Wineries / Wine Tasting

Click here for a list of Wineries and Wine-Tasting Rooms
Click here for a map of the Monterey County Tasting Rooms and Wineries (PDF format)

With over 40,000 acres of wine grapes planted, Monterey County has established itself as one of the premier wine-producing regions in California. In addition to the many well-known labels which are crafting varietal wines here in Monterey County, you’ll find a host of boutique wineries whose wines are treasures little known away from the West Coast.

Plan to spend at least one full afternoon each visiting tasting rooms in the Salinas Valley or Carmel Valley. CCME (831-646-5952), Associated Hosts (831-649-5115), Ag Venture Tours (831-643-WINE) and the Wine Trolley, a daily tour from Portola Plaza to Carmel Valley (831-624-1700) offer group tours to fit your schedule and budget. You can leave the driving and map-reading to your guide, so you can relax and enjoy sipping our region’s award-winning wines.

Many wineries offer facility tours, winemaker dinners, special events and concerts. Check our Food and Wine Events Calendar for some suggestions, or visit the wineries’ individual websites for details.

If you’re short on time, you can taste wines from many different Monterey County wineries by visiting A Taste of Monterey – Wine Visitors’ Centers on Cannery Row or on Main Street in downtown Salinas. Wine From the Heart, in downtown Monterey, also stocks many regional wines, with some available for tasting. If you simply want to track down a wine you loved at dinner, try Terranova Fine Wines.

For more information on planning your own wine escape, please visit Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association or call 831-375-9400 for a Wine Country brochure complete with winery listings, tasting events and a map.

Wine grapes were first introduced in Monterey County well over 200 years ago by the Franciscan Friars near the Soledad Mission in southern Monterey County. They discovered early that the county’s ideal growing climate—midday heat tempered by morning and late afternoon fog—was perfect for developing the intense fruit flavor winemakers covet.

Today, approximately 40 different wineries have operations in Monterey County, including giants Robert Mondavi and E.J. Gallo and boutique operations like Paraiso Springs, Smith & Hook, and Scheid Vineyards.