Chalone Vineyard was one of the first wineries to recognize the potential of Chardonnay from Monterey County. With moderate winters and a maritime influenced climate, Monterey has one of the coolest, most consistent growing seasons in the state, ideal for this thin-skinned varietal. Chalone Monterey's Chardonnay grapes come from the northern Salinas Valley, in the Arroyo Seco American Viticultural Area, and other cool, well-drained sites auspiciously influenced by the wind and fog that carry the cool Pacific air down the valley. Here, budbreak is generally early and the growing season long, allowing the grapes to hang on the vine and develop slowly for ripe, flavorful Chardonnay with a nice core of acidity.
