How does the Santa Lucia Highlands benefit from its elevation during the growing season?

The Santa Lucia Highlands benefit from its elevation during the growing season primarily by taking advantage of morning sun before afternoon cooling. The higher elevation allows vineyards to receive ample sunlight in the morning, which helps to ripen the grapes early in the day. As temperatures rise during the day, the influence of cooler marine air and fog starts to roll in from the Pacific Ocean. This cooling effect, particularly in the afternoon, can help preserve acidity and aromas in the grapes, ensuring a balanced development of flavors.

The timing of this environmental dynamic is crucial for grape growing, as it allows the fruit to develop robust characteristics while avoiding the excessive heat that can occur lower down in the valley. By capturing both the morning sunlight and the benefits of the afternoon cooling, the Santa Lucia Highlands create an ideal microclimate for growing high-quality grapes, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the significance of elevation in this context. The high elevation does not completely avoid fog; rather, it creates a unique interaction with it. Rainfall in the region is typically more abundant in the winter months rather than the summer, and lower humidity levels are a result of elevation but are not the primary benefit linked to the growth cycle of the grapes.