Central Coast
Main grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah
Sub-regions: Paso Robles, Santa Cruz Mountains, Monterey, Santa Barbara
Climate: As a whole California’s climate is considered Mediterranean, but there are plenty of cooling influences from the coast, as well as the altitude of the mountains. That said, further in land it tends to be warmer, so sub regions such as Paso Robles are well known for their production of fantastic Syrah based wines.
You should know... Vineyards situated along the coast here really benefit from the cold, moist air from the sea that (helpfully) creates clouds in the morning, giving the grapes a little respite from the hot Californian sun. These cooling influences make it an ideal place for grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to grow, since they prefer cooler climates.
Sub-regions: Paso Robles, Santa Cruz Mountains, Monterey, Santa Barbara
Climate: As a whole California’s climate is considered Mediterranean, but there are plenty of cooling influences from the coast, as well as the altitude of the mountains. That said, further in land it tends to be warmer, so sub regions such as Paso Robles are well known for their production of fantastic Syrah based wines.
You should know... Vineyards situated along the coast here really benefit from the cold, moist air from the sea that (helpfully) creates clouds in the morning, giving the grapes a little respite from the hot Californian sun. These cooling influences make it an ideal place for grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to grow, since they prefer cooler climates.