Wine Growing
Due in part to the San Lucas Vineyard’s proximity to the Monterey Bay and warmer weather to the south, the vineyard’s climate is designated “Warm Region 2” and often experiences mornings of 50ºF and midday temperatures of 110ºF – a diurnal swing of 60ºF in a matter of a few hours. As a result of vineyard location, multiple varietals such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon thrive with unprecedented success. Johnson ensures that each grape varietal is planted with microclimate accuracy so the fruit can develop fully, giving Winemaker Larry Gomez an excellent head start.
All grape varietals grown at San Lucas Vineyard are picked according to temperature, sugar level and pH to ensure a successful transition from vine to bottle. White grape varietals such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are picked at night when temperatures reach approximately 50 degrees to prevent premature fermentation that can occur when harvested in the warm mid-day sun. Red grape varietals such as Merlot and Syrah are also picked at night. However, when harvest occurs later in the season, close to October, the vineyard staff can pick red grape varietals in the cooler daytime temperatures.
