(CBS13) — Even in a drought, Lodi was named the Wine Region Of the Year by Wine Enthusiast.

The city beat Napa Valley, France, Spain and Italy in a year when California dried up, water was restricted and hail pummeled buds.

“I may have 8 to 16 barrels for one variety. Nebbiolo, Teroldego, which are odd ball Italian varieties, and my absolute favorite is Saint-Gervais,” said Jeremy Trettevik.

He started his own winery just five years ago.

“This is one of the only places in California where you can start up a small winery with not having a huge amount of means, coming in and be able to start something eclectic. It’s a proving ground,” he said.

Lodi’s Wine Grape Commission wasted no time toasting to its new success. It expects big things to come this year.

“I think Lodi is coming into its own and people are starting to recognize it,” said spokesman Stewart Spencer.

The city didn’t apply for the honor. Instead, its wineries and tasting rooms with a personal treatment grabbed attention.

“You’ll find the owners and the growers still working their tasting rooms, so you’ll get a more intimate experience,” Spencer said.

“As a child,” Trettevik said, “this was a small town. There wasn’t a lot going on here.”