Vino Las Vegas embarks on a Literary and Agricultrual Tour of Monterey County

The morning rays of the sun rose over Monterey Bay and began to shine through the wooden shutters of our spacious room . Sounds of seagulls and waves gently splashing on the rocks below reminded us that we were no longer in the desert .






A quick breakfast on the patio and we were off to explore the many interesting aspects that Monterey County has to offer. Monterey County is famous for many things, however no true exploration of Monterey and the Salinas Valley could not be complete without exploring the works of Author John Steinbeck.

















Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck was born and raised in Salinas not far from Monterey. His novels East of Eden, Tortilla Flat, Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday are among the stories that use Monterey county as the backdrop for his novels.



Monterey County Agricultural expert Evan Oaks, Owner of Ag Venture Tours took us on a journey through Steinbeck country like a true native. As we headed down Highway 68 towards Salinas he explained that Steinbecks Novels reflect his deep-seated roots in Monterey County.



Steinbeck first received attention with a novel set just after World War I in Monterey, titled Tortilla Flat. This book focused on Monterey residents of Mexican descent. His work at ranches and farms in Salinas informed his "California novels" set in the Depression-era farmland of the Central Valley, including Of Mice and Men and The Grapes of Wrath.

We arrived at Castle Rock which was the inspiration of John Steinbeck's Camelot castle in his book The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights, along with other stories, such as Pastures of Heaven, in which Steinbeck says that it has “so serene a beauty.” In this short story, “The Murder,” he starts the book with “This happened a number of years ago in Monterey County...At the head of the canyon there stands a tremendous stone castle, buttressed and towered like those strongholds the Crusaders put up in the path of their conquests. Only a close visit to the castle shows it to be a strange accident of time and water and erosion working on soft, stratified sandstone.”



The bluffs and castle-like turrets of stone that fascinated Steinbeck were featured in his Pastures of Heaven ( 1932 ). As Evan read to us from Pastures of Heaven we could not help but almost feel that John Steinback himself was looking down on us from the ramparts of his beloved Castle Rock.

Salinas Valley




As we proceeded down highway 68 to the Salinas Valley , Evan informed us that the Salinas Valley is the center for Monterey County’s 3.8 billion-dollar agriculture industry.

Due to its temperate, Mediterranean-like climate and fertile soils, the county has become the number one vegetable-producing region in the nation.



He continued to point out that this area supplies 80 percent of the nation’s lettuces and nearly the same percentage of artichokes. Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, strawberries, peppers, squash, carrots, asparagus, celery, tomatoes, mushrooms, brussel sprouts, garlic, onions and flowers are also grown in abundance.

In addition, Monterey County has become one of the largest premium grape growing regions in California, with over 40,000 acres of wine grapes planted

Local growers and shippers in the Valley lead the industry in all phases of crop growth including seed technology, planting and irrigation, harvesting and marketing. Pre-packaged salads and precut fresh vegetables were created in the Salinas Valley, and this innovation has changed the way we buy vegetables.

The technologies that we developed in the Salinas Valley are being recognized and imitated by farmers around the world.

Today , Monterey County continues to be a leader in agricultural exports with over 570 million pounds of produce exported annually. Top importers of Salinas Valley produce include Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mexico and the European Union

The highly sought after Organic produce is and has been incorporated into the holdings of most large companies and many are continually working on experimental projects . There are currently over 14,000 acres of organic vegetables growing in Monterey County. More than 40 crops exceeded $1 million in production value in 2008.

D Arrigo Farms home of the Andy Boy name
80 Years in the making



It is hard to imagine that when Andrea and Stefano D’Arrigo brought broccoli seeds from their native Italy in 1923, this delicious and nutritious mainstay was virtually unknown in America.

Along with broccoli, the D’Arrigo family brought a family passion for growing fresh vegetables that has continued through the decades.

Margaret D Arrigo , Executive Vice President was waiting as we pulled up to her family's sprawling headquarters facility . She explained that she was going to take us on a drive to their cactus pear farm to show us a new project they are working on and then for lunch.




Our 30 min ride to the farm took us along side of the Santa Lucia Highlands and the ancient alluvial fans that produce some of the countries finest wines. We turned down a dirt road and into a cactus farm. It seemed quite out of place right between of some very famous vineyards.
Margaret explained Edible cactus is also known as nopales (no-PAH-les), nopalitos or cactus pads. This vegetable is popular in Mexico and other Central American countries, parts of Europe, the Middle East, India, North Africa and Australia.



