Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir has a reputation. Growers consider it temperamental, perhaps even downright fussy – and they have since before Michael J. Fox was a sitcom star. In Monterey County, however, vineyards produce consistent fruit thanks to a growing season shaped by the “Blue Grand Canyon” – that deep vault in the seabed of Monterey Bay. This results in wine with vibrant cherry flavors balanced by a grassy bite, hints of spice and wild meadowland and other subtle notes. Essentially, this starting point gives local winemakers a lot to play with in terms of fermentation and aging. So every winery has a fine Pinot to show off. And who could blame them for boasting a bit?