Wineries/tasting rooms in Carmel and Carmel Valley source from vineyards in various Monterey County AVAs. Monterey’s diverse microclimates and soils enable a wide variety of grapes to thrive and each Monterey AVA is renowned for different varietals, so check bottle labels and talk to the tasting room host for appellation info on the wines you’re tasting.
Here’s a quick guide on some of my favorite AVAs and recommended varietals to try:
Carmel Valley AVA is known full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah thanks to its warm climate, unique soil, and high elevation.
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, a cool climate district, produces highly regarded Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Arroyo Seco AVA wines tend to be good quality and good value. Try Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Bordeaux and Rhone varietals.
These are just general guidelines and you’ll find other great wines from each of these AVAs so have fun sampling a variety and comparing/contrasting their flavor profiles.
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