderson Valley. But Lodi, California—long celebrated for its old vines, Mediterranean varieties, and sustainably farmed vineyards—is quietly carving out a compelling identity in the world of sparkling wine. What makes Lodi sparkling wines so exciting is not only their quality, but their originality. Here, you’ll find bubbles made from grapes you might never expect, grown in a region shaped by warm days, cooling Delta breezes, and generations of thoughtful farming. The result is sparkling wine with texture, energy, and a true sense of place—proof that California bubbles, when done right, are every bit as captivating as their Old World counterparts.

Lodi has always stood out to me as one of the most approachable and authentic wine regions in the U.S. I had the pleasure of visiting many of these wineries over a decade ago, and the experience left a lasting impression. There’s a grounded, collaborative spirit here—winemakers who aren’t chasing trends, but instead letting grapes, vineyards, and curiosity lead the way. Seeing so many sparkling wines emerge from this region now feels like a natural evolution, and one that deserves attention. I had the pleasure of receiving an amazing mailer of wines from Lodi, with some incredible producers. Below are the wines I think you will really enjoy, and some suggested pairings.

Perlegos 2023 Sparkling Assyrtiko is a perfect example of Lodi’s willingness to think beyond expectations. Assyrtiko, a grape most commonly associated with the volcanic soils of Santorini, thrives here in a completely different yet equally compelling way. Bright, saline-driven acidity anchors the wine, while notes of citrus peel, green apple, and subtle minerality keep it vibrant and refreshing. I paired this sparkling Assyrtiko with lobster bisque topped with shrimp, avocado, and mild sheep’s milk feta, and the combination was seamless. The wine’s acidity cut through the richness of the bisque, while its mineral edge echoed the seafood beautifully, making it a pairing I’ll happily revisit again and again.

Bokisch 2023 Lo Xalet Sparkling reflects both the winery’s Spanish influence and Lodi’s Mediterranean climate. Bokisch Vineyards has long been a champion of Iberian varieties, and this sparkling wine carries that same sense of intention and balance. Fresh and lively, with notes of citrus, orchard fruit, and a subtle herbal lift, it feels both celebratory and food-friendly. A natural pairing would be grilled seafood—think prawns or calamari—or a simple tapas-style spread with Marcona almonds, olives, and shaved Manchego to highlight the wine’s bright, savory undertones.

Klinker Brick Sparkling Albariño is another standout that reinforces just how well certain coastal-inspired grapes perform in Lodi. Albariño’s naturally high acidity and aromatic profile make it an excellent candidate for sparkling wine, and this bottling delivers with lifted floral notes, stone fruit, and a crisp, refreshing finish. This is a sparkling wine that begs for sunshine and shared plates—pair it with oysters, ceviche, or a citrus-forward salad with fresh herbs and olive oil for an effortlessly vibrant match.

LVVR Brut brings a more classic sparkling expression into the mix while still retaining Lodi’s signature warmth and generosity. Clean, elegant, and balanced, this Brut offers fine bubbles, bright apple and pear notes, and a polished finish that makes it incredibly versatile. It’s the kind of sparkling wine that works just as well for a casual aperitif as it does alongside brunch. I’d love to see this paired with fried chicken, soft scrambled eggs with crème fraîche, or even a simple charcuterie board where the wine’s structure can shine.

Nostra Vita 2020 Blanc de Blanc Serendipity leans into finesse and patience, showcasing what extended aging and thoughtful winemaking can bring to Lodi sparkling wine. They state that wine is not just a beverage, it’s an experience and thats exactly what this wine is. Made entirely from Chardonnay, this Blanc de Blanc offers layers of toasted brioche, lemon curd, and subtle nuttiness, all wrapped in a beautifully persistent mousse. This is a wine that deserves a moment—and a dish to match. Pair it with seared scallops, a creamy risotto, or a classic roast chicken to let its depth and elegance fully unfold.

Peltier 2022 The Gala Brut rounds out the lineup with a celebratory, crowd-pleasing style that still maintains precision and balance. Fresh citrus, hints of white peach, and a clean, dry finish make this an easy wine to love, whether you’re opening it for a special occasion or a spontaneous weeknight toast. I imagine it alongside goat cheese crostini, sushi, or even popcorn finished with high-quality olive oil and a pinch of sea salt—proof that great sparkling wine doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable.

What’s so exciting about this moment for Lodi is the sheer range of sparkling wines coming out of the region—different grapes, different styles, and different philosophies, all coexisting and thriving. It’s a reminder that Lodi is far more than a supporting player in California wine; it’s a region driven by innovation, sustainability, and a deep respect for the vineyard. As more producers embrace sparkling wine here, we’re seeing just how expressive and delicious California bubbles can be when they’re rooted in place and made with intention. Lodi continues to surprise me, inspire me, and—quite frankly—pull me back. I’m more than ready for a return trip, glass in hand. Cheers to the bubbles of Lodi, and to a region that continues to surprise, inspire, and sparkle.

Always remember, eat what you like and drink what you love. Please pair responsibly!