Its popularity is increasing in the United States where it can be found at Mexican grocery stores, specialty produce markets and farmer’s markets. In addition to the food aspect she has plans to use the cactus pear puree in various cocktails including Richard Oh's OH Zone vodka. 80 years ago D Arrigo was a pioneer in the Salinas Valley. Margaret and her brother seem to be keeping up the cutting edge tradition with their latest project.



Today, D'Arrigo Bros. Co., of California (Andy Boy) specializes in Romaine, Romaine Hearts, Iceberg Lettuce, Green Leaf, Red Leaf, Butter Lettuce, Broccoli Rabe, Broccoli, Shrink-Wrap Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cactus Pears, Nopalitos and Fennel. They service customers in the retail food, foodservice, and the food wholesale sectors and farms some 24,000 acres . On the way back to the headquarters building and what promised to be a great afternoon with lunch and a Pinot Noir focus tasting , Margaret explained that she conducts cooking classes for local children to educate them on eating and cooking better and she added the program as has had fantastic results.

D Arrigo Lunch was nothing but spectacular


After spending most of the morning in the farms and fields of the Salinas Valley we were now ready to enjoy some the great food and of course wine that they are so famous for. Margaret D' Arrigo pulled out all the stops and put on a lunch that has to be one of the best we have had the pleasure to enjoy.

When you combine the talent of a great local Chef and a 5th Generation winemaker those are all the ingredients you need for a wonderful time.

Karl Wente , Fifth Generation Winemaker , Wente Family estates joined us for lunch. Karl explained that his family's vineyard is the country's oldest , continuously operated vineyard and was founded in 1883. With over 3000 acres of Sustainably farmed grapes , they have created a very well known and vast portfolio of wines.


He went on to add that Wente Vineyards has a restaurant , golf course , does catering events and even concerts. On this day , he enjoyed the fresh creations from Chef Todd Fisher with each course being paired with a Wente wine.


Chef Todd Fisher showed off his culinary talent and created a lunch that showed off the products of this fertile valley. His Caesar salad with Andy Boy Romaine Hearts was probably the freshest that we have had, understating we were very close to where it was grown. Of course a lunch in Salinas would not be a lunch with out Guacamole and Fresh Salsa. Chef took it one more step and made a Guacamole Rabe and ended our lunch with Prickly Pear Sorbet and Lemonade.



Broccoli Rabe & Carne Asada Tacos
paired with Wente Vineyards 2006 Small Lot Syrah was a pairing that was spot on.

Chef Todd Fisher really captured to flavors of the Salinas Valley with his
Colored Cauliflower Enchiladas and contrasted it by pairing the Nth Degree 2007 Pinot Noir
THE CUISINEIST Culinary Magazine takes a "foodie" look at this wonderful lunch and speaks with Chef Todd Fisher. Stop in and take a look !

Just when one may think the afternoon could not get much better , It did. Vino Las Vegas sat down with some of the founding winemakers in Monterey County and explored 5 of the 8 AVAs at a Pinot Noir Terroir Focus Tasting


Some of the best Pinot Noirs' in our opinion come out of Monterey County. With its cool climate and maritime influence , Pinot Noirs do well in most of the AVAs in the county. This area provides the proper temperature , warm days, a shorter frost season and less chance of unseasonable and damaging rains. The primary attribute of this singular climate is the cooling air of the Monterey Bay, which creates a longer growing season. As air in the southern part of the county warms at noon each day and rises, cool air from the Bay fills the void left by the rising warm air.


Grapevines in Monterey County tend to produce buds in the Springs, two weeks earlier than vines in other regions. Due to the cool growing season, the Fall harvest typically beings two weeks later than other regions. Thus, local grapes remain on the vine a full month longer, developing the characteristic intensity of flavor.






We had the opportunity to sample Pinot Noirs from Arroyo Seco. This AVA is almost in the middle of the county next to the Santa Lucia Highlands. The first Pinot Noir we sampled was 2007 J Lohr Fog's Reach Pinot Noir . This was a young Pinot but represented itself well. Monterey County legonary founder Steve
McIntyre was on hand and presented us with his 2006 McIntyre
Vineyards Misson Ranch Pinot Noir. Having more time in the bottle , this Pinot Noir showed what the Arroyo Seco AVA is all about , showing off the AVAs unique qualities. The Santa Lucia Highlands may be the county's biggest name. Located in some of the highest elevations of the county. This AVA is well known for its Pinot Noirs. Several Pinot Noirs were sampled from this appelation. The 2007
Bernardus Vineyards Rosella's Santa Lucia Highlands , 2007 Hahn Estates SLH Pinot Noir , Steve McIntyre was up to the task with his 2007 McIntyre Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir and was followed by Morgan Winery with there 2007 Morgan Winery Twelve Clones Pinot Noir and 2007 Morgan Winery Double L Vineyard Pinot Noir.


