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Monterey produces over 40 different grape varietals, each with intense varietal characteristics from the concentrated fruit grown in the diverse soils and microclimates of the county. From the lighter Rhone varietals of San Bernabe, to the huge Bordeaux varieties out of the protected river beds and warmer southern region, Monterey stands out amongst other premier wine growing regions.

Of the 45,000 planted acres in Monterey County, the majority of them are assigned to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.  Smaller lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Blanc are also producing world-class wines. The longer growing season contributes to the fruitiness of the wines which means Monterey is home to 60% of the Johannesburg Riesling grapes produced in California.