Discover One of Santa Lucia Highland’s Top Pinot Noir Producers
Visitors to Monterey County will be pleasantly surprised to discover that there’s more to this California community than what is along the coast. For more than three decades, a thriving wine country has emerged due in large part to the efforts of Hahn Estate and the rise of the Santa Lucia Highlands. A short drive inland from downtown Monterey will reward any wine lover interested in discovering one of the region’s most acclaimed destinations.
Hahn Estate was established in the mid-1970s by Nicolaus (“Nicky”) and Gaby Hahn who discovered their love for California wines during several visits to the area. They eventually purchased two neighboring Monterey County horse and cattle ranches that had been converted to vineyard property, now the current home of Hahn Estate. Sensing the potential of the region, Nicky Hahn became a catalyst for the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) appellation by spearheading efforts in 1988 to establish an American Viticulture Area (AVA) for this wine growing region.
Today Hahn owns the largest share of planted Pinot Noir in the Santa Lucia Highlands with more than 650 vineyard acres that range in elevation from 200 to 1,200 feet and offers a diverse selection of terroir. With a majority of these vineyards planted to 17 different clones of Pinot Noir, Hahn has established itself as one of the finest producers of this popular varietal.
For visitors, this vast collection of estate vineyards provides one of the most gorgeous settings for enjoying wine and learning about the art of winemaking. Standing atop the estate vineyard and visitor’s center, wine lovers will be treated to one of California’s most beautiful panoramic views of wine country and the Salinas Valley.
Hahn Estate offers wine tasting experiences for novices and connoisseurs alike. That includes wine tastings featuring Hahn’s diverse collection, including Hahn Winery, Hahn SLH Estate and Lucienne. Go behind the scene of the Hahn Estate with a winery tour, followed by a leisurely stroll to the demonstration vineyard for an insider’s look at the history and significance of the Santa Lucia Highlands.
For the more adventurous, enjoy a private ATV safari through the vineyards that features a spectacular view at the upper reaches of the Hahn Estate before visiting the wine cellar and finishing with a Reserve Tasting in the VIP room.
New for 2012, Hahn Estate has launched several epicurean tasting programs for those interested in discovering new food and wine pairings. This includes Wine Country Tapas, an assortment of three seasonal small plates created by Estate Chef Brian Overhauser and paired with wines from the Estate. Or, enjoy Fromage Fridays, a complimentary cheese and wine pairing to entice the palate.
Open Monday to Friday from 12 to 5 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
37700 Foothill Road, Soledad, CA 93960
For more information, or to arrange a visit to the winery, go to www.hahnwinery.com or call (831) 678-4555
Download a free Hahn Family Wines phone application from iTunes or Android Market.
