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Located south of Monterey, overlooking the Salinas Valley, the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) region is one of the most sought-after terroirs in California for lovers of characterful Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
An exceptional maritime climate
The major asset of Santa Lucia Highlands is the wind.
Every morning, the cold Pacific mist rises up the valley through a corridor effect, followed in the afternoon by strong breezes that cool the vines perched on the mountainside. The result: sunny but tempered days, and above all a large day/night temperature range that allows for slow maturation, natural concentration of aromas, and preserved acidity.
Well-drained soils of granitic and sandy origin
The east-facing slopes, facing the rising sun, rest on poor and rocky soils, composed of decomposed granite, limestone, and sand. This perfect drainage and low soil fertility force the vine to dive deep, producing grapes with thick skins, rich in substance and structure.
Pinot Noir & Chardonnay: tension and intensity
The region is a sanctuary for Pinot Noir, which finds a unique expression here:
- More intense than in Burgundy
- Fresher and more structured than in other Californian regions
The wines combine:
vibrant red fruits (raspberry, morello cherry),
floral notes (violet, peony),
saline minerality and sometimes a smoky frame.
The Chardonnay, on the other hand, combines discreet richness, calcareous tension, and citrus aromas, with often subtle aging, without excessive wood.
Sought-after style: controlled power & precision
What makes Santa Lucia Highlands unique is its ability to produce wines with controlled solar power, thanks to a rare natural freshness in California.
The wines are often described as structured yet elegant, with a saline length and a racy minerality.
Iconic producers:
Pisoni Vineyards (icon of Californian Pinot)
Roar Wines
Morgan Winery
Lucia Vineyards
Kosta Browne (SLH cuvées)
Testarossa
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