The next AVA we explored was the renowned Chalone AVA which is the oldest and located on eastern side of the county at very high elevations. Who else could start the tasting of this AVAs Pinot Noirs was legendary winemaker Michael Michaud. His 2005 Michaud Vineyard Pinot Noir was a great way to get our Pinot Noir trip started. Of course Chalone Vineyard was on had to show off their 2007 Chalone Vineyard Pinot Noir as well.
Not be be left out Carmel Valley AVA was well represented by Bernardus Vineyards and their 2007 Bernardus Vineyards Ingrids Carmel Valley Pinot Noir. The Monterey AVA was represented by

Carmel Road Winery and its 2007 Carmel Road Sierra Granite Pinot Noir. And Scheid Vineyards with their 2007 Scheid Vineyards Pinot Noir to finish this very special Pinot Noir journey through the hills and valleys of Monterey County.

A Visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium


If your staying on Cannery Row the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is worth a visit. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery and has an annual attendance of 1.8 million and holds 35,000 plants and animals representing 623 species.





The basic design of the aquarium pumps 2000 gallons/minute of Monterey Bay ocean water, night and day, through the more than 100 exhibit tanks. During the day the water is filtered for viewing clarity. During the night, raw (unfiltered) seawater is pumped through exhibits, bringing in food in the form of plankton. Waste ocean water from the aquarium is returned to the Bay. This design makes the aquarium ecologically essentially part of the ocean in the Bay, and allows the culture of organisms such as Giant Kelp which are not suitable for ordinary saltwater aquariums.


We stolled amongst numerous sea life and were in totall awe of their beauty. This Aquariium is one of best known in the world and just another aspect that Monterey County has to offer to its visitors. Located on Cannery Row it is easlity accesbale and walking distance to many of the hotels.















In addition to appreciating the beauty of the sea life, we were at the aquarium in the evening for a very special event. There were winemaker dinners all over the county and ours was right here in the middle of the aquarium with great wine from Estancia and Chef David Anderson's culinary delights.



Estancia wines are very well known. Their winemakers strive to combine the best of both worlds with a state-of-the art winemaking facility, and a traditional, hands-on approach to to take advantage of the beneficial advances in winemaking technology that has developed over the years.
Scott Kelly joined Estancia in 2007 as Director of Winemaking and is responsible for the day-to-day activities of winemaking this includes walking the vineyards, tasting each barrel to determining blending, aging and bottling.



Scott knew wanted to be a winemaker from the time he was 17 years old. He worked his way to assistant brewmaster for Carmel Brewing Co. in Salinas, managing all aspects of brewing.

A year later, he joined Golden State Vintners in Napa Vally as a laboratory supervisor then promoted to cellar master and eventually assistant winemaker. Following Golden State Vintners, Scott then worked as winemaker for La Famiglia and then Robert Mondavi Private Selection before joining Estancia in 2007.
He continued on to earn Bachelor of Science degree in fermentation science from University of California at Davis and was also awarded a Certification of Master Brewers Program.


We walked into the Aquarium and realized at night this was a whole different experience than during the day. Guests had the very special opportunity to walk amongst sharks , large kelp forests , and even penguins while sipping on some great wines and tantalizeing treats from Chef David Anderson , Portola Resturant Executive Chef.


It was now time to dine. and dine we did. Each table had a winemaker or host from the winery to enjoy the wine , dishes and answer any questions we may have.





Chef Anderon's Farmed Artic Char Blanquette Crep paried with Estancia Reserve 2007 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands paired great with the dish as its soft silky tanins and spice lead to a lingering finish which was a true complement to the dish.






Braised Beef Short Rib, red wine risotto was paired with the 2006 Estancia Mertage Paso Robles which melted in our mouth. Flavours and aromas of chocolate , black cherries and even rosemarry combined for a great marriage with this dish.






Last but certainly not least was a Rustic fig-almond tart and of course not surprisingly was paired with Estancia 2008 Riesling , Monterey County.





Chef David Anderson , Scott Kelly , Estancia wines and the Monterey Bay aquarium gave us all a memorable experience in a venue that was created by nature itself. We walked along the famed Cannery Row, marveling at the stars and taking in ocean aromas on the way back to the Monterey Bay Inn and preparing for a visit to Carmel Valley the next day.

Kris O'Conner from the Vineyard team speaks to all of us about Sustainability not only on the Farms but in the Vineyards as well.

