South Coast
United States
United States wine regions
About South Coast
Southern California's wine region, centered around Temecula Valley between Los Angeles and San Diego. Despite the warm latitude, the Rainbow Gap, an opening in the coastal mountains, channels marine air inland, creating surprisingly temperate conditions for grape growing.
300–500 m
Elevation range
redwhite
Wine styles
2 AVAs
Avg. slope 4°
United States wine regions
Vintage Ratings
Rating:
5
4
3
2
1
PeakReadyHold
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Outstanding South Coast Vintages
The best recent vintages rated excellent or exceptional.
Red
AVAs
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Terroir & Character
Climate
Warm Mediterranean, moderated by marine influence through the Rainbow Gap and Palomar Mountain corridors. Afternoon breezes cool the vineyards significantly, with temperatures dropping 10-15C from peak afternoon heat. Frost is rare.
Terroir
Decomposed granite and sandy loam over a clay subsoil. The well-drained granitic soils warm quickly in the morning and retain heat, while the clay base provides moisture retention during the dry growing season.
Typical Aromas
eucalyptussage brushblackberryMediterranean herbsocean breeze mineralitychaparral
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