The Central Coast AVA is my choice for Wine Region of the Month for many different reasons; 1. The wide variety of grapes grown 2. The vast area that it spans over California 3. Dubbed Wine Region of the Year from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
The Central Coast AVA spans from San Francisco all the way down to Los Angeles area. With that span of length it can grow a vast majority of grapes dominantly growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Merlot close behind, the different soil, weather conditions, mountains and valley's give way to so many wonderful varietals grown from North to South. Growing roughly 15% of the states grapes, over 90,000 acres are planted wine grapes and has over 360+ wineries ranging from mass producers to family owned estates, all with their own beauty and charm.
San Francisco to Monterey, consists of some of the biggest counter culture areas of California with Santa Cruz and San Francisco leading the way. Monterey, Spanish Bay, Carmel, Pebble Beach and Big Sur lie within the beautiful oceanside counties but you can't forget about Contra Costa, San Benito and Alemeda either. Producing predominantly Chardonnay, there is over 6400 acres of different planted wine grapes. The cool coastal climate creates small concentrated clusters that produce low yields but big flavors. Mostly consisting of well drained gravely soil, my suggestion is try finding Pinot Noir or Chardonnay from Monterey, for the money you won't be disappointed.
A little further down the historic 101 freeway you find the humble yet rapidly growing Paso Robles. Paso Robles was named the 2013 Wine Region of the year from Wine Enthusiast Mag for the second time in 3 years. Quite impressive since usually people don't know where this is, well the secret is definitely out now. I read an article last year in Wine Enthusiast about 5 major wine regions, they named Paso Robles the Bohemia style town of wine making for its low key nature and laid back, humble style. Rhone style wines and blends have been thriving more and more in this area considering the warm sunny days and cool nights play huge factors in the outcome, but rest assured the Cabernet Saugvignon and bordeaux style wines are no slouch either. Mountains, valley's, rolling hills and ocean breeze are what you will find here considering it is only 10 miles off the coast yet has such a major climate change. From small estate wineries like Wild Coyote to mass production wineries like Justin, you can be more than sure you will find something that fits your style and budget.
Northern San Luis Obispo county Santa Barbera is your quintessential Spanish style setting on the water. Great restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, tourist attractions are all here. Santa Barbera is your upscale city on the water is a destination you have to see if you come to California nestled between Los Angeles and Paso Robles you have the opportunity to hit some of the best wine regions in the Southern and Central parts of California. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the main staple grapes you can find with over 12,000 acres planted between the two. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are also great here with cool climate growing conditions. With wineries like Latetia in Arroyo Grande, Cambria in Santa Maria Valley and Wente in Santa Barbera, just to name a few, you will never be bored in the Central Coast.
Whether you are coming with family or just on a romantic getaway the Central Coast is one of California's hidden gems. From restaurants and recreation to wineries and relaxation, don't overlook this captivating area. Cheers!
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