In these days and times a big "buzz" world is Sustainability . The practice of Sustainable , Organic farming not only applies to our food but now , literally from the ground up, in the Vineyards.

The Monterey Plazza Hotel located on Cannery Row offered us an opportunity to meet Kris O' Conner from the Central Coast Vineyard team. She lead us in a discussion on their acclaimed Certification program.



It is important to realize that true sustainability includes the Farms, People and the environment. Kris O'Conner made the point that we recognize how the farm affects the land beyond the fence line and that farms work to protect the environment and care for their workers. The vineyard team encourages farms to plant cover crops to reduce erosion , minimize the tractor use and use alternative fuels. Kris O ' Conner stated the team regularly scouts the vineyards checking for pest-prey balance and will only use reduced risk materials as a last resort. Water conservation is also important as the vineyards are monitored for water use . A factor that many people over look when they talk about sustainability is the people. Social Responsibility O'Conner stated means to offer competitive wages , medical insurance , training and education because the workers are a very valuable resource.

The SIP Certified Vineyards have meaningful standards that are set by experts and the Growers must meet the highest level of performance just to be eligible. Independent inspectors confirm the grower has met the standards and an independent panel grants the certification based on audits or reports.

It is so important to our food supply that we look for the SIP seal that assures us , the consumer, that the growers protected our natural resources , treated their employees well and have sound business practices.

Some of the Vineyards that have achieved this highest level of sustainability are Ampelos Cellars , Edna Valley Vineyard , McIntyre Vineyards , Robert Hall Winery and Paraiso Vineyards just to name a few.

For more information about SIP Certified Vineyards please go to Sipthegoodlife.org

Vino Las Vegas vists Carmel Valley , stops for lunch at a Chateau , takes a 17 mile ocean drive and samples wine from a new AVA

Over 200 years ago a viticultural tradition began in Monterey County. In 1983 The Amercian Vinticultural Association granted appellation status to 19,200 acres in Carmel Valley . Today , nine tasting rooms give visitors a chance to sample award winning Cabernet Sauvignon , Merlot and Cabernet Franc. But Carmel Valley is much more than just wine . VINO LAS VEGAS set out on a journey from Cannery Row to Carmel Valley to find many of the opportunities this interesting area provides.

We left the cool fog of Monterey Bay behind and drove down the famous Highway One that connects California's Big Sur to Carmel and from Carmel to Monterey in what John Steinbeck called the most dramatic meeting of Land and Sea.

We continued to meander down Highway One and then on to Carmel Valley Road under the guidance of Elizabeth Vitarisi Suro , Managing Director of Carmel Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Sun came out as we drove by wildflowers and majestic oak trees. Suro explained that Carmel Valley was once the home of dairies, ranchers and farms; and in some cases, it still is. But most of the historic family holdings have evolved into award-winning wineries, one-of-a-kind Carmel Valley shopping villages, world-class golf-links, unique resorts and lodging and fine-dining restaurants and even organic vegetable stands. Relatively left untouched since the Spanish Land Grants , the valley is still home to redwood canyons and ancient pines.

On this day we were on our way to explore not just the wines that Carmel Valley is famous for but the shopping , art galleries , the 5000 acre Garland Ranch and relaxing hotels and spas such as the renown Carmel Valley Ranch.

We entered the Carmel Valley road at the mouth of the valley where we found pristine golf courses and passed through mid valley with its resorts and shopping then our anticipation grew as we pulled into Carmel Valley Village and its artisan community and of course great food and wine.





The first stop we made in Carmel Valley Village was Heller Estate Organic Vineyards. Heller Estate Organic Vineyards has 120 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc,Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir are planted at an altitude of 1200 - 1500 feet

The vineyards are dry-farmed with the roots of the vines descending deep in the sandy soil to the "Cachagua" springs. These stressed vines produce outstanding luscious fruit.

The Heller Cabernets have been described as "super-rich, with lots of tannin and explosively long finishes". The Chardonnays have been described as "dramatic, blockbuster wines which are rich, exceptionally age worthy, and can easily last 5-7 years - an uncommonly long time for a California Chardonnay"



Perhaps the most interesting aspect of stopping by the tasting room is the chance of meeting Toby Heller, internationally known sculptor of large works. A sculpture garden has been added to the property, as well as another adjacent to the tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. The sculptures are the inspiration for the Heller labels. A great example is the label, "Dances on Your Palate". It is based on a fifteen-foot high, bronze sculpture overlooking the vineyards, and the motto "Magical Wines That Dance on Your Palate " is featured on the label. If you appreciate wine and art , Heller is worth a stop.




