Monterey County

Monterey County is renowned for the stunning beauty of Big Sur and the quiet charm of Carmel.  Its climate reflects the cooling influence of Monterey Bay; although stiff marine breezes predominate, summer days grow warm enough to ripen grapes.  Due to these cool conditions, harvest may be more than two weeks later than in other regions.  This allows fruit to mature slowly, developing ripe fruit flavors in combination with lower alcohol and acidity.  Low ground temperatures limit crop size, while steep slopes and rolling hills provide good drainage.

Monterey is home to 40,000 acres of winegrapes and nine AVAs: Arroyo Seco, Carmel Valley, Chalone, Hames Valley, Monterey, San Antonio Valley, San Bernabe, San Lucas and Santa Lucia Highlands.  Approximately 75 wineries and growers cultivate Chardonnay and Merlot, and—more and more—Pinot Noir and Syrah.  Monterey accounts for approximately seven percent of the total state wine grape crush.
Monterey Winegrowers Assoc: www.montereywines.org