The growing season kicked off with a January rain event that brought 50% of the region’s seasonal rainfall in under three days, followed by an extremely dry February and March, with cool temperatures delaying budbreak until mid-March in the Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Summer brought mild temperatures, with cool mornings and abundant fog that helped lengthen the growing season, yielding grapes with great natural acidity and complex flavors. The mild weather continued until harvest, producing energetic white wines with beautiful tropical layers and refreshing minerality, and profoundly concentrated Pinot Noirs with lush layers of blue fruit and savory spice.