MW●MONTEREY
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Wine, without the homework

Follow your
curiosity.

A friendly guide to what’s in the glass and how to make a tasting your own.

What grows here?

Monterey’s coastal influence and varied valleys create room for many styles. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are common starting points, but ask what else the producer is excited to pour. A tasting flight can tell you more than a list of tasting notes.

01

Pinot Noir

Often associated with the cooler coastal-influenced growing areas. Compare bright, delicate examples with richer ones.

02

Chardonnay

It can be crisp and mineral or rounder and textured. Ask how the wine was made, then decide which style you prefer.

03

Syrah

A chance to explore darker fruit, spice, and savory character. Taste it beside a lighter red for contrast.

04

Beyond the familiar

Look for other grapes, blends, and sparkling wines. Monterey rewards a little curiosity.

How to taste

  1. Look. Notice the color, without trying to decode everything.
  2. Smell. Give the glass a gentle swirl and name whatever comes to mind.
  3. Sip. Notice freshness, texture, and how long the flavor lasts.
  4. Ask. Which vineyard is it from? What makes this vintage different? What would you pair with it?

Make it personal

There is no score to get right. Tell the host what you enjoy, ask for a comparison, and write down the bottle you would happily open again. Spitting or sharing a flight is perfectly fine when you have more stops ahead.

Find a tasting room ↗