As a sommelier, I find myself captivated by the amazing wine variety that different regions offer, and my last trip to California punctuated this affinity for me. You see, found along California's central coastline is Monterey County, a lesser talked about regional wonder that stands out for its cool climate grapes.
Monterey is a complex blend of geography, climate, and winemaking skills that yield remarkable wines, and a visit to the region, whether through the glass or on the ground, will have you looking at California wine in a whole new light.
The Geography of Monterey County
Monterey County's geography is as diverse as the wines it produces. Its geography is characterized by a combination of coastal plains, rolling hills, and mountainous regions. The county is home to several mountain ranges, including the Santa Lucia Range, which features peaks that rise significantly above the surrounding area, with elevations reaching over 5,000 feet. This geographical variety contributes to numerous microclimates, each uniquely impacting grape cultivation. For example, while vineyards near the ocean may experience cooler temperatures, those a bit inland can differ significantly. This diversity allows winemakers to explore various varieties and identify the ideal grapes to match their desired output. This diversity also makes blending the same variety from different sites a winemaker's dream. You are guaranteed to get ideal structure and balance, not to mention an undeniably favourable palate experience.
Cool Climate Influences
Climate is essential to grape growing, especially in Monterey County. While painted as a maritime climate, the region experiences several cooling factors which create mesoclimates that are 'cool climate', by definition. The present cooling factors in Monterey make it ideal for grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay due to its mild weather and significant temperature variations.
During my vineyard visits, I discovered that daytime temperatures often reach the mid-20s (mid-70s Fahrenheit) but can drop to 7° Celcius (45° Fahrenheit) at night. This dramatic temperature shift is crucial, as it helps retain the grapes' natural acidity and aromatic qualities, resulting in wines with balanced profiles.
Interestingly, studies show that grapes grown in cooler climates retain higher acidity levels, which are essential for long-aging wines.
The Marine Influence
One of the most intriguing aspects of Monterey's climate is its closeness to the Pacific Ocean. The cold ocean waters, coupled with coastal winds, create a unique cooling effect essential for grape growth.
I recall standing on a bluff, looking over the vineyards while feeling the refreshing ocean breeze. This breeze, especially prominent in the afternoons, creates an ideal environment for cool climate grapes. It protects the grapes' structure and flavour, resulting in wines that are both vibrant and complex. For instance, the cooling marine influence has been linked to wines displaying bright fruit characteristics and layered complexities that are genuinely delightful.
Fog Magic
Along with the ocean, the fog that blankets the region, particularly in summer, is nothing short of magical. While visiting various vineyards, I experienced the seductive fog that rolls in from the ocean, creating a soft, dreamlike ambiance.
The fog acts as a natural air conditioner, regulating warm temperatures while providing moisture vital for grape development. Because of this cooling effect, grapes enjoy a longer growing season, encouraging more complex flavours to develop.
Varietals Flourishing in the Cold
Thanks to these unique climatic conditions, varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive and take centre stage in Monterey's wine scene. Chardonnay, in fact, accounts for over 50% of the vineyard acreage in the region.
Through numerous tastings, I have experienced the exceptional tasting notes of both the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes of Monterey County along with the odd Riesling, and they all demonstrate the impact of the areas cool climate.
Monterey's Pinot Noir often exhibits lively acidity with fresh fruit flavours, such as raspberry and cherry, accompanied by earthiness. In contrast, its Chardonnays stand out with bright citrus notes, like lemon and lime, along with a mineral-driven quality that I find irresistible.
Sustainability and Innovation
As a wine lover, I am excited to see livestock and ecosystems thriving in Monterey County, thanks to many wineries adopting sustainable practices. For instance wineries like Carmel Road Winery, utilize drip irrigation to conserve water and energy. They also recycle winery rinse water multiple times before using it for irrigation, significantly reducing water consumption.
In addition to drip irrigation, some wineries are implementing other eco-friendly approaches, including dry farming and cover cropping.
It's Worth The Trip
As we conclude our exploration of Monterey County, it's clear that this remarkable region offers much more than just beautiful landscapes. It's Worth The Trip to immerse yourself in the unique wines that Monterey has to offer.
As you sip that glass of Monterey Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, you'll think of Monterey's complex terroir, shaped by the cool coastal breezes and the deep waters of the Pacific. Moreover, the region’s commitment to sustainable practices and innovative winemaking ensures that every bottle tells a story of the land and its caretakers.
Monterey County is well worth the exploration.
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