For Immediate Release
Rhonda Motil
MCVGA
831-375-9400

Monterey's Wine Country Passport Weekend is a Success

Wine enthusiasts flocked to Beautiful Monterey County to enjoy Valentine's Day Weekend

Monterey County, CA- February 17, 2004 - Monterey Wine Country's Second Annual Passport Weekend, which occurred February 13-15, 2004, proved to be a wonderful experience for guests to the region, as well as for locals who were discovering all that Monterey Wine Country has to offer. The passport program allowed guests to enjoy wine, food, and entertainment over the three day weekend.

"Our second year of hosting the Passport Weekend exceeded everyone's expectations. What a great opportunity to showcase Passport Weekend - Monterey style," stated Monterey Vintners and Growers Association's (MCVGA) Events Director, Tamara Weinstein. "The combination of great wines, the holiday weekend, and fabulous entertainment - which included everything from art exhibits to jazz bands - made for a truly memorable experience for all."

Each guest received a wine country passport, a picture at their starting location, and a Monterey wine glass as a memento of the weekend. Participants received stamps at each location that they visited and they were then entered into a grand prize drawing featuring over $1500 worth of Monterey Wine Country specialties. The weekend also included winemaker dinners at Carmel Chop House, The Monterey Bay Aquarium, and The Monterey Mariott.

"Wow, this is amazing! We visit 17 wineries, meet friendly people (and some characters!), sip luscious wines, nibble some great munchies, take home a box of chocolates, and we win the grand prize. We haven't worked this hard in a long time," stated gift basket winners Marianne and Dick Glosenberg of Salinas, California. "What a terrific event - and perfect weather! Sign us up for next year."

MCVGA sponsors several events throughout the year. Please contact the MCVGA office at 831.375.9400 for details about The D' vine Wine Affair in June, The Winemakers' Celebration in August and The Great Wine Escape in November.

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