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Monterey is another California county experiencing explosive vineyard growth. Many winemakers are realizing that certain varietals do particularly well in in this rather unique microclimate. Monterey is influenced by the proximity of the Pacific Ocean. The hot temperatures of the Central Valley to the East helps to create a vacuum that pulls the cool Pacific weather inland through the valley, the farther inland the warmer and more hospitable the weather becomes. This area has one of the longest growing seasons and helps to let the fruit ripen slowly thus producing intensely flavored fruit. There has been much experimentation in this area with results that few would have predicted twenty years ago. Zinfandel, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon do particularly well for reds and Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc for whites are favorites. Monterey is also another hotbed for Rhone Varietals.
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Chalone Vineyard-Featured Winery
Chalone is one of Californias’ most impotant wineries. The original Vineyard was planted in the 1919 by a frenchman looking for terroir similar to that of his native Burgundy. If you like white Burgundy you will probably love Chalone Chardonnay. The limestone soil is very similar to that of Burgundy. This austere soil makes the grapes struggle to survive thus increasing the fruits intensity and flavors. The altitude is another factor that makes Chalone white wines very distinctive. Chalone Pinot Blanc consistently receives high praise and Pinot Noir shows great promise from this winery. All wines are aged in French oak barrels in underground cellars. | Producer | Varietal | Vintage | Price | Buy Now | | Chalone | Pinot Noir | 2000 | 31.99 | Details | | Chalone | Chardonnay | 2000 | 29.99 | Details | | Chalone | Pinot Blanc | 1994 | 29.99 | Details |
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