Economic Value of Monterey County’s Wine and Winegrape Sector: $1.4 Billion Annually

The Monterey County, Calif., wine and winegrape sector and the businesses that support the industry deliver a total economic contribution of $1.4 billion in annual economic activity for Monterey County’s economy, according to a new report commissioned by the Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG).

The Monterey County wine industry, directly and indirectly, generates 10,491 jobs and $598.5 million in annual wages and benefits. Monterey County cultivated around 42,000 acres of grapes in 2021 and has 158 vineyard and winery operations, with 75 winery licenses (Type 02).

The local industry attracts approximately 630,000 tourists annually, who spend roughly $122.3 million. There are about 65 tasting rooms throughout the County, along the coast in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey, in the sunny and warm countryside of Carmel Valley, and the vineyards along