August is popular for many reasons on the Monterey Peninsula with events such as the Concours d’ Elegance and the beginning of Indian Summer, but did you know that August is also the start of wine harvest season? Picking is expected to begin this month on the central coast for this years wine crop, while the harvest for sparkling wine has already begun. With a climate that is so conducive to growing, it’s no wonder that Monterey County is a fast growing wine region in California. Unlike Sonoma, Napa, and other areas, Monterey still has room to grow. After heavy winter rains and recent mild temperatures, experts say this is bound to be a solid season for Monterey County wine. Industry leaders say that with continued winter rains and milder summers, Monterey wine will continue to grow in popularity, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay being the leading grapes. Harvest will begun this month and wrap up in October. Be sure to get a taste of the local crop by visiting Carmel Ridge Winery Tasting Room and A Taste of Monterey located on Cannery Row, or by strolling along the Wine Walk in Carmel by the Sea, or take a drive out to Carmel Valley and visit many wineries that the Central Coast has to offer.