Viticulture Association of the Santa Cruz Mountains

The vineyards of the Santa Cruz Mountains ... a perfect blending of climate, terroir and natural beauty

The following characteristics combine to produce superior grapes, resulting in distinctive, award winning wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation:

Unique Mountain Terroir
Ocean Influence
Temperate Climate
Hands-on, Family Owned
Sustainable Practices

Unique Mountain Terroir

Terroir, the 'taste of earth', is a French word that most closely addresses the characteristics imparted to wine by local topography, soil and climate - the total natural environment. In the Santa Cruz Mountains, these come together to produce some of the finest winegrapes in California, and ultimately, some of the finest wines.

The Santa Cruz Mountains appellation is defined primarily by elevation (an elevation minimum ranging from 400' to 800' depending on location--see TTB Definition above) from Woodside to Corralitos.

Ocean Influence

The central coast of California is our backyard. Many of our vineyards have great views of the ocean, but all benefit from a cooling influence during the warm growing season.

The Santa Cruz Mountain vineyards are almost unique among California vineyards in being this close to the ocean. Visitors can tour our vineyards and wineries, and also enjoy a walk on the beach!

Temperate Climate

Early springtime warm weather typically encourages early bud break, with harvest beginning in mid-September. Some vineyards harvest as late as late October. This results in a long 'hang time', creating grapes with complex flavors. and intensity, as well as higher levels of acidity, important to the balanced structure of the wine. It also creates a wine that can enhance a meal when paired with complementary flavors in food.

In the all-important growing season, the fog rolls in during the elate afternoon or early evening; the sun generally burns it off the next morning, and the grapes ripen fully in the not-too-hot sun.

Hands-on, Family Owned

Almost all the vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains are family owned and run; many have been in their families for generations. There is a special dedication to personal attention and hard work, which results in grapes of high quality, producing superior wines.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is an agricultural approach that recognizes the responsibilities of the farmer as a good citizen of the land and the community. For the winegrape grower, it comprises the wide range of practices involved in producing quality fruit - everything from employee relations to pruning the vines, and avoiding harmful chemicals.

The grape growers of the Santa Cruz Mountains are dedicated to practicing sustainable agriculture. It's good for people, it's good for business, and it's good for the grapes and the wine.