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monterey wines california salinas vineyard
Image: Jitze Couperus

From the stunning steep slopes of Carmel Valley to the gentle rolling hills of Salinas Valley, Monterey stands alone in crafting wines of incredible flavour, character and balance. Here are 14 things you probably don’t know about this truly unique wine region…
  1. Most of Monterey’s vineyards are on the foothills overlooking the beautiful Salinas Valley.
 
  1. The wine industry in Monterey County is worth $1 billion each year.
 
  1. Monterey County is one of California’s largest premium wine grape-producing regions, with approximately 46,000 acres of planted vineyards—that’s more than Napa, with 45,990 acres and Paso Robles with 26,000 acres.
 
  1. The ‘Thermal Rainbow’ of Monterey determines which of the regions the different varietals are planted. The coolest areas are to the north, closest to the ocean, and the warmest areas are to the south, furthest away from the ocean.
 
  1. Monterey’s wine industry is nothing new: Spanish missionaries first planted grape vines here in the 18th century.
 
  1. Monterey Country boasts some 359 vineyards and 82 bonded wineries—that marks an increase of 46 percent since 2012.
 
  1. There are 65 tasting rooms to discover in the River Road, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey and Carmel Valley regions.
 
  1. In 1960, Monterey County was classified as Region I and II, making it comparable with premium regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux.
 
  1. Monterey is part of the Central Coast American Viticultural Area, which is made up of 25 glorious grape-growing miles of coastline from San Francisco County to Santa Barbara County.
 
  1. The last four consecutive Pinot Noir vintages from the Monterey region have rated highest of all the California Pinot Noir regions.
 
  1. Monterey has been named one of the ’10 Best Wine Destinations in the World’ by Wine Enthusiast.
 
  1. The Monterey wine region is unique because its range of climates allows the growth of over 30 different wine grape varieties.
 
  1. The region is the largest grower of Chardonnay in the US. Monterey also grows more Pinot Noir than any other county in California.
 
  1. Monterey County grapes are so good that 50 percent of the region’s wine grapes are bought up by out of country brands.
Thirsty? The Laurel Inn & Conference Center in Salinas is the perfect accommodation option if you’re planning a wine-tasting getaway this fall. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, use the free high-speed Wi-Fi, take a dip in the heated pool or enjoy a meal at the onsite Black Bear Diner.