The tasting room offers its guests the opportunity to taste the entire range of these award winning wines (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Port and Late Harvest Reisling), and even delicious Merlot-filled Chocolate. The Tasting Room also offers a selection of wine accessories and wine related gifts, a Mini Art Gallery, and a unique collection of Santon dolls and Mrs. Toby Heller's world famous and award winning pieces of art displayed in the sculpture garden and tasting room.






The vineyards are certified 100% organic. No herbicides nor pesticides are used in the production of the grapes. The certification was granted after three vintages of clean farming.

Rich Tanguay, formerly of Topolos & Buena Vista, is the winemaker and overseeing the production of these award-winning wines. Renamed "Heller Estate Organic Vineyards", the wines are all estate bottled and, as stated above, organically produced. The current production is approximately 25,000 cases annually.

Frank Joyce owner of Joyce Vineyards produces some great very small production Estate grown wines and has a very interesting story on how he got into the science of being a grower and winemaker. Dr. Frank Joyce, a successful local dentist, discovered an unknown talent for turning the grapes into fine, premium wines. The Estate vineyard is situated on five acres including an extreme hillside slope behind his house, a determination was made that a landslide could occur from the hillside above the house and in order to protect the property, vegetation needed to be planted throughout the hillside.


Considering the southwest facing slope and the soil composition it was decided that the best vegetation would be grape vines using European style cross-hill terracing.

The first vines planted on the hillside in 1987 named his first born son, Russell and created the vineyard which produces the estate Cabernet for Russell’s Vineyard.
In 1993, a second vineyard was planted on the hillside above Russell’s Vineyard on a forty-one degree hillside and named after his second son, Michael.



This vineyard produces the estate Merlot, known as Michael’s Merlot. An additional vineyard was added in 1997 located in the front of the family home producing the Joyce Estate Pinot Noir.


After studying with such noted winemakers as Paul Hobbs of Paul Hobbs Wines and Kathy Joseph of Fiddlehead, he decided to pursue wine making in addition to dentistry as As the production of wine grew, the winery was relocated to a larger facility in Salinas, California and now produces four Pinot Noirs, two Merlots, two Cabernet Sauvignons, one Chardonnay , one Syrah and one pudding wine. Joyce produces some outstanding wines with his Syrah being a real stand out. The tasting room is located in Lyonshead Art Gallery featuring local artists provides a relaxing, comfortable environment in which to taste these great wines.







Carmel Valley is fast becoming a "place to be " which is saying alot when Carmel , Pacific Grove and Monterey are their neighbors . Our journey continued past OH and Otter Cove wines by winemaker Richard OH and then on to the historic Talbot Winery tasting room.








In 1982, Robb Talbott began planting his original Diamond T Estate vineyard in Carmel Valley.

Robb established one of the area's best estate programs, featuring two of Monterey County’s grand cru sites: Diamond T Estate and the legendary Sleepy Hollow Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. This area of Sleepy Hollow has earned a reputation for producing wines of great depth and are very well respected.

VINO LAS VEGAS had the opportunity to speak with winemaker Dan Karlsen as he took us through some of these legendary wines as well as a few new projects as well.
Dan Karlsen is a renowned Chardonnay and Pinot Noir specialist, who brings three decades of winemaking and viticultureal experience to his role as winemaker for Talbott Vineyards.



Dan's road to winemaking started with David Stare’s team at Dry Creek Vineyard. Dan fell in love with winemaking, and became an integral part of every aspect of the winery’s operations.

After four years with Dry Creek Vineyard, he joined Dehlinger Winery as assistant winemaker. While at Dehlinger, Dan honed his skills making Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, In 1988, he joined Claude Tattinger’s team at the newly founded Domaine Carneros. After several years of working alongside original winemaker Eileen Crane, he was promoted to winemaker in 1992—a position he held for the next five years. Dan helped to guide the winery’s acclaimed sparkling wine portfolio, while also playing a pivotal role in establishing Pinot Noir at Domaine Carneros.

In 1998, Dan was named winemaker and general manager for Monterey County’s Chalone Winery, a position he held until 2007. During his ten years at Chalone, Dan helped to revitalize the winery’s Pinot Noir program and further elevated the status of its Chardonnays.


