We arrived in Monterey on Wednesday morning (June 13) and had a few hours available before we needed to check in to the hotel and get ready for the aforementioned International Tasting.

It was a beautiful day as we drove down the coast in our convertible rental car (what a treat!). The car’s thermometer was quite interesting as it swiftly changed from a high of 89 degrees Farenheit to a much cooler 65 degrees, all within the span of an hour.

The temperature change was illustrative of the unique climatic conditions that influence the area. Inland, on the western side of the mountain ranges, there is no direct connection to the coast and the temperature is hot. Moving to the eastern side of the mountains, and thus, along the coast, the cold current of the Pacific Ocean pushes fog and cool air across the area.

Accordingly, much of the area is under fog for part of the day and the temperatures reflect the cooling influence. Moreover, a break in the mountain range permits the cool air to penetrate the valley. As a result, this area can grow grapes that prefer cooler climates such as Pinot Noir and Riesling. This explains why the Central Coast can be cooler than the Northern Coast despite its more southern location.

While I had read extensively about climatic influence when studying for my exams, it wasn’t until I experienced it so dramatically firsthand that I truly understood the power of ocean breezes, mountains and other geography. It was truly amazing to see it all in action.