For Immediate Release
Rhonda Motil
MCVGA
831-375-9400

Monterey Wine Country Selected to Lead Panel Discussions at the California Wine Fair in Canada

First collective effort of Monterey County Vintners in the Canadian market

Monterey County, CA- February 24, 2004 - The Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association (MCVGA) is pleased to announce that it has been selected to lead the panel presentations to open the California Wine Fair. MCVGA members will be discussing the growing Monterey County wine region in Vancouver on February 24 and in Calgary on February 27. This is the first collaborative initiative by MCVGA members in the Canadian market. MCVGA members participating in the panel include Monterra, J. Lohr Winery, Blackstone Winery, and Hames Valley Vineyards.

The California Wine Fair began as a single city event in Ottawa, Ontario, in 1980. Now in its 24th year, the California Wine Fair is the largest national wine tasting tour in Canada. This year, more than 90 wineries will participate in at least some part of the spring tour, pouring over 300 wines in eight cities from coast-to-coast. The range of wine includes products currently available in the market as well as new vintages and varietals that have yet to be released. The Wine Fairs are organized by the Canadian office of the Wine Institute of California, an association of more than 600 wineries and affiliated businesses.

In support of the California Wine Fair, MCVGA has also been selected to lead a panel at the Savour Wine and Food Experience on February 28. The Savour Wine & Food Experience is the annual celebration of gourmet delights in Calgary's downtown epicurean center. The Monterey Wine Country discussion will focus on the uniqueness of Monterey by explaining the history of the region, the seven AVA's within Monterey, and the different climates, soils and varietals from the region. Guests will also be able to taste the award winning wine from the region.

Information on Monterey Wine Country's participation at the California Wine Fair events can be obtained by contacting Rhonda Motil, Executive Director of MCVGA, at 831.375.9400.

About MCVGA

The Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association (MCVGA) brings together the talents and resources of members, partners and our community in order to promote and support our leadership in the art, the science and the business of wine. Founded in 1974, MCVGA is a non-profit organization representing over 65 vintners and growers in Monterey County. To find out additional information about the members of MCVGA please call 831-375-9400 or visit online at www.montereywines.org