Monterey is a cooler climate area south of California’s San Francisco, where grapes enjoy basking in the chilly air of Monterey Bay. It’s a perfect region for growing pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, producing austere, citrus and tropical fruit flavors like in this La Crema example. Creamy texture, grilled pineapple and ripe brie round out the taste orgasm. 3.5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=3 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $24
Taylor is a self-proclaimed Southern foodie, turned Californian food, wine, and gardening hipster.