San Lucas

San Lucas received its designation as an AVA in 1987. Sitting on 33,920 acres, the region is a sub-appellation of Monterey. The soil of the region is shale and loam, situated on benches and terraces between 200 and 1,200 feet. San Lucas has one of the largest diurnal temperature swings in all of California, with thirty-degree fluctuations being common. The change in temperature makes for a longer growing season and gives the fruit extra time on the vine to ripen and balance its acidity. San Lucas is known for producing excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.