The dramatic backdrop of land meeting sea is what attracts droves of tourists to Monterey County each year. It is also what makes Monterey a world-class wine region. Abundant sunshine, cool ocean air, fertile soils and an established tradition of growers and vintners combining old methods with new innovations - all this goes into the terroir of Monterey wine grapes. This weekend, Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association will host its 13th annual Great Wine Escape Weekend. The event will take place from Friday through Sunday at various locations in Monterey, where attendees will get the opportunity to celebrate Monterey County's world-class wines and gastronomic delights.

What makes this wine event stand out from other food and wine festivals on the Peninsula is that exclusively features Monterey County wines. Forty wineries and 15 restaurant will participate in this leisurely event, where guests will be able to sample Monterey's regional best while gazing at panoramic oceans views. Fri-Sun, Nov. 13-15 www.montereywines.org/gwe or call 375-9400


Mark