The Templeton Gap District is a famous American Viticultural Area (AVA) situated within the larger Paso Robles AVA, located in San Luis Obispo County, California. The area is named after the Templeton Gap, a break in the coastal ranges of California which allows a cooling marine influence from the Pacific Ocean.
This district covers approximately 7,100 acres and its vineyards are located at different altitudes, ranging from 700 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Due to the cooling wind and fog from the Pacific Ocean, the area has a significantly cooler climate compared to other parts of the Paso Robles AVA. This climatic feature allows the grapes to ripen slowly and thereby results in a balanced level of acidity and sugar in the wine.
The fertile, alluvial soils with high concentrations of gravel, clay and limestone are found in varied combinations throughout the district, making it well-suited to the production of high-quality wine grapes. The region is well-known for producing fine red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel. Many high-rated wineries are located in this area, including Wild Horse Winery and Castoro Cellars.
Despite being a relatively small viticultural area, the Templeton Gap District greatly contributes to California's esteemed winemaking industry with its distinctive terroir and favorable growing conditions.
