Santa Ynez Valley
APPELLATION: Santa Ynez Valley
The long Santa Ynez Valley is bordered by the Purisima Hills and San Raphael Mountains to the north and the Santa Ynez Mountains to the south. The western section, which has recently become the Santa Rita Hills sub-appellation, benefits from the moderating effects of the Pacific, and is dominated by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. As one follows the Santa Ynez River east, the elevation rises approximately 800 feet. At this higher altitude, in north-south running canyons, vineyards experience higher diurnal temperature fluctuations and a warmer overall climate. In this environment, Syrah is leading the charge for "Rhone Ranger" wineries in the area.