As Dan went through the wines he pointed out the 2006 Talbott Cuvée Carlotta. Now in its third vintage, Cuvée Carlotta has quickly emerged as one of Talbott's defining wines and the
2006 vintage of Diamond T Chardonnay earned 92 points from Wine Enthusiast.
And lastly a wine made by Dan himself was unveiled . The 2008 Talbott Logan Pinot Noir. Dan explained Unlike previous vintages, which employed cold soaks and partial whole-clusters, the grapes for this wine were pressed off immediately and fermented warm. The resulting wine blends the purity and sophistication achieved through classic Old World techniques. It was a real pleasure to meet yet another legend in Monterey County and sample some great wines.
If you would like more information on want pay them a visit. Please go to http://www.talbottvineyards.com







Monterey county is so vast and provides much to our country. We departed Carmel Valley village for lunch at the esteemed Chateau Julien's Petite Chateau were we were joined by Chateau Julien's proprietor Bob Bower , Jack Galante and Dawn White proprietors from Galante Vineyards and Jane Beery from Cima Collina Wines for lunch and of course wine.







The Petite Chateau at Chateau Julien brings back memories of the French Country side.The old-world French Chateau is a replica of a home on the French-Swiss border. Beautiful stained glass embodies rich antiques with dramatic 30-foot cathedral ceilings in the Chateau’s Great Hall. French doors swing open towards the Estate Garden Cobblestone Courtyards and glass covered-Conservatory.

Chef Terry Teplitzky of Michaels Catering provided us with a delicious luncheon in the lovely vineyard. Terry's dry figs filled with blue cheese and spiced Pecans was a mouthwatering surprise. The fresh harvest rice salad with dry fruit and fetta butternut squash and green bean salad lead us into a delicious braised loin of pork with cranberry chutney that paired perfectly with the many wines at the table.

Jane Beery from Cima Colina wines took us through three of their handcrafted wines from Monterey County.
"Monterey is still a viticultural frontier where new, superb growing areas are being discovered and planted. We translate our own sense of discovery and excitement into the wines we produce through a meticulous, artisan approach to winemaking that preserves and enhances the best Monterey's vineyards have to give." Annette Hoff, Winemaker.

Winemaker Annette Hoff could not have said it better. The 2007 Cima Collina Meritage with its spphistcated fruit notes and long finish was a great way to start off . Jane moved on to their 2007 Chardonnay that delivered rich, dense flavors of ripe apple, melon and grapefruit. Being espacially know for their Pinot Noirs our anticaption grew with the next two Cima Collina wines.
Cima Collina 2006 Monterey county Pinot Noir showed off the classic notes of the appelation with and blend grapes cultivated from the Chula Viña Vineyard, Tondre Grapefield and Hilltop Ranch Vineyard. We finsihed our jouney through Cima Collina wines with the 2005 Hilltop Ranch Pinot Noir which provided us with a a powerful, dark, rich wine with aromas and flavors of plums, blueberries, leather, earth, smoke and spice.













Jack Galante was on hand as well and shared his very unique
wines as we enjoyed the Chef''s culinary delights. Jack Galante's philosophy is simple: grow the finest grapes possible and let the fruit express itself in the wine. Since all of his grapes are estate grown, each bottle of wine they produce embodies the characteristics of their unique region, exhibiting the natural flavors that are born from the land.


Jack was not messing around when we were given his 2008 Galante Sauvigon Blanc which scored 92 points from The Wine Enthusiast (Nov. 2009). Wine Enthusiast stated " This distinctive Sauvignon Blanc is from Carmel Valley… It’s utterly dry and crisp, with Citrus, Asian Pears and spices, and an intriguing floral note suggesting lavender " Jack continued on with his 2005 Almond Flat Pinot Noir which is an excellent example of a Monterey County Pinot Noir with its classic maritime influence. Jack would not be finsihed untill we had a chance to sample his 2007 Red Rose Cabernet Sauvignon that scored 90 points from The Wine Enthusiast (Nov. 2009). They commented " A very nice cab that is Bordeaux-like in its dryness, modest alcohol and tannic earthiness that grounds the blackberry and cherry fruit." Galante Vineyards and Jack Galante himself provided us with his best.

In the late 1970's, Bob and Patty Brower set out to fulfill their dream. Originally from the East Coast, they had a passion for wine and admired the French hospitality encountered while traveling in Europe. They saw the potential in Monterey County as a quality wine growing region, and in 1982 began building what is now known as Château Julien Wine Estate in Carmel Valley, California.

The winery's first release came in 1985 with Chardonnay and Merlot from the 1982 vintage. Today, the entire process of wine production takes place on the 16-acre estate, including the aging of nearly 2000 oak barrels of wine. Winemaker Bill Anderson joined the Browers in 1982, and produced the winery's first 100% Merlot with the premier vintage. Bill continues to produce wine at Château Julien Wine Estate, and has played an integral part in establishing Merlot as the winery's flagship varietal.

