Santa Lucia Highlands - Santa Lucia Mountain Range
Positioned within the breathtaking landscapes of California’s Monterey County lies the Santa Lucia Highlands, a region renowned for producing some of the finest Chardonnay wines in the world. Here, amidst rolling hills and cool coastal breezes, a cadre of esteemed wineries craft exceptional wines that embody the essence of this unique terroir. In this article, we explore the allure of Chardonnay wine grapes and the celebrated wineries of the Santa Lucia Highlands that bring them to life.
The Unmatched Chardonnay Vines of Santa Lucia Highlands
Chardonnay, hailed as the queen of white wine grapes has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and expressive character. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has found a second home in the Santa Lucia Highlands, where its grapes thrive in the region's cool climate and well-drained soils. Chardonnay wines crafted from Santa Lucia Highlands grapes are celebrated for their vibrant acidity, lush texture, and complex flavor profile. From crisp green apple and citrus zest to tropical fruits and subtle hints of vanilla and oak, these wines offer a sensory journey that reflects the unique terroir of the region.
Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyards
Morgan Winery
Morgan Winery knows a thing or two about Chardonnay - it was the first wine that Dan Morgan Lee produced under the Morgan label in 1982, and they have been proudly producing it as a family since! We make a wonderful Chardonnay from our certified organic Double L Vineyard, along with a couple Santa Lucia Highland appellation cuvees - Highland Chardonnay (classically aged in French Oak) and Metallico Un-Oaked Chardonnay (as the name references - aged in stainless steel).
The entire Morgan family is involved in the winery and their Chardonnay in different stages of production - grapes and the finished product.
Santa Lucia Highlands - Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) is a small, premier wine region in Monterey County, California, celebrated for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world. The unique terroir, characterized by cool coastal influences and diverse soils, creates ideal conditions for cultivating this delicate and nuanced grape variety.
The Terroir
Climate: The region benefits from a cool maritime climate, influenced by the proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Morning fog and afternoon breezes help to moderate temperatures, allowing for a longer growing season.
Soil: The soils in SLH Santa Lucia Highlands AVA are decomposed granite and sandy loam to clay loam, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the complex flavors of the Pinot Noir.
Characteristics of SLH Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir from the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA are renowned for its depth, complexity, and vibrant flavors. Typical characteristics include:
Aroma: Rich and enticing aromas of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, often with earthy undertones and hints of spice.
Flavor Profile: Bright red fruit flavors such as cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate, complemented by earthy notes, subtle oak, and a touch of minerality.
Body: Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and smooth tannins, offering a harmonious and elegant drinking experience.
Finish: Long and lingering finish, often with a hint of vanilla or spice from oak aging.
Top Producers of Pinot Noir
Pisoni Vineyards
Signature Wine: Pisoni Estate Pinot Noir - a highly sought-after wine known for its intensity, richness, and complex layers of dark fruit, spice, and earthy notes.
Garys' Vineyard
Signature Wine: Garys' Vineyard Pinot Noir - A collaboration between the Pisoni and Franscioni families, this wine showcases vibrant red fruit, floral notes, and a silky texture.
Roar Wines
Signature Wine: Roar Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir - Crafted with precision, this wine offers bright cherry and raspberry flavors with hints of tea leaves and spice, reflecting the terroir beautifully.
Kosta Browne
Signature Wine: Kosta Browne Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir - Known for its depth and elegance, featuring dark berry fruit, well-integrated oak, and a balanced, lengthy finish.
Siduri Wines
Signature Wine: Siduri Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir- A vibrant and approachable wine with flavors of red cherry, cranberry, and a touch of spice, balanced by bright acidity.
Santa Lucia Highlands Wine
Meet Some of the Winemakers of SLH
Adam Lee - Clarice Wine Company
Bill Brousseau - Testarossa
Charlie Wagner - Mer Soleil Wines
Dean De Korth - Bernardus
Jose Reyes - Cru Winery
Kamee Knutson - Talbott Estate - Sleepy Hollow Vineyard
Kerith Overstreet - Bruliam Wines
Kori Violini -- Kori Wines
Mark Pisoni - Pisoni Vineyards
Marta Kraftzeck - Scheid Family Wines
Matt Revelette - Siduri
Moret Brealynn - Moret Brealynn Wines
Paul Clifton - Hahn Family Wines
Richie Allen - Rombauer Vineyards
Sabrine Rodems - Wrath Wines
Places to Stay
Luxury:
Bernardus Lodge & Spa: Offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and spa services.
Mid-Range:
Hofsas House Hotel: A charming boutique hotel in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Budget
Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas: Affordable and comfortable accommodations in the Salinas valley.
Where to Eat
Dining Options
Fine Dining:
Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel:
Offers a refined dining experience with focus on local ingredients.
Casual Dining:
The Forge in the Forest:
A relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Planning Your Visit to Santa Lucia Highlands
Best Time: The optimal time to visit is from late spring to early fall (April to October), when the weather is pleasant, and vineyards are in full bloom.
Harvest Season: Visiting during the harvest season (to October) provides a unique opportunity to taste and witness the winemaking process.
Getting There - Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
By Car: Santa Lucia Highlands is approximately a two-hour drive south of San Francisco and an hour and a half drive north of San Luis Obispo.
By Plane: The nearest airport is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), about a 40-minute drive from the Highlands.
Wine Tasting Tips
Reservations: Many wineries require reservations, especially on weekends and during harvest season.
Tours: Opt for guided tours to enhance your understanding of the winemaking process.
Tasting Fees: Most wineries charge a tasting fee, which is often waived with the purchase of a bottle.
Activities Beyond Wine Tasting
Hiking: Explore the nearby Pinnacles National Park for stunning rock formations and diverse wildlife.
Monterey Bay Aquarium: A short drive away, this world-class aquarium is a place perfect for families.
17-Mile Drive: Take a scenic drive along the coast with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Travel Tips
Dress in Layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring a jacket.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when wine tasting.
Designated Driver: Ensure you have a designated driver if you plan to visit multiple wineries.
Conclusion
Visiting Santa Lucia Highlands wine and its wineries promises an enriching experience filled with exquisite wines, scenic beauty, and various activities. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual traveler, this region offers something for everyone. Enjoy your visit to Santa Lucia Highlands!
Thanks to Gwen at www.santaluciahightlands.com and the winemakers who contributed photos for this article.