The Monterey Vineyards by Chalone
“A recognized pioneer, and the oldest bonded winery in Monterey, Chalone Vineyard is the one-and-only winery in the Chalone appellation.
While the grapes for Chalone Vineyard Estate come from their high mountain estate, the grapes for the Monterey County wines come from distinct vineyards in the 75-mile long Salinas Valley, which begins in Monterey Bay and runs southeastward. Ancient volcanoes, active faultsand tectonic plate movement created the Santa Lucia and Gavilan Mountain ranges, which flank the valley. The mountains form a wind tunnel, drawing cool ocean breezes off the Pacific Ocean into the valley. The cool air causes the vines to shut down and delays ripening of the grapes, leading to a longer growing season and hang time that results in intense fruit flavors. Soils in the valley are varied and include compositions of gravelly loam, sand, decomposed granite and limestone. This combination of well-drained soils, early-morning fog, warm afternoon sun and cool ocean air make the region ideal.
The winemaking team was excited at the opportunity to explore the diverse appellations in Salinas Valley to create the Chalone Vineyard Monterey County Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Not a newcomer to Monterey County, Chalone Vineyard Monterey County wines capture the rich and voluptuous fruit flavors that Monterey County’s unique microclimates and extremely long hang time can provide.”
The Monterey Vineyards Chardonnay 2013
Monterey County, California. “In our Chardonnay, bright, fruit-focused flavors keep cadence with sweet essence of oak. Baked pear, Braeburn apple and sweet tangerine are accented by wafts of floral and nutmeg. Well-balanced, the fruit remains bright and crisp, complemented by just enough oak to lend structure and complexity. This wine’s versatility makes it pleasant for sipping as well as a perfect complement to sautéed scallops or stuffed chicken breast.” $9.99
The Monterey Vineyards Pinot Noir 2013
Monterey County, California. “Fragrant heirloom roses, ripe black cherries and a touch of tobacco invite the senses into this approachable and enjoyable Pinot Noir. The red fruit brightens across the palate, picking up raspberry and spice. Soft and silky through the middle, the wine crescendos on the finish, leaving a vibrant, juicy memory in the mouth—an excellent match to wild mushroom flatbread drizzled with a touch of truffle oil.” $9.99
The Monterey Vineyards Merlot 2012
Monterey County, California. “This supple, full-flavored Merlot features a fine-tuned acidity that lifts and accentuates a brooding dark-fruit core. Juicy black cherry spreads thick across the middle and is joined by spicy clove and sweet vanilla notes. The velvety tannins span the medium-long finish for a well-balanced, mouthwatering finale. This approachable, enjoyable Merlot makes a fine companion to roasted game, pasta or rich risotto.” $9.99
The Monterey Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Monterey County, California. “Our Cabernet Sauvignon opens with dark fruit aromas, cassis, fragrant oak and a touch of black licorice. On the entry, the full-bodied fruit glides across the palate, layering rich blackberry and red stone fruit stitched with vanilla, oak and spice. The flavors linger through the finish, where they are met by fleshy tannins and good acidity. The rich body and well-balanced flavors of this wine pair nicely with dishes featuring good acidity, such as pasta tossed with roasted tomatoes, capers and olives.” $9.99