- Central Coast:
- Paso Robles: The temperature difference between day and night is huge; the Rhône varieties (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre) are strong and rich in Cabernet; the limestone soil (Western District) is a selling point.
- Santa Barbara County Santa Barbara: Transverse valleys (running east-west, rare in the United States) bring in sea breezes - Sta. Rita Hills (tight sour Pinot Noir/Chardonnay), Santa Maria Valley (Bien Nacido famous garden), warmer Ballard Canyon (Syrah).
- Monterey/Santa Lucia Highlands: Windy and cold, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Lodi: The base camp of old vine Zinfandel, with sandy soil and ungrafted old vines (general knowledge).
- Sierra Foothills: Old gold rush estate, Zinfandel and Rhone varieties.
- Mendocino/Anderson Valley: Cool, Pinot Noir and sparkling wine (Roederer Estate, general knowledge).
AT A GLANCE
01
Paso Robles: The temperature difference between day and night is huge; the Rhône varieties (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre) are strong and rich in Cabernet; the limestone soil (Western District) is a selling point.
02
Santa Barbara County Santa Barbara: Transverse valleys (running east-west, rare in the United States) bring in sea breezes - Sta. Rita Hills (tight sour Pinot Noir/Chardonnay), Santa Maria Valley (Bien Nacido famous garden), warmer Ballard Canyon (Syrah).
03
Monterey/Santa Lucia Highlands: Windy and cold, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.