Vineyard Diary

Monterey County truly is a treasure chest of vineyards and wineries, and, with over 40,000 acres planted to winegrapes, is also one of the largest and most diverse wine regions in California, boasting some of the most gifted winemakers in the world.

Adam LaZarre of, Hahn Estates/Smith & Hook, is an excellent case in point. Hahn Estates regularly takes top honors in the world's most prestigious wine competitions--just this weekend winning best of competition at the LA County Fair Wines of the World Competition with Cycles Gladiator, Syrah, 2004; and best Meritage with Hahn Estates, Santa Lucia Highlands, 2004.

Monterey County is currently home to eight AVA's (American Viticultural Areas): Monterey, Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, San Lucas, Hames Valley, Carmel Valley, San Bernabe and Chalone, with a ninth pending--you guessed it, our very own San Antonio Valley!

Monterey County has long been famous for its cooler climate varietals, and is now gaining recognition for regions such as the San Antonio Valley, where a much warmer climate allows growers to produce outstanding Rhone and Bordeaux varietals.

There are a number of excellent, practically undiscovered, award winning wines grown in the San Antonio Valley--a veritable treasure trove of discovery for the wine adventurer, and definitely a region to keep your eye on.

More information about the San Antonio Valley can be found at www.escafeld.com and www.montereywines.org.