The Santa Lucia Highlands, located on the east-facing terraces of the Santa Lucia mountain range, has a rich history dating back to the 1790s when Spanish settlers first planted vinifera grapes. Though initially focused on vegetable farming, the region's true potential for winegrowing was realized in the 1970s by pioneers like Nicky Hahn and Rich Smith, with the area becoming famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay by the 1990s. Officially designated an AVA in 1992, the region now spans 5,700 acres, producing some of California's most sought-after wines.