Appellation trail

Looking for a way to ease the tension of the annual holiday-shopping experience? Drinking might help, particularly if the tipple is a gorgeous, fruit-forward, high-octane Lodi zinfandel. Or perhaps a syrah, cabernet, petite sirah or chardonnay—whatever suites your tastes. The 2006 Winter Wine Wander is a great place to pick up some holiday gifts while you enjoy complimentary wine tastings and light appetizers at participating wineries, each festively decorated for the holiday season. Lodi’s Winter Wine Wander runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $35 per person and a $10 discount is available by donating a new or gently used coat, to benefit News 10’s Coats For Kids program. Admission includes a complimentary wine glass. For more information contact the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center at (209) 365-0621 or visit www.lodiwine.com.