Tatomer 'Steinhügel' Riesling, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey Co., California 2023

Graham Tatomer has become one of California’s most respected Riesling specialists, working with coastal vineyards that channel the grape’s tension, minerality, and aromatic precision. ‘Vandenberg’ is his flagship dry Riesling, sourced from the wind-beaten Kick-On Ranch—one of the coolest, most exposed vineyards in Santa Barbara County. The result is a Riesling of cut, texture, and striking coastal energy. 

WINEMAKER: Graham Tatomer

FARMING: Biodynamic

VARIETY: 100% Riesling

TERROIR: Steinhügel is German for rock pile or cairn. The grapes all come from the La Estancia Vineyard. The vineyard is loaded with decomposed granite from the mountains behind Big Sur. There are two German clones, each with its own picking date and two cuvées. Each pick is separated into two versions: a direct whole cluster pressing and an overnight macerated pressing. 

VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested fruit fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel.  

AGING: Neutral french oak

TASTING NOTES: It is loaded with generous fruit, layered with long textures, and energized with vibrant acidity and a dry finish.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with sushi, Thai curries, shellfish, grilled white fish, or fresh chèvre. Also excellent with spicy dishes due to its balance and precision.