Best Wine Experiences Near Monterey, California

Do you love wine? Well, the area near Monterey, California is a premier wine region, most especially for pinot grigio. The climate is ideal - for that grape. However, this isn't the only high quality wine that is produced in the area. According to MontereyWines.org, there are eighty five wineries and grape producers in the area.

Though some of these growers ship their grapes elsewhere, such as to Napa Valley, some of them do produce wines of their own. And, some of these wineries have tasting rooms. I've been a visitor of a good number of these, and I've come away from my wine tasting experiences with a few of my favorites.

Wine from the Heart
Portola Plaza, Monterey, CA

While this isn't a winery, it is a wonderful boutique shop that offers all California vintages. The knowledgeable staff is fun to talk to and is ready to help you make the best purchase for your palate. They also offer a wine club which is worth considering. Don't want to buy a bottle? Sip a glass of wine in their shop and find a seat by the fireplace.

Hahn Estates
Soledad, CA

Hahn is by far my favorite winery in the area. I've visited the tasting room on many occasions and love the friendly atmosphere and tasty wines. Is it the wine that makes the atmosphere friendly, or do the people make the wine taste better? It doesn't matter because the only thing that's important is that I find the place worth visiting, and often.

Chateau Julian
Carmel, Valley CA

Just south of Monterey on Carmel Valley Road lies Chateau Julian - a beautiful French estate inspired winery who boasts one of my favorite Gewurtztraminers in the area. The main building really does look like a Chateau. Of course, there's a fee for the tasting but here's a little tip - if you book a tour, the tour is free and you get to taste wines while on it. You can also buy wine by the glass so if you want to bring a picnic lunch, you can enjoy it with your wine.

Highlands Inn, Hyatt
Carmel, CA

This is one of the best places in the area to watch the sunset. Though it is on the other side of the street from the ocean, the hotel is up high enough. You don't see the road, just the ocean. They also have an award winning wine list and a wonderful menu. Look at their events calendar and visit the lounge or go there for dinner or just a few glasses of wine. Hyatt is good for all of these.

Enjoying wine in the Monterey is not hard. With these ideas, you'll get the most out of what the region has to offer.