The natural wonders of Monterey County—including the rugged setting of Big Sur—are what make the wines here so special. And even though the region is relatively young by winemaking standards, the world is taking notice.
Chardonnay is particularly prized here, as the varietal makes up 40% of Monterey County vineyard acreage. But Pinot Noir, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot are quite common as well. What you’ll notice about the wines produced here is the distinct “varietal flavor,” meaning the flavor of the grapes truly shine through in each sip. It’s a combination of the soil, the climate, and of course, the care that creates this unique experience.
While it might seem that wine has been produced here forever, this didn’t become a winemaking region in earnest until the 1960s, when a report classified Monterey County as a growing region in the same league as Napa, Burgundy, and other world-famous regions. (Monks introduced wine grapes here about 200 years ago, but as you can imagine, their purposes were not commercial in nature.)
Today, more than half a century later, the area is burgeoning—it’s been honored as a worldwide top 10 wine travel destination by Wine Enthusiast magazine, and wine has become a key driver of tourism for the region.
Ventana Big Sur, secluded among towering redwoods yet within easy driving distance of the region’s top wineries, is the ideal setting for your next wine-tasting escape. Luxurious meals and amenities are included with every stay, and our own wine cellar features thousands of bottles—including some of the region’s best.
Book your wine-country stay today.
Book Now