Escape the ordinary at Monterey Wine Country’s Great Wine Escape Weekend, November 13th-15th, 2009.  This annual tradition, presented by the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association and Wine Enthusiast Magazine, celebrates Monterey County’s world-class wines and gastronomic delights crafted by nationally recognized chefs during a weekend of unbeatable events. Monterey County’s lifestyle and wines are defined by the cooling influence of the ocean and especially of Monterey Bay and its very deep marine canyon, whose immensity and depth have earned it the nickname, “The Blue Grand Canyon™.”  More than fifty acclaimed wineries will showcase their wines, reflecting the quality of the region’s nine distinct American Viticulture Areas. Here’s a sneak peek at some of this year’s events:

Palate Pleasers, Join Robert Bleifer, Executive Chef of Food Network; Jerry Regester, Chef of The InterContinental, The Clement Hotel Monterey; Jeff Jake, Executive Chef of The Carneros Inn; and Mark Ainsworth, Chef/Owner of Pastry Smart; for two interactive seminars and a four-course lunch paired with Monterey County wines.

Winemaker Dinners, Monterey County wineries will collaborate with local restaurants to provide exquisite dinners

Winery Open Houses and Guided Tours, Visit the tasting rooms of Monterey County and enjoy hospitality, special pourings, and select barrel samples.  Navigate on your own or let our luxury coaches guide the way. 

Blending Seminar /Riedel Tasting Seminar, Be a winemaker for a day as you explore the challenges of blending a signature bottle of wine and elevate your tasting experience with a sensory glass seminar led by Riedel Crystal.

The Great Wine Escape Finale, This showcase event will feature barrel samples and reserve wines from over Monterey County wineries, food samplings, and celebrity and local chef cooking demonstrations.

Discover the wine region the wine region on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, bursting with diversity, charm and great tasting wine! For additional information on Monterey Wine Country and to order tickets, please visit www.montereywines.org, or call (831) 375-9400