by Laurie Daniel
September 20, 2006

The vast Central Coast appellation of California comprises one of three regional coastal appellations; North, Central and South. Each highly different in their own rights, the Central Coast presents the greatest span of California and has tremendous diversity within. Monterey and the Salinas Valley are a huge part of the grape production and harbor from the smallest boutiques to supplying some of the biggest producers. Chardonnay took the lead but time will sort out this regions best selections.

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by Clark Smith
January 12, 2009



You can’t make money in this region. These tiny labors of love exist for one purpose only – excellence. Whether they’re ego-driven or on a spiritual quest, these guys (including plenty of extraordinary women) are the real deal. And that's exactly what the results of our Best-of-Appellation tasting of Bordeaux varietals proved.

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by Dan Berger
April 25, 2007

The 7 sub appellations of Lodi begin to define the diversity within the larger appellation as wineries begin to make specific wines from each region

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by Laura Ness
February 5, 2007

Dr. Ricardo Aguirre, MD, is quite frank: He’s in the wine business, and that wasn’t his intention. He really just wanted to grow a few grapes so he could have something to do after he retired. Now, at 2,350 cases per year and growing; if he ever retires, he’ll be working harder than he may have planned. But wine is an incredibly seductive thing, and once you start planting vineyards, picking fruit, adding the yeast, and selecting the barrels, you are hooked.

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