California is home to some of the most diverse and unique wine regions in the world. One AVA, in particular, is known for its high-elevation vineyards which produce exceptional wines. That AVA is none other than the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA.
The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is located in the northern portion of the Central Coast of California. It encompasses the mountainous region between San Francisco and Monterey Bay, including parts of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and San Mateo counties. This AVA is known for its rugged terrain, cool maritime climate, and high elevation vineyards.
- Climate: The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA benefits from cool ocean breezes that sweep in from the Pacific Ocean, providing a moderating effect on the climate. This results in warm days and cool nights, ideal conditions for grape growing.
- Terroir: The region’s unique soils, which consist of a mix of sandstone, shale, and loam, contribute to the complexity and character of the wines produced here.
- Elevation: One of the defining features of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is its high-elevation vineyards. Some vineyards in this region are planted at elevations exceeding 2,000 feet above sea level. This elevation not only provides stunning views but also leads to a longer growing season and greater temperature variation, resulting in grapes with more concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.
Notable Wineries
Several notable wineries call the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA home, producing award-winning wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. Some of these wineries include:
- Ridge Vineyards: Known for their iconic Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon, Ridge Vineyards has been producing exceptional wines from high-elevation vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 1962.
- Mount Eden Vineyards: Specializing in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Mount Eden Vineyards is renowned for its estate-grown wines from vineyards planted at elevations of 2,000 feet and above.
- Thomas Fogarty Winery: Situated on Skyline Boulevard, Thomas Fogarty Winery produces cool-climate wines that reflect the terroir of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA.
Wine Styles
The high-elevation vineyards of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA are known for producing wines of exceptional quality and complexity. Some of the most popular wine styles from this region include:
- Chardonnay: The cool climate and high elevation of the Santa Cruz Mountains are ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes. Wines from this region are characterized by their bright acidity, mineral notes, and flavors of citrus and stone fruit.
- Pinot Noir: Another star grape of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Pinot Noir thrives in the region’s diverse microclimates and well-drained soils. These wines exhibit complex aromas, silky tannins, and flavors of red fruit and earth.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon also excel in the high-elevation vineyards of the Santa Cruz Mountains. These wines are known for their structure, depth, and age-worthiness.
Visiting the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to explore high-elevation vineyards and taste exceptional wines, a visit to the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is a must. Here are some tips for planning your visit:
- Winery Tours: Many wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains offer tours and tastings by appointment. Be sure to call ahead to make reservations and check for any special events or experiences.
- Scenic Drives: The winding roads of the Santa Cruz Mountains offer breathtaking views of vineyards, redwood forests, and the Pacific Ocean. Plan for a leisurely drive through the AVA to soak in the beauty of the region.
- Hiking Trails: For the outdoor enthusiast, the Santa Cruz Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails that wind through vineyards and forests. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a glass of wine amidst nature.