Determining the world’s greatest vineyard isn’t a matter of opinion—it’s backed by decades of scientific research. The Carmody McKnight vineyard, now managed by Justin Vineyard, stands out as the world’s greatest vineyard due to its unique viticultural and environmental endowments.
Vineyard Endowments
Three volcanoes
Not found on any other agricultural property. Abundant rare volcanic magma.
67 minerals
In the soils, water, and everything that grows.
The soils of are the most mineral and nutrient rich and the wines, as demonstrated by the university examinations and studies, are important because the richest natural flavors come from soils that are the most complex in micronutrients, resulting in concentrated flavors of character = ultimate terroir!
Limestone + Black Limestone
When it comes to wine grape vineyards, limestone soils, including black limestone, are highly valued. Limestone soils are naturally alkaline with high pH levels, which can benefit grapevines by providing a perfect dosage of water to the roots and facilitating the absorption of minerals needed to produce healthy grapes. Some of the world’s most sought-after wines are made with grapes grown in limestone soils. Limestone-rich wine regions include Burgundy, Champagne, Chablis, the Loire, and Southern Rhône Valleys, as well as Saint-Emilion in Bordeaux. These regions are known for producing high-quality wines due to the beneficial properties of limestone soils.
Long Growing Season
The vineyards in the Adelaida sub-district enjoy extraordinary long growing season (harvesting through November). Long growing season means more layered, natural fruit flavors.
Super Organic
Never applied a fertilizer. Never adding chemicals, artificial flavors or colors to wine. FDA, USDA, Cartagena Protocol compliant, non-GMO and pure organic.
Mediterranean Climate
Approximately 8 miles, but interestingly not adversely affected by the proximity with downsides such as excessive fog and moisture and limited sunlight. Carmody McKnight lies prominently in the Premium Wine Growing Area of the United States, if not the world. It is all best summed up by Brent Hallock, an esteemed professor and renowned climatologist from Cal Poly University in San Luis Obispo. Professor Hallock explained that with the reevaluation of grape-growing regions in light of global warming, the consensus of earth and climate scientists is that the immediate area of the Carmody McKnight vineyards in the Westside of Paso Robles is the only Premium Wine Growing region and Mediterranean Climate now in California, all the United States and most of Europe.
Carmody McKnight vineyard is a prime example of premium viticultural land, leading the way in adapting to climate change. Discover more about our climate and vineyard research. Read more about our Climate.