Where We Like to Wine in Carmel Valley
And boy, do we like to wine… When most people plan wine tasting in California, they immediate go Napa, Sonoma, maybe even Paso Robles, but not often Carmel Valley. A little off the beaten path, but no less flavorful, Carmel Valley vineyards are well worth exploring. From juicy, bright Pinot Noirs to complex, full-bodied Syrahs, you can find it all here—and without the crowds.
Joyce Vineyards
Their slogan “Small lot wines from Monterey, CA with balance, finesse an focus” pretty much sums up the story, but we have more to add. Joyce is a family name that derives from their ancestral heritage in Northern Ireland. They farm their own small estate of six acres but mostly look to expert regional growers for the bulk of their grapes so they can focus on production and blending.
Father/son team Frank and Russell Joyce make handcrafted Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon in limited quantities from some of the finest vineyards in Monterey County. Learn about and shop for Joyce wines HERE.
Loving their photogenic Terroir Private Events Room, elevated indoor space, design elements, and outdoor patio, which is perfectly cozy for small gatherings.
Joyce Vineyard’s produces handcrafted, unfined, and unfiltered wines. Delivering well-balanced, consistent, and fine wines.
*BH Insider Tip: The must-try wine of the visit was 2016 Submarine Canyon Chardonnay, Monterey County. Tasting notes: Fresh orchard fruit, crisp and elevating, subtle mouthwatering texture.
The Wine House Tasting Room
The Wine House has their recipe down! There is something for every palate and this also includes nibbles—they offer tasty shared plates and bites to keep you going while you re-hydrate with wine. The wines vary, with selections from Sonoma County to France, and beer on tap (six offerings, mostly local) are an added bonus for the non-wine lovers in your group. Their goal of offering familiar and international flavors is well-curated and your tastebuds will thank you for trying unique selections that may be out of your comfort zone. The food and beverage menu changes often and with the seasons, so you can always expect something new and fun, but worry not—there will always be cheese on the menu (thank goodness!).
The Wine House opened in December of 2017 and this rustic-chic “wine-lovers’ establishment” used to be part of an historic Carmel Valley dairy farm. We love this spot for day dreaming, date days or nights (or mornings), group gatherings or a nightcap after dinner. Bonus: this is likely the only wine bar in town that is open until 10pm!
Lastly, let’s talk about the ambiance. It’s easy to camp out on the patio space, especially on a sunny day or warm night. The only thing that may pull you away is the Bocce Ball court or cornhole station—I always find that I’m a touch better at these games after a glass of wine. Special attention is paid to preserving the nature of the place, modernization of space, and ample seating throughout. There is also a fire pit with occasional live music which makes it an extra special spot to enjoy.
BH Insider Tip: I am a sucker for branding so I often choose my wines by the label. Luckily, I also enjoy surprises. It’s like going on a Tinder date with wine—some turn out fantastic, some you can’t wait to spit out.
I had a 2016 Lumen Chardonnay, Sierra Madre Vineyard. And it made me feel whole. Which matched the tasting notes: This single-vineyard Chardonnay offers explosive lychee, honeydew, and pineapple fruit up front, focused around a firm, mineral-driven backbone. If only all my dates were as delicious!
Explore EVEN more!
For a full list of wineries in Monterey County, including many more Carmel Valley gems, click here for a printable tasting map and winery directory.