It was a true honor to have Bob Brower pour his own wines for us in the Chateau. Bob's Private Reserve wines signify the heritage of the winery. The label dates back to the first release of 1982 Merlot and represents the highest quality wines produced from each vintage, with only 600 six packs produced annually.

He started us off with one of these very limited wines. 2008 Private Reserve "Sur Lie" Chardonnay. Produced in traditional French “Sur Lie” style, this wine stays in contact with the lees (or inactive yeast cells) throughout 100% barrel fermentation and aging. The result is a rich, creamy Chardonnay with a round full texture.

Bob explained Chateau Juliean also produces a few specialty wines. He explained that winemaker Bill Anderson highlights select vineyard lots, unique proprietary blends and extremely limited production varietals for a exclusive collection of wines, available only through allocation or at the Wine Estate in Carmel Valley. We had the opportinuty to sample two of these highly sought after labels. The first was the 2006 Black Nova II. Black: because of the rich darkness of color it attained from the beginning. Nova: because the fruit and flavors of this wine are a “burst of brightness”, as defines the birth of a celestial Nova. Harvested in September of 2006 from the San Antonio AVA this blend of 60% Zinfandel and 40% Syrah was lovely. Being barrel aged for 16 months in new American oak this wine is BIG. The fruit aromas and flavors of raspberry burst through right away and settle into a warm , long finish due to its 15% alcohol content. This was a very elegant wine and a real pleasure to enjoy.

Bob finished us on another Chateau Julien specialty wine, the 2006 la Conviviance. This Proprietary final blend consists of 46% Merlot, 38% Malbec and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Grown in small lots, each varietal was harvested and aged separately in 60% new French Nevers and American Missouri oak barrels for fourteen months, 12 days. On the nose dark cherry and ripe blackberry comes throufg . On the pallet flavors vanilla and anise add to the soft, fruit flavors all combine for a long mouth-filing finish and beautiful deep garnet color in the glass.
After a wondefull day of exploreing Carmel Valley it was time to head back to Cannery Row.








THE FAMOUS 17 MILE DRIVE :

We discovered many treasures as we headed back to the Monterey Bay Inn on Cannery Row along the very famous 17 Mile Drive. It is one of the most scenic drives anywhere in the world. The drive , which runs through Del Monte Forest, is seventeen miles of sea and sky, immaculate golf courses, and dream homes set graciously behind elegant gates...

We stopped at The Lone Cypress where we watched the sunset and snacked on Apple Pie from the Freedom Bakery and a Pear Tart from Patisserie Boissiere Resturant in Carmel. Of course a 2006 J.Lohr Late Harvest Riseling and a 2004 Late Harvest Desert Wine Santa Lucia Highlands was a great way to end our journey to Carmel Valley . We continued our drive by Seal and Bird Rocks, Fanshell Beach, Point Joe, as well as the natural habitat of the black cormorants, brown pelicans, California sea otters, harbor seals, and idle sea lions.

We saw the the the emerald fairways of such famous golf courses as The Links at Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links. The Monterey Bay Inn looked better than ever but the day was not quite over.

The Santa Antonio Valley in and around the Bradley-Lockwood area at the southernmost tip of Monterey County is the newest th AVA in the county and was designated as an official American Viticultural Area in June of 2007. Since then it has undergone a renaissance as growers and winemakers have come to rediscover the area’s suitability for growing robust, fully mature fruit. This area has attained a growing reputation for producing intensely flavored, complex wines of the sort more often associated with Paso Robles than with Monterey.

We stopped in the newly opened tasting room of PIERCE Ranch Vineyards located right off of Cannery Row and met with owner Josh Pierce as we sampled from great seafood from Chef Bert Cutino , Chef at the Sardine Factory which is famous throughout the world.

Josh explained that Pierce Ranch Vineyards is a small, family-owned operation in a highland valley at the southernmost tip of Monterey County. Their plantings consist of a mix of Bordeaux, Rhone, and Iberian varietals that have been selected not only for their ability to excel in their climate, but also for their complementary qualities. Even though their AVA is perfectly suited to producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel, They also produce Spanish and Portuguese varietals such as Tempranillo and Touriga Nacional and are always exploring their potential.



Josh started us out with the 2008 Albarino . The grapes were fermented in stainless steel at low temperatures. In the glass it is light bodied and on the nose aromas of slate and apricot give way to lemon. This Albarino reflects its terrior with refreshing citrus notes and minerality on the finish. We were not familiar with the varietal of Cosecheiro which was the next wine we explored.

