That Ain’t No Termato...
...That’s My Wine

by Clark Smith
September 17, 2008

Overall, what impresses about Monterey as an omnibus wine growing region is its sheer ecological and viticultural diversity. As North American wines increasingly become defined by their regionality, overcoming the homogenizing effects of excessive focus on grape varieties, Monterey’s natural diversity can be expected to pay big dividends.

[>] see full story

Related Stories...

Monterey's Best

Santa Lucia Highlands Lowdown

Wine on the Rocks

Monterey Hits Its Stride

Chalone enjoys one of the finest expressions of terroir anywhere. Distinctive Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have earned the wines of Chalone cult status. High in the Gabilan Mountains, straddling the borders of Monterey and San Benito counties, this small appellation is characterized by distinctive limestone and decomposed granite soil. This unique soil combines with an arid climate to stress the vines, concentrating the flavor and mineral character of the legendary wines. Situated above the fog line, this AVA, with less than 300 acres under vine, enjoys high daytime summer temperatures, but low nighttime readings, preserving grape acidity and balance. This rugged terrain near Pinnacle National Monument is the setting for one of California’s viticultural splendors.