SIPPING STORIES AT FOLKTALE WINERY & VINEYARDS
Exploring the Unique Wines and Winemaking of Monterey County, California
By Sharon K. Kurtz
SHARON K. KURTZ ON BIG BLEND RADIO: Join us as we Wine It Up with this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Eat, Drink & Be Merry show that explores the unique characteristics of wines from Oregon, California, Arizona, and Hungary, along with delicious wine pairings and personal wine journeys. As part of this panel discussion, Sharon talks about her experience at Folktale Winery & Vineyards in Monterey County, California. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
A Warm Welcome at Folktale When we arrived at Folktale Winery in the heart of Monterey County, winemaker David Baird greeted us with the kind of genuine hospitality that makes wine country feel like home. With harvest in full swing, we were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the vineyards and winemaking facilities and an unforgettable tasting experience.
Tasting Orange Wine, Fresh from the Barrel
Right there in the parking lot, as new French oak barrels were being unloaded, we got our first sip of something special: orange wine. Later, during our tour, we sampled it again—this time straight from the barrel. It doesn’t get much fresher than that.
David demonstrated the ancient winemaking technique of punching down the cap—the thick layer of skins, seeds, and stems that rises to the top during fermentation. This process infuses the fermenting Chardonnay juice with deep color, tannins, and complexity. Unlike typical white wine, orange wine allows grape skins to remain in contact with the juice, giving it that distinctive amber hue and rich texture.
Winemaking with a Sense of Place
At Folktale, the focus is on crafting wines that express the terroir of Monterey County. Their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are standout examples—elegant, balanced, and a reflection of the region’s long, cool growing season.
What Makes Monterey County AVA Special
Monterey County may not be as famous as Napa or Sonoma. Still, its cool coastal climate, diverse soils, and sustainable farming practices make it one of California’s most exciting AVAs. Stretching from the misty shores of Monterey Bay through the Salinas Valley, the region offers an ideal environment for slow-ripening grapes and nuanced wines.
Cool-climate favorites:
- Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive here.
- Nine sub-AVAs: Including Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco, each with distinct characteristics.
- Unique soils: A mix of gravel, limestone, and ancient sea beds lends structure and minerality to the wines.
A Laid-Back Wine Country Experience
What makes Folktale Winery & Vineyards so special is its atmosphere—sophisticated but relaxed, serious about wine but full of charm. Add scenic vineyard views, passionate winemakers, and thoughtfully crafted wines, and you have the recipe for a truly memorable Monterey wine country visit.
Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/
Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon” Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/
