Cabana Winery offers a distinctive wine-tasting experience that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with traditional winemaking techniques. Established in 2011 by Robert Smerling, a seasoned winemaker with over three decades of experience, Cabana Winery has become a cherished destination for both locals and visitors seeking exceptional wines and a welcoming atmosphere. With an emphasis on quality and a dedication to crafting wines that embody the essence of California’s renowned wine regions, Cabana Winery has truly earned its reputation as one of the best wineries in Lodi, CA.
A Legacy of Excellence
Robert Smerling, the founder of Cabana Winery, has a long and storied career in winemaking. Before establishing Cabana, Robert spent 19 years crafting wines at Renwood Winery, which he founded and named after his wife, Rene. Renwood Winery quickly gained recognition for its high-quality wines, and under Robert’s leadership, it became one of the most respected wineries in California. However, after nearly two decades, Robert sought a new challenge and decided to create a boutique winery that would allow him to oversee every aspect of the winemaking process from start to finish. This vision led to the birth of Cabana Winery in 2011.
At Cabana Winery, Robert and his family set out to create a winery that would produce wines from the finest vineyards in California. They focused on sourcing grapes from regions known for their exceptional quality, including Lodi, Napa, and Amador County. By selecting the best grapes and using traditional winemaking techniques, Robert has been able to craft wines that are both distinctive and approachable. Today, Cabana Winery is known for its diverse selection of handcrafted wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of California’s wine regions.
The Cabana Wine Portfolio
Cabana Winery takes pride in its diverse selection of wines, which includes 18 different varieties sourced from the finest vineyards in Lodi, Napa, and Amador County. The winery’s portfolio is a testament to Robert’s dedication to quality and his passion for winemaking. Each wine is crafted with care, using traditional techniques and modern innovation to bring out the best in each varietal. Whether you prefer red, white, or sweet wines, Cabana Winery has something to offer for every palate.
Signature Wines
- Cabernet Sauvignon: The 2021 harvest produced excellent fruit. Lodi was blessed with warm days and cool nights, allowing the Cabernet grapes to reach 24 brix. Cold soaked for 3 days, the wine was small lot fermented over a period of 10 days with caps punched 3 times daily. The wine has a smooth tannin structure and is well balanced, aged in French oak for 18 months, and blended with Merlot and Petite Verdot to give it a French Meritage style. Loads of caramel, cedar, and mulberries give this wine a spicy aroma and smooth finish. Fresh and bright, with aromas of strawberry, Bing cherry, orange zest, and mulled spices, the palate offers raspberry, pomegranate, pink grapefruit, and dried herbs, with dried red berries and black tea on the dry finish. Pair with grilled salmon. 92 Points – Wine Enthusiast.
- Old Vine Zinfandel: The 2021 harvest is a stellar example of why Lodi can produce incredible wines. Picked at 24 and 26 brix, the grapes were cold soaked for 3 days before a 10-day fermentation in small lots. The wine was aged in American Oak barrels for 16 months, during which secondary fermentation occurred. Filtered and bottled, this wine is ready to drink, with 2% Petit Sirah added for color. It boasts aromas of dried cherry, strawberry cream, and cinnamon spice, with flavors of raspberry, black-cherry cream soda, dried sage, mocha, and a juicy finish. Pair with Buffalo wings. 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast.
- Smerlino Moscato:The 2022 harvest was small, but excellent fruit. Brix at Harvest 21. Cold fermented, whole cluster in stainless steel tanks, naturally capturing the gas which gives this wine its sparkle. Known as our “Italian Breakfast Wine,” it is simple and easy to drink, with aromas of lemon blossoms, jasmine, and tropical notes. Flavors of cantaloupe, floral, and citric tones fill your mouth, leading to a soft but balanced finish that is crisp, delicate, and easy to drink. This wine pairs well with breakfast, lunch, light dinner, or as a great dessert wine. Gold Medal winner at the SF Chronicle.
The Tasting Room Experience
Visitors to Cabana Winery are greeted by a warm and friendly tasting room, designed to make every guest feel like part of the family. The rustic yet modern decor perfectly complements the scenic views outside, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind and enjoy the finer things in life—namely, the wine. The tasting room is the heart of Cabana Winery, where guests can experience the winery’s signature hospitality and sample a selection of handcrafted wines.
The knowledgeable staff at Cabana Winery are passionate about sharing their love for wine, ensuring that your wine-tasting experience is as enjoyable as it is informative. They will gladly walk you through the wines, explaining the nuances and winemaking processes behind each bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or someone just starting their wine journey, the team is adept at making everyone feel at ease while tailoring the experience to your level of knowledge.
Cabana Winery’s tasting room is conveniently located at 710 Beckman Road, Suite D, Lodi, CA 95240. The tasting room is open from 12 PM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday, allowing plenty of time for a leisurely afternoon of wine exploration. Reservations are required, especially for groups or on weekends. The winery also offers group tastings and private events, making it an excellent choice for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gatherings.
A Commitment to Quality
At Cabana Winery, the winemaking process is a meticulous art. The winery ferments its wines in small lots and ages them in French oak barrels, a process that allows the development of rich, complex flavors. Robert Smerling’s extensive experience in winemaking is evident in every bottle, as he carefully blends each batch to create wines that are both balanced and full of character. This commitment to quality has earned Cabana Winery numerous accolades and a loyal following of wine enthusiasts.
The winery’s dedication to quality extends beyond the winemaking process to the vineyard itself. By sourcing grapes from some of California’s most renowned wine regions, Cabana Winery ensures that each wine reflects the unique characteristics of the terroir. The result is a diverse portfolio of wines that are both distinctive and true to their origins. From the bold flavors of the Old Vine Zinfandel to the crisp, refreshing notes of the Chardonnay, each wine is a testament to Cabana Winery’s passion for winemaking.
Join the Cabana Wine Community
Cabana Winery believes that great wine is meant to be shared, and they are committed to creating a sense of community among their guests. Throughout the year, the winery hosts a variety of special events designed to bring people together and celebrate the joy of wine. From wine release parties to seasonal celebrations, there is always something happening at Cabana Winery. These events provide an opportunity for guests to connect with fellow wine lovers, learn more about the winemaking process, and, of course, enjoy some fantastic wine.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, you’ll find something to love at Cabana Winery. The welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and exceptional wines make it a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re stopping by for a tasting, attending a special event, or simply picking up a bottle to enjoy at home, Cabana Winery is dedicated to making your experience memorable.
— Robert Smerling