Benchmark Wineries
Calera
Calera is the sole vineyard and winery in Mt. Harlan AVA. Founder Josh Jensen purchased the property in 1974 to plant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the cool climate and limestone soil. The wines are highly regarded and the Chardonnay is celebrated for its ability to age.
Chalone
The vineyard features the oldest Chenin Blanc vines in Monterey County. Dick Graff bought the property in the 1960s, revitalizing it and also revolutionizing California winemaking with techniques such as malolactic fermentation and small-barrel fermentation and aging.
DeRose
DeRose Vineyard in Cienega Valley features what may be the oldest Negrette (aka Pinot St. George) vines in the world: They’re at least 120-years-old.
Eden Rift
Eden Rift in Cienega Valley is a new brand from the oldest, continuously producing vineyard in California. Theophile Vaché planted it in 1849. The focus is Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.