gift of the ages

The mineral comparison charts on this page, pictured against Carmody McKnight's "back-yard volcano," are just one of many similar examinations undertaken by Dr. Thomas J. Rice, chairman of the Earth & Soil Sciences Department of Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA. In one of the most significant soil and geological studies of a vineyard ever launched, Cal Poly invested thousands of hours in comprehensive trials and analyses resulting in research project papers authored by nine graduates of Cal Poly. The unusual combination of limestone, montmorillonite, and igneous (volcanic) rock and the twenty-six soil types that compose the vineyard make the Carmody McKnight Vineyards the perfect natural laboratory for such vital research. This extraordinary convergence of soils, found nowhere else on earth, contributes to the most perfect environment known for grape growing and winemaking.

The adjoining charts, prepared by the Soil Science Department of Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA, contrast nutrients in Chardonnay grape-must found in the Carmody McKnight Vineyards (top chart) with the most nutrients previously found in grapes, depicted in the bottom chart (Winkler et al, 1974).