It took two years for the Hahns to find the two neighboring Monterey County horse and cattle ranches that had been converted to vineyard property. The grape growing conditions were ideal, so it was there that Hahn Estates Winery and Smith & Hook Wines were established.
Then in 1988, by now fully realizing the richness of this region, Nicky Hahn sent a letter to his neighbors advocating a new wine appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH). His pioneering effort led to the creation of one of the most exciting U.S. wine appellations today.

Hahn Estates now owns 650 Santa Lucia Highlands vineyard acres that range in elevation from 200 to 1,200 feet. These hillside vineyards produce the exceptional grapes used to create the latest step in the Hahn Family winemaking journey, the brand-new Hahn SLH wines which reflect the passion and commitment of Nicky and Gaby Hahn.

"The new Hahn SLH wines epitomize the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation," said Hahn Family Wines President Bill Leigon, "these estate bottled wines are lush and rich reflections of this renowned Monterey County winegrowing region." The first releases include Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay & Pinot Gris.