The peaks are the first thing you see as you approach Margarita Vineyard—looming testaments to the tectonic forces that shaped the vineyard’s uniquely complex soils. These peaks frame the southwest border of the vineyard just outside the historic town of Santa Margarita between Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo.
While the peaks are the most conspicuous evidence of the area’s geologic heritage, Margarita Vineyard is rich with other sights that exemplify the diversity of its terroir, including rolling hills, dramatic shale outcroppings and soils riddled with petrified oyster shells. Click here to learn more about our unique soils and how they shape our wines.
Margarita Vineyard is also blessed with an extraordinary microclimate. The peaks act as a gateway between the cool marine air to the south and warm inland conditions to the north. The resulting conditions produce grapes of exceptional depth, balance and varietal character.
The surrounding Santa Margarita Ranch boasts a rich and exciting history, one that includes Native Americans, Franciscan missionaries and Mexican rancheros. This history also includes wine grapes, which were first grown on the ranch in 1780.