One of California's largest American Viticulture Areas, Paso Robles AVA is located only 6 miles from the Pacific Ocean and is home to 11 districts, each with their own distinct terroir. Today we're highlighting the San Juan Creek, San Miguel, Santa Margarita Ranch, and Templeton Gap Districts.
San Juan Creek District
High temperatures low-rain make the San Juan Creek District ideal for Bordeaux varieties from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon to Cabernet Franc.
Good to Know:
- The San Juan Creek District consists of nearly 26,000 acres with elevations ranging from 980 to 1,600 feet above sea level. Home to both river valleys and foothills, the region is home to San Juan Creek, which follows the San Juan Fault.
- This region is home to primarily loamy sands and gravelly to sandy clay loams, with clays on the older alluvial fans and terraces, which ultimately encourages vigor in its grapevines.
- Located 32 miles from the Pacific, the San Juan Creek District is generally warmer than neighboring regions to the west. This means harvest often occurs earlier than in cooler districts.
Select Wineries & Vineyards
Red Cedar Vineyard (also in Estrella District)
San Miguel District
The San Miguel District is the northwestern-most district in Paso Robles American Viticultural Area and split by the Salinas River with a moderate climate and alluvial soil. The landscape is characterized by a number of creeks and rivers.
Good to Know:
Most vineyards in the San Miguel District are planted 640 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Soils at lower elevations tend to encourage vigor in vines because they retain moisture, while higher elevations reduce vigor. All to say, it's common to see fruit mature a bit earlier than neighboring regions.
Select Wineries & Vineyards
Caparone Winery
San Marcos Creek Vineyard
Locatelli Vineyards & Winery
Santa Margarita Ranch District
Located along the Santa Lucia Mountain Range, the Santa Margarita Ranch district consists of about 18,300 acres. The southmost district within Paso Robles American Viticulture Area (AVA), it's home to deep alluvial soils of varying textures.
Good to Know:
- Santa Margarita Ranch is the only district in Paso Robles AVA not to border another.
- The maritime influences equates to high daytime and low nighttime temperatures.
- Across the valley floor you'll find a number of trees including Sycamore and Oak.
- Average annual rainfall totals 29 inches.
Select Wineries & Vineyards
Ancient Peaks Winery
Templeton Gap District
The coolest district in Paso Robles AVA, the region is profoundly influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean with coastal breezes and plenty of fog. Loamy soil and calcareous rock also set the Templeton Gap District apart.
Good to Know:
- The Templeton Gap District is located below Willow Creek and west of El Pomar.
- Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel are among the many grape varieties that thrive here.
Select Wineries & Vineyards
Castoro Cellars
Peachy Canyon Winery
Wild Horse Winery & Vineyards
Zenaida Cellars
Peachy Canyon Winery
Wild Horse Winery & Vineyards
Zenaida Cellars
California’s top vineyard broker and co-owner of the premier vineyard advisory and farm management company on the Central Coast, Jenny Heinzen is the go-to Realtor for acclaimed wine industry clients from the Daou family and Ken Volk to the Tillmans of Alta Colina and Guillame Fabre of Clos Solene. An in-depth understanding of the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area and beyond sets Jenny apart—along with long-standing relationships and insider expertise.
Looking to buy or sell a Paso Robles vineyard?
Contact Jenny now at (805) 260-0581 or email [email protected].
