Our 156 acres press up against the Santa Lucia Range, giving the site great diversity of elevation, aspect and soil. Previously dry farmed barley, the estate is nestled into the Templeton Gap, an East/West corridor where the marine layer can reach the inland valleys. As a result we receive large diurnal temperature swings without high moisture pressure, giving us a near perfect growing climate.

The original 96-acres were designed and planted by John Crossland of Beckstoffer fame. Later, Justin Smith of Saxum came on to consult with Aron Nevarez, our Vineyard Manager. Since 2005, Aron has had complete control of all vineyard operations, including the designing and planting of the 12 acres surrounding the winery. He is committed to environmentally friendly farming practices, using only sustainable inputs and minimal irrigation. The belief that timliness is the key to sustainable farming allows him to proactively approach any issue before it would require chemical intervention. Aron’s hands-on approach and years of experience with the vineyard allow him to produce the quality fruit Denner is known for harvest after harvest.