In the Vineyard
The Monterey region is experiencing a viticultural renaissance. It's a renaissance driven by a new appreciation and understanding of the area's varied microclimates Today a new crop of growers and winemakers are producing Monterey wines that expose the creativity of the artist and the humility that comes from letting the soils and climate lead our efforts.
Cima Collina is part of this renaissance.
From the winemaker's perspective the Monterey wine growing region presents the opportunity to grow high caliber grapes of every type. From the north where the ocean creates a cool, windy environment adored by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, to the south Monterey region where warmer weather allows the cultivation of Cabernet and Merlot, we find a palate of Monterey grapes that allow us to indulge our stylistic desires. The Key is identifying the best vineyards from each area.
Hilltop Ranch Vineyard
Located in a well-protected area in the northwestern part of Monterey near the Carmel Valley appellation, our own Hilltop Ranch is one of those new, well-chosen sites designed to get the most from a specific climate and set of soils. Most important is the vineyard's protection from the winds that relentlessly flow off the Pacific Ocean.
Chula Vina Vineyard
Located on the northeastern side of the Salina Valley in the foothills of the Gabilan Mountains, this small vineyard is planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It is protected from the constant winds that cool the area and help make it perfectly suited for these two varieties. Its soils are made primarily of decomposed granite and are well drained. The Pinot Noir is composed of Dijon clones 115, 777, Pommard and a “mystery” clone. The Chardonnay is the Dijon 76 clone.
Lucia Highlands Vineyard
The Lucia Highlands Vineyard sits in the middle of Monterey's best known Pinot Noir producing appellation: the Santa Lucia Highlands. Located slightly above the fog that tends to stay on the valley floor, this vineyards receives wonderful exposure that, combined with the well-drained clay and loose rock glacial soils, conspire to ripen the grapes to perfection.
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