Cosecheiro is a blend that derives its name from the Spanish cosechero, referring to the small, independent winegrowers of the Iberian Peninsula. The 2006 Cosecherio is a blend of 48% Tempranillo, 42% Touriga, 10% Tinto Cão of which only 60 cases were produced. Moderate tannins come through with aromas and flavors of cherry and plum are accented by notes of clove, and cocoa on the finish.

Tempranillo is a varietal that we are very familiar with. The Pierce Ranch 2006 Tempranillo is a blend of 94.2% Tempranillo, 4.3% Syrah, 1.5% Grenache of which only 135 cases were produced.

This Tempranillo with its medium tannins, velvety texture, and bright fruit, show similar to a Pinot Noir. Cherry and raspberry combine with notes of cola, and a touch of floral notes on the finish and shows very nicely.

Josh once again showed us a varietal that we have not had too much experience with , Touriga. "Touriga" is the name applied to a pair of Portuguese varietals that create exceptional wines prized for their richness and remarkable aromatics.. Though U.S. labeling laws only allow the use of the generic term "Touriga", this designation usually refers to either one or both of the two varietals known in Portugal as Touriga Francesa and Touriga Nacional. The Pierce 2006 Touriga is a blend of 70% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Francesa and only 97 cases were produced. Dark in color and large bodied , the 2006 vintage is defined by rich blueberry and raspberry with accents of starfruit, clove, cinnamon, and creme brulee. Notes of cocoa , earth and ripe fruit all combine with soft tannins on the finish.




It was a real pleasure to met a young , upstart vineyard owner from one of the newest AVAs in the US. Pierce Ranch , in our opinion is off to a great start and could be the next rising star.

With the long but wonderful day coming to an end , memories of this day will linger with us for a long time. But, there is always the Grand Finale to come.

The 13th Annual Monterey Great Wine Escape weekend ends with a Finale like none other.

The newly opened InterContinental Hotel located right in the middle of Cannery Row was the site for the Grand Finale Tasting, and what a way to end our education of the diversity of Monterey County.


Thirty wineries , many well known and others just starting out combined with over a dozen of the areas top restaurants and their chefs for a wine and foodie dream to end the weekend.




Scott from VINO LAS VEGAS spoke with Rhonda Motil , Executive Director of the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association at the finale and recapped the weekend journey through this very diverse and important county.

























In addition to sampling food and wine from this one of a kind region Vino Las Vegas had the distinct privilege of meeting an American legend, Phil Woodward.

Phil Woodward and Richard Graff helped make world wine making history at the Paris tasting of 1976. One of the California wines that turned the wine world on its ear was Chalone Chardonnay 1974 which placed third behind Meursault Charmes Roulot 1973 from France and of course Chateau Montelena 1973. Woodward and Graff founded Chalone and helped get California wines world wine recognition. We spoke with Phil about that historic occasion in 1976 and about his new project at Graff Winery and his foundation.









1976 Judgement of Paris Results.
Rank Grade Wine Vintage Origin

1. Chateau Montelena 1973 United States
2. Meursault Charmes Roulot 1973 France
3. Chalone Vineyard 1974 United States
4. Spring Mountain Vineyard 1973 United States
5. Beaune Clos des Mouches Joseph Drouhin 1973 France
6. Freemark Abbey Winery 1972 United States
7. Batard-Montrachet Ramonet-Prudhon 1973 France
8. Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles Domaine Leflaive 1972 France
9. Veedercrest Vineyards 1972 United States
10. David Bruce Winery 1973 United States



From our base at The Monterey Bay Inn on Cannery Row we explored Monterey county where over 200 years ago, the Franciscan friars planted the region’s first wine grapes near the Soledad Mission.



Not until the 1960s, did the modern-era in Monterey viticulture begin. Pioneering growers and vintners like Mirassou and Wente were the first in, soon followed by many others. Today, Monterey County boasts over 175 unique vineyards, planted to over 50 different grape varieties.



Our journey did not just include wine but also took us to the fields of the Salinas Valley and a visit to D'Arrigo Brothers who for generations have grown and harvested
our nations vegetables. And of course you cannot mention this area with out mentioning John Steinbeck in the same breath.




Monterey County is the most unique area of the United Sates we have had the pleasure of exploring. The beauty of Monterey Bay , the history of Steinbeck , Carmel Valley coming into its own , Cannery Row , The Farms of the Salinas Valley and certainly great Food and Wine provide visitors and guests with a plethora of magnificent choices when you visit. For more information on Monterey Bay please visit http://www.montereywines.org