Pacheco Pass Wine

The Pacheco Pass AVA is largely located in Santa Clara County, California, although its southernmost portion lies within San Benito County. The Pacheco mountain pass is an important 15-mile (24-km) route through the Diablo Range from the San Francisco Bay area to the Central Valley.

Pacheco Pass has a transitional climate as it is affected both by the moderating coastal influence of the Pacific Ocean and by the heat coming from regions further inland. Rolling hills dominate the landscape, making it very windy.

The region is mostly known for producing good-quality everyday wines. Chardonnay and Merlot are the main varieties planted here, but Gewurztraminer and Zinfandel from Pacheco Pass are also worth seeking out. For a long time the third-generation Zanger Vineyards has been the only commercial winery in the region.