Our Vineyards
In 1996, Château Julien Wine Estate started a new venture with a partnership in an "Estate Vineyard" in South Monterey County's Lockwood Valley. Over 25% of the 246-acre vineyard is planted with the winery's flagship varietal, Merlot. Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are also grown in addition to experimental blocks of Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Syrah, Pinot Grigio, Marsanne, Malbec and Cabernet Franc.
Located in a unique coastal valley on the western Santa Lucia Mountain Range, the vineyard sits at a 980 foot elevation and is a short 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The vineyard's slight elevation, diurnal temperature variations and ideal gravely, loam soil result in wines with intense varietal characteristics unique to Monterey County. With a slightly warmer climate, the Estate Vineyard continues to benefit from coastal influences and Monterey County's long growing season.
The Appellation
The Monterey County AVA (American Viticultural Area) boasts over 45,000 acres of vineyards, making it one of the largest vinifera grape-growing regions in California. Monterey County's wine region is bound by the Monterey Bay, California's coastal mountain range, and extends into the Carmel and Salinas Valleys. The County's long growing season and varied climate result in seven different unique AVAs that span throughout the 80 mile-long valley. Grapes grown in Monterey County are characterized by their intense varietal flavor and balance of sugar to acid.
