It may surprise some to discover that California's Central Coast is a prime wine-grape growing region and home to more than 100 wineries, many of them recognized around the world for their fine vintages.

The wineries have built on a century-old tradition started by Franciscan friars, who planted the earliest vineyards on the Central Coast. The Catholic fathers recognized that the lush hillsides and fertile valleys, cooled by ocean breezes, offered prime growing conditions.

Even so, it has been in just the past several decades that wine-growing and producing has come into its own on the Central Coast. Visitors to the area are welcome to visit tasting rooms and tour the grounds of wineries ranging in style from large, modern facilities to unique, family-run operations.

Most of the area's wineries are located near major highways and offer spectacular vistas of valley and mountains. Local winemakers have received acclaim for a wide variety of wines, including, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Cabernet Savignon and Syrah.

Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz Winegrowers Association - (831) 479-WINE

San Benito County
Gilroy Visitors Bureau - (408) 842-6436

Monterey County
Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association - (831)375-9400

San Luis Obispo County
San Luis Obispo Vintners Association - (805) 541-5868

Paso Robles Vintners & Growers Association - (805) 239-8463

Santa Barbara County
Santa Barbara County Vintners Association - (805) 688-0881

Ventura County
Ventura VCB - (800) 333-2989

Central Coast Tourism Council
1601 Anacapa Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101-4851

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