June 2006

Dear Wine Industry Colleague,

Greetings from Monterey County! Now that the rainy weather has finally tapered off, we are well into the growing season here. Early indications point to a smaller and later-than-normal harvest of high quality; we’ll keep you posted as we get closer to the ’06 Harvest.

Our just-completed Monterey Wine Country press, trade and consumer tastings in Phoenix, Las Vegas and Monterey supplied us with the theme for this summer’s media samples shipment. Guests flocked to the tasting tables to learn more about our wine region and, in particular, several of the newer “boutique” vintners that they were unfamiliar with. Recently, there has been explosion of small, artisan wineries in Monterey, capitalizing on the quality and diversity of fruit from our various appellations. There are sure to be a few brands available in our shipment that you have not yet tried, as their production levels are so small they may not have ever sent out press samples before. These small, hands-on operations offer a wealth of unique story and profile opportunities that have, until now, “flown under the radar screen.”

Our list of “boutique” members available in the shipment includes a selection of producers that craft less than 10,000 cases a year – over 65% of our vintners fall within this category. It’s a talented, intriguing group, often working with more obscure varietals, little known vineyards, and proprietary blends – whatever suits their fancy and personal palate. It is a group deserving of your attention and one that we are proud to showcase.

Best Regards,
Rhonda Motil
Executive Director

P.O. Box 1793
Monterey, CA 93942
Phone: 831.375.9400
Fax: 831.375.1116

Email: rmotil@montereywines.org