Bien Nacido Vineyards

Bien Nacido Vineyards

Bien Nacido Vineyards is a renowned vineyard located in the Santa Maria Valley AVA of California's Central Coast region. It is known for producing high-quality grapes that are used in the production of premium wines.

History

Bien Nacido Vineyards was established in 1973 by the Miller family. The vineyard was originally planted with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, which thrive in the cool climate and unique soil composition of the Santa Maria Valley. Over the years, additional grape varieties such as Syrah and Pinot Blanc have been planted, expanding the vineyard's offerings.

Vineyard and Terroir

The vineyard spans over 900 acres, with approximately 600 acres dedicated to grape cultivation. The unique terroir of Bien Nacido Vineyards is characterized by its sandy loam soils, which are rich in minerals and provide excellent drainage. The cool maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean, combined with the region's foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, create ideal growing conditions for the grapes.

Grape Varieties

Bien Nacido Vineyards is known for its diverse range of grape varieties. Some of the notable varieties grown in the vineyard include:

• Chardonnay: The Chardonnay grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyards are highly sought after for their vibrant acidity and complex flavors. They are often used in the production of elegant and age-worthy white wines.

• Pinot Noir: The Pinot Noir grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyards are known for their intense aromatics, silky texture, and balanced acidity. They are used in the production of both single-varietal wines and blends.

• Syrah: The Syrah grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyards produce rich and full-bodied wines with dark fruit flavors, spice notes, and a hint of pepper. They are often used in the production of Rhône-style blends.

• Pinot Blanc: The Pinot Blanc grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyards yield crisp and refreshing white wines with delicate floral aromas and flavors of citrus and stone fruits.

Wineries and Producers

Many esteemed wineries and producers source grapes from Bien Nacido Vineyards to create their premium wines. Some of the notable wineries that have used grapes from the vineyard include:

• Au Bon Climat
• Qupé
• Foxen
• Ojai Vineyard
• Solomon Hills

Recognition and Awards

The wines made from grapes sourced from Bien Nacido Vineyards have received numerous accolades and awards over the years. The vineyard's commitment to quality and sustainable farming practices has been recognized by industry experts and wine enthusiasts alike.