Saddle Rock - Malibu - Wine Region of the Day


Saddle Rock - Malibu received its designation as an AVA in 2006. Situated on 2,100 acres, Saddle Rock-Malibu is located high in the Santa Monica Mountains in Los Angeles County. Located just 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Saddle Rock's growing region sits at an elevation of 2,000 feet above sea level. Saddle Rock - Malibu has sandy, rocky soil, which is well draining and forces the grapes to dig their roots deep into the ground in search of water. The region is washed in sunlight during the day, but its high elevation allows for cooling nighttime effects that lengthen the growing season, allowing the fruit to develop good acidity balance. The hot days of Saddle Rock-Malibu make the region ideal for growing Cabernet SauvignonMerlot, and Zinfandel.

Malibu Coast - Wine Region of the Day

Photo of the Malibu Coast by David Toomey for Qorkz.


Containing the smaller Malibu-Newton Canyon and Saddle Rock Malibu appellations, the Malibu Coast AVA was created in 2014.  Ironically, due to its size this  the last of the three Malibu appellations adopted.  The region has been producing wine since the 1820's when Spanish General Jose Bartolome Tapia settled the property now known as Serra Retreat.  Currently, the area is home to more than fifty vineyards producing mainly Cabernet SauvignonChardonnayMerlot and Syrah.