Tondré Grapefield and the Santa Lucia Highlands Terroir

In 1997, Tondré Grapefield was planted on 6 ½ acres. It has grown to 104 acres and rests in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highland Appellation, Monterey County.

Joe Alarid currently farms a wide range of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay clones to ensure that there is a medley of fruit and sufficient Tondré pedigree character to suit vintner stylistic preferences.  He also grows a very limited amount of Syrah and Riesling.  Included in the broad spectrum of Pinot Noir plantings are clones 115, Pommard 4, 777, 943, 667, 828 and Swan.  Chardonnay clones include 76, 96, 543 and New York.

Vignerons regard the Santa Lucia Highlands Appellation as one of the crown jewels of California agriculture for Pinot and Chardonnay grapes.  The importance and interdependence of combining grower and vintner is omnipresent for wine quality assurance and protection of a vineyard designation vintage by vintage.  Joe carefully chooses vignerons to ensure that wines made from Tondré Grapefield fruit are among the premier wines of the Santa Lucia Highland appellation.

This distinguished appellation has protruding, southeast-facing slopes, strong maritime influences from Monterey Bay and ancient glacial soils consisting of decomposed granite, gravel and sandy loam. The unique location of Tondré Grapefield allows the grapes to have an extended “hang time”, meaning more sunlight on the vine, more grape ripening and sufficient cool-down in the evening to firm up the fruit’s natural acidity. Tondré Grapefield vines have deep soil penetration and mineral extraction giving the grapes distinctively intense flavor.

Hands On Vineyard Management

Growing up as a vegetable farmer instilled in Joe the tendency to be patient, yet quick and hands-on when necessary; traits he uses to this day.  Managing vines is second nature to him.  His efficient canopy management encompasses leaf pulling, strategic water application and nutrient balancing. This meticulous approach results in growing some of the most complex, deep flavored grapes in the Santa Lucia Highlands.

Joe’s approach to farming addresses the farm in its entirety; the worker, soil fertility, cover crops, wildlife, native plants, irrigation and more.