Central California is more than a strip of farmland connecting Southern California’s beaches to Northern California’s tech hubs. From Bakersfield to Redding, you’ll find thousands of family farms growing over half of the nation’s fresh produce and 80% of California’s winegrapes, as well as producing over 90% of all California dairy products! If anyone thinks Hollywood and Silicon Valley outshine acres of farmland, stretching as far as the eye can see – well, they’ve never tasted the incredible agricultural bounty that Central California has to offer.
Central Valley farmers grow over 300 different fruits, vegetables and nuts. In fact, nineteen of these are grown only in the Golden State! Next time you drive through Central California, don’t just admire the orchards and vineyards. Get a true taste of the Central Valley at these farmstands, wineries and cafés!
Citrus
Step aside, Florida. We’ll give you the orange juice game, but California grows more fresh citrus than any other state! Orange Works Café uses freshly squeezed juice from locally grown citrus to make their iconic Orange Ice Cream. The recipe is top secret, but if you imagine soft serve ice cream imbued with a citrusy zing, you’re on the right track!
Olive Oil
Californians take olive oil very seriously – especially extra virgin olive oil! Before an olive oil can be labeled “extra virgin”, it must pass a series of strict tests to assess purity and flavor. When you’re ready to explore California olive oil, head to Olive Crush Farms in Lodi. This charming store carries their eponymous brand and a well curated selection of olive oil made by Central Valley producers.
Prunes
All prunes are dried plums, but not just any plums make the cut to become prunes! The majority of California prune growers choose Petit d’Agen plums. This special variety has the perfect amount of sugar, allowing it to fully ripen on the tree without fermenting. The result is undeniable – irresistibly plump, perfectly sweetened prunes.
If you’re a fan of California prunes, you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store at the Sunsweet Growers Store. French Kisses (chocolate-covered prunes) and Elderberry Probiotic Prunes are fan faves. If you’ve never tasted a prune, these two options are a great place to start!
Walnuts
Did you know that 99% of domestically produced walnuts are grown in Central California? Domestically grown nuts are sometimes more expensive than their international counterparts. That’s because California walnuts are sustainably grown – and grown with care by local farmers. When you buy California walnuts, you’re not just buying the freshest, highest quality walnuts available, you’re supporting small family farms. Head to Sierra Nut House to taste the California difference!
Winegrapes
The word “wine country” likely conjures up images of sprawling Napa estates or the Central Coast’s rolling hills. However, the vast majority of California’s winegrapes are actually grown in the Central Valley! Central California wineries are known for their laid back, relaxed vibe – and for excellent, well-priced wines. There are hundreds to choose from, but these three standouts are among our favorites: Michael David, Acquiesce and San Joaquin Wine Co.
Cherries
It’s easy to understand the fascination with cherries – both the gorgeous pink blooms that emerge in early spring and the sinfully sweet fruit that’s in season from mid-May through early June. Cherries are grown sporadically throughout the Central Valley. However, the Lodi area boasts the majority of the Golden State’s cherry orchards. To experience the magic of California’s cherry season, head to Lodi to visit a u-pick farm or stop by Phillip’s Farms Bakery for a slice of their homemade cherry pie!
Raisins
Remember the California Raisins – the dancing claymation creations that took the Golden State by storm in the 80s? If you’re under the age of 40, you might not… and while dancing raisins may be lost to history, raisins have been and remain an incredibly important part of California agriculture! Virtually all of the nation’s raisins are grown in the Central Valley – and the Sun Maid Market is one of our favorite places to stock up on this classic California snack!
Almonds
There are only a few places in the entire world where almonds thrive – and California’s Central Valley is one of them! In fact, our farmers are responsible for a whopping 80% of the world’s supply! Maisie Jane’s is our go-to for all things almond – offering up a fun mix of flavored and natural almonds, chocolate-covered nuts, creamy almond butters and more!
