The Templeton Gap District is one of 11 designated AVA's within the larger Paso Robles viticultural area on California's Central Coast. It surrounds the town of Templeton and is situated below passes in the Santa Lucia Range to the west, which allow breezes and other influential marine effects from the Pacific Ocean to pass into the greater Paso Robles area; an important climatic feature for many other viticultural areas in the region.
The Templeton Gap District sits on the Monterey formation of hard bedrock, distinct from the soft higher elevation shale and calcareous bedrock to the north in the Willow Creek District. This shift in terrain also marks the border between the two regions, with a similar distinction along the southern border where there is a separation between the upper and lower Monterey formation; there is no viticultural area immediately south however.
Because of its location westerly and within passes between peaks in the Santa Lucia Range, Templeton is very heavily influenced by the ocean, giving it the strongest maritime climate in the Paso Robles viticultural region. Higher elevations in the west of Templeton allow heavier marine air to roll down the slopes and onto the broad terraces of the rest of the area. This brings fog and strong breezes giving Templeton Gap District the highest humidity in Paso Robles. Elevation ranges from 700 to 1800 feet (213-548m), while the rainfall averages 20 inches annually. The cooler climate lengthens the ripening time in vineyards so Templeton typically picks 10-14 days later than other Paso Robles sub-regions.
Similar to much of Paso Robles, Syrah and southern Rhône varieties are successful, as well as Zinfandel and the white Rhône grape Viognier. The region is also known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends.
