Doug Meador, a former Navy jet pilot and University of Washington econometrics graduate, planned a career in Washington State where his family owned apple orchards. On his way to Washington from the Navy, some college friends persuaded him to supervise the planting of 2,500 acres of grapes in Monterey County. Doug became fascinated with the challenges of cold climate viticulture – and decided to remain in Monterey. He subsequently purchased the finest area of the large planting naming it Ventana Vineyards. Doug chose the name (the Spanish word for window) because the vineyard abuts to the Ventana Wilderness and because to him, it symbolizes the “window to the future” in viticulture.
Today, Ventana Vineyards is the “Most Award Winning Single Vineyard in America”. For over thirty years, Ventana has essentially been a research vineyard – the result of Doug Meador’s single-minded dedication to earn Monterey County a respected place on the California wine map. This accomplishment is due in part to his research and dedication to solving the challenges and reaping the rewards of cold climate viticulture. Some of Meador’s innovations include close vine spacing and split canopy trellising – methods that protect the vines from wind and open the grapes to sunlight and air circulation. This increases yields while improving overall fruit quality. Doug also tackled clonal vine research finding that many vines were mislabeled and were not the best varietals or clones for Monterey’s cool growing region.
The benefits of many years of study are found in the fine wines of Ventana Vineyards. Meador describes our wine style as “European sensibility with an abundance of California fruit”. Each wine is true to its labeled varietal, estate bottled and from a single vineyard; qualities found in only the finest wines. We strive to take each type of grape and make a wine that best represents its special characteristics, at a value that consumers enjoy. Our Chardonnays showcase the fruit forward style of Ventana. The Rieslings have an exceptional bouquet. Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines made from Ventana grapes are full of black and red berry fresh fruit flavors. Our house style is to use oak as an accompaniment to the fruit; it will never overpower the natural flavors of the wine.
Enjoy our family’s commitment to bringing the finest from our vineyard to your table.
2999 Monterey-Salinas Highway, Monterey, CA 93940 - 831-372-7415
