Monterey County

Not to be confused with Monterey AVA, Monterey County is a larger designation that also includes the Carmel and San Antonio valleys, among others. Encompassing three distinct zones at the northern end of the Central Coast, Monterey County produces vast amounts of high-quality Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Gris. For reds, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon have often been replaced by Pinot Noir, Syrah and Grenache in recent years. These cooler-climate grapes achieve greatness through the influence of Monterey Bay, which pushes cold fogs and chilly afternoon winds down the Salinas Valley, tempering the sun's heat and allowing a long, moderate ripening season.