Monterey County, nestled on California’s Central Coast, has a relatively recent history in the world of wine production. It wasn’t until the 1960s that commercial-scale viticulture began to thrive in this region, particularly in the Salinas Valley, which became the epicenter of grape planting along the picturesque Californian coastline.
Located on the Central Coast of California, Monterey County spans approximately 90 miles (145 km) from Monterey Bay to the southern edge of San Luis Obispo County. This captivating valley is flanked by the Galiban Mountains to the east and the Santa Lucia Mountains, which run alongside the Pacific Coast.
In 1984, Monterey County earned its designation as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). Since then, it has earned a reputation as a prominent cool-climate wine-producing region in California, offering a diverse range of wines. The region is especially renowned for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Monterey County can be divided into three key subregions: the Santa Lucia Mountains, the Salinas Valley, and the inland Galiban range.
The Salinas Valley, often referred to as the engine room of Monterey County, is where most of the region’s vines thrive. Notable AVAs within this valley include San Lucas, Santa Lucia Highlands, and Arroyo Seco. The valley boasts a rich agricultural history and was immortalized in the works of author John Steinbeck. The cooling influence of the nearby Monterey Bay, characterized by cold winds and fog, shapes the climate in the Salinas Valley, resulting in a prolonged growing season, ideal for cool-climate varieties like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. In the southern end of the valley, wines tend to be fuller-bodied.
The Santa Lucia Mountains, along the southwestern edge of the county, house sub-AVAs with varying altitudes that significantly impact terroir. These regions, including Carmel Valley, Hames Valley, and San Antonio Valley, benefit from a warmer climate with notable diurnal temperature shifts, making them conducive to the production of wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot.
In the Galiban Mountains, Chalone AVA stands out, featuring high-altitude vineyards impacted by the Salinas winds. Chalone is often likened to Burgundy due to its similar soil and climate characteristics, making it a prime location for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir production.
The soils of Monterey County vary, with loam being predominant, offering excellent drainage for vineyards. Sandy loam and gravel are common along the valley floor, while thinner soils composed of decomposed granite, chalky limestone, and shale are found in the mountains. These soil variations provide vintners with diverse options for premium viticulture.
In this picturesque wine region, the wines produced reflect the unique terroirs, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay showcasing elegance and finesse, while Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varieties offer depth and complexity. Monterey County has firmly established itself as a dynamic and thriving wine-producing area on California’s Central Coast.
