When most people think of wineries, they picture rolling hills, remote estates, and winding country roads. But a new wave of winemakers is flipping that script—bringing the vineyard experience right into the heart of the city. Urban wineries are on the rise, and Cabana Winery in Lodi, California, is leading the charge.
Urban wineries are exactly what they sound like—wineries located in urban or industrial areas rather than in the middle of sprawling vineyards. These spaces allow winemakers to focus entirely on the craft of winemaking without the need to grow their own grapes on-site. Instead, they source high-quality fruit from nearby vineyards and bring it to their city-based facilities to be crushed, fermented, aged, and bottled. It’s a model that combines accessibility with innovation, and it’s opening up the wine world to a whole new generation of enthusiasts.
Cabana Winery, located in the heart of Lodi’s wine region, is a perfect example of this movement done right. Founded by veteran winemaker Robert Smerling, Cabana brings decades of experience to its compact, efficient, and award-winning operation. The winery sources grapes from top vineyards across Napa Valley, Sonoma, Amador, and of course, Lodi itself—allowing them to maintain complete control over the quality of their wines while staying true to the region’s rich viticultural heritage.
What makes Cabana stand out isn’t just the quality of the wine—it’s the atmosphere. The winery’s tasting room offers a modern, approachable, and relaxed vibe that appeals to casual sippers and serious wine lovers alike. There’s no long drive, no appointment necessary, and no intimidating wine jargon. Instead, visitors are greeted by a welcoming team ready to pour premium wines and share the stories behind each bottle. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite hangout or a traveler passing through Lodi, Cabana makes it easy to enjoy the fruits of the region without ever leaving town.
Cabana Winery’s presence also plays a key role in the revitalization of urban spaces in Lodi. By turning an industrial setting into a community-oriented tasting room and production facility, they’re breathing new life into the city while helping redefine what a winery experience can be. It’s not just about tradition anymore—it’s about accessibility, creativity, and a focus on the customer experience.
As the popularity of urban wineries continues to grow, Cabana remains a standout example of how great wine doesn’t have to come from a castle on a hill. Sometimes, it’s made just down the street—by people who love the craft, respect the land, and take pride in every glass they pour.