Monterey County (North of Los Angeles and South of San Francisco) is the largest wine country in California. This County encompasses geography ranging from the steep slopes of Carmel Valley to the hills of Salinas Valley. Although the first grapes were planted here centuries ago, modern viticulture began in the 1960s. Today, this region has more than 40,000 acres of vineyards, but only about 30 wineries. Many of these wineries have tasting rooms and several offer tours. About 40% of the total grape acreage is produced to make Chardonnay. Other regional wines include, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Blanc in the North part of Monterey and Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Zinfandel are from the Southern part of the county.
Events in Monterey County include the Celebration of Chocolate & Wine in June, Annual Winemakers' Celebration in August, Days of Wine & Roses in September, the Annual Great Wine Escape in November, and Wine & Wreaths in December. Other wine-related activities occur year-round, also. In between drinking gourmet wines and dining on fresh seafood, there are plenty of other things to do. Celebrate John Steinbeck’s work during the Steinbeck Film Festival. Numerous live music, ranging from jazz to rock, events take place all summer. For sport enthusiasts, participate in the Wildflower Long Course Triathlon, the 25-mile Tour de Fort Ord Bike Ride, or the Pebble Beach Equestrian Challenge Horse Show. Other things to see include the Monterey Bay Bird Festival, Wild Things, an exotic animal training facility, Fishermen's Wharf, the Aquarium, the famous 17-mile Drive on the Monterey Pennisula and, of course, go shopping on Cannery Row in Monterey.
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