MONTEREY COUNTY

Situated in the larger Central Coast American Viticulture Area (AVA), Monterey's funnel-shaped winegrowing area stretches 100 miles from Monterey Bay in the North to Paso Robles at the southern end. This region is greatly influenced by cooling breezes from Monterey Bay, which contribute to a lengthy growing season and grapes with characteristically intense flavors. Bud break typically occurs two weeks earlier and harvest takes place two weeks later than neighboring regions, giving the grapes an extra month on the vine to develop their characteristically intense flavors.

Chardonnay is by far the most planted variety here, accounting for half of the region's grape production. It's not surprising our winemakers turn to Monterey for Chardonnay grapes; they display an ideal balance of
sugar and acid, and they give our Ghost Pines Chardonnay
its bright lemon undertones.