Chalone Terrain (Back to overview)
The terrain of Chalone is hilly and made of limestone and decomposed granite soils. The AVA is located in the Gavilan Mountain Range in Eastern Monterey County.
Chalone’s Soil and Terrain is Suited for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
The Gabilan Mountain Range is actually an extension of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The AVA is located below the Pinnacles National Park near the town of Soledad. Elevation is about 1800 feet above sea level.
The region’s austere soils cause grape production to be extremely limited and flavorful. Wines are complex with mineral notes from the granite and limestone soils. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc are produced with great success.
Soils are unfertile enough so that foliage trimming is not necessary. Cover crops are often used to attract helpful insects in organic farming. Vineyards grown on the local hillsides are very low yielding.
Monterey County Wineries
benbicais said:
Well put jdelc47. Of course they are famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but I also think their Chenin Blanc is one of the best in California. I've unfortunately never been to one, but I hear their annual shareholder parties on the property are legendary.
Posted 480 days ago.
jdelc47 said:
I've tasted Chalone's wines for several years now and have found the entire line-up to be quintessentially Californian, terrific in terms of QPR, and solid in quality. You'll never be disappointed with any of their wines. Also an awesome location if you like to hike, bike or camp is Pinnacles Monument.
Posted 481 days ago.