1. FY13 Brand Plan
Monterey Series

2. Pinot Gris Chardonnay Pinot Noir
Monterey, just beginning to hit its stride as a wine region, displays something altogether different. Fierce daily wind, rocky soils and one of the most moderate growing seasons in the state (the second-longest, behind the Santa Maria Valley) promote a tropical, richly textured quality in the Chardonnay and a distinct earthiness in the otherwise fruit-driven Pinot Noirs.
Pinot Gris
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir
Lush and Fruit-Forward with a Broad Mineral Anchor “Opens with bright aromas of lemon zest, complemented by more subtle notes of honeysuckle, Asian pear and spice. The balanced, broad palate is layered with flavors of ripe apricot, lemon drop and cantaloupe, with Monterey’s classic mineral undertones of wet river stone.”
Exotic citrus & crisp apple, balanced by a sweet and spicy finish. “This wine opens with layered aromas of jasmine, tropical fruit, fresh white peach and ripe citrus. On the palate,
flavors of melon and ripe pear take center stage, framed by hints of mango, vanilla custard and wet river stone. A broad mouthfeel beautifully balances the juicy acidity.”
Juicy, dark plum intertwined with earth and mineral notes. “This outstanding vintage gave us a complex nose that offers up both savory and sweet tones; ripe plum and forest floor aromas are highlighted by notes of violet and cocoa powder. On the palate, pomegranate and blackberry take center stage, highlighted by notes of anise and mocha. The well-integrated acidity and ne-grained tannins create an elegantly structured wine.”
ELIZABETH GRANT-DOUGLAS, WINEMAKER

3. Monterey AVA Nuances Size 35,758 acres AVA ratified 1984 Climate
Region I to low Region II < 2,501 – 2,750*
* Winkler & Amerine heat degree summation system
Unique climate characteristics
The ocean off Monterey Bay is deep and 50° F (cold even for CA). The cool air is drawn into the MO valley, which warms as it head south (beyond the vineyards). Wind is also a big factor here, inhibiting vine photosynthesis.
Sub-AVA’s (partly or fully encompassed)
San Lucas, Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, San Benito, Chalone, Mount Harlan
Distinguishing features
Key geographic feature: the Salinas Valley, running north from the Monterey Bay to the south. Two mtn ranges form the E/W barriers (Gavilan and Santa Lucia); all the best vineyards are on benchlands on either side.
Soils
Gravelly, sandy loams. Primary parent material--decomposed granite. Formed through glacial movement and alluvial deposits.
Rainfall
6 to 8 inches per year, which is seen as a bonus because of the ensuing control over irrigation. Salinas Valley has a giant aquifer running underneath, ensuring a plentiful water supply.
Benchmark Wineries & Negociants for CH and PN
Bernardus, Brosseau Wines, Calera, Chalone, J. Lohr, Loring, Mer Soleil, Michaud, Morgan Winery, Pisoni Vineyard, ROAR, Robert Talbott, Siduri, Testarossa
Benchmark Growers for CH and PN
Brosseau, Gary’s, Pisoni, Rosella’s, Vista Verde