The Cienega Valley is a tiny viticultural area nestled in the
Gabilan Mountains in San Benito County, 25 miles east of Monterey
Bay.
The Cienega Valley is a tiny viticultural area nestled in the Gabilan Mountains in San Benito County, 25 miles east of Monterey Bay.
The Gabilan range forms a barrier between the cool coastal climate of the Monterey coast and temperate Cienega Valley. To the east is the Diablo Mountain range that protects the valley from the intense summer heat of San Joaquin Valley. Because of this strategic location, classified as Region II, it creates an ideal environment for wine grapes.
With elevations higher than 1,100 feet, the DeRose vineyards enjoy moderate temperatures and one of California’s longest growing seasons. The warm, sunny days help build deep colors and desired sugars; the cool nights ensure the development of ample acids. Mid-morning and late-afternoon breezes further modify the climate.
DeRose has 100 acres of vineyards, including 40 planted before 1900. All of the old vines are dry-farmed in deep sandy-loam soils on terraced hillsides. Situated directly above the San Andreas Fault, they lie in one of the world’s most active earthquake areas.
DeRose Vineyards
9970 Cienega Road
Hollister
(831) 636-9143
Founded in 1988
Appellation: Cienega Valley
Owners: Tony Cedolini, Pat DeRose, Ernie Miller
Tasting by appointment
