Ben Lomond Mountain - Wine Region of the Day
/BEN LOMOND MOUNTAIN
Photo of Ben Lomond Mountain by David Toomey for Qorkz
Ben Lomond Mountain received its designation as an AVA in 1987. Situated on 9,000 acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Ben Lomond is located between the cities of San Jose and Santa Cruz. The mountain was named by Scotsman John Burns in 1851. He built his home and planted a vineyard in what became the community of Bonny Doon.
The soils of the region consist of eroded grantite, limestone, and sandstone and is well draining. The vineyards on Ben Lomond Mountain sit at an elevation of 1800 feet above sea level. This high elevation allows for the vines to sit above the fog line and receive longer exposure to the sun. The mountain is cooled by Pacific Ocean breezes from Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay, allowing the grapes a longer ripening time. This longer time on the vine allows the grapes time to develop stronger tannin structure, balanced acidity, and bright flavors. The region produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.