Monterey

Situated on the northwestern tip of the Central Coast region, the secret to Monterey's quality lies in its setting between the Gabilan and the Sierra de Salinas Mountains. They funnel morning fog and cold afternoon air down the Salinas Valley, cooling the vines and allowing grapes to ripen slowly. There are broad variations in microclimates along the valley, allowing varieties like Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to grow well in the north, while Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah and Zinfandel ripen best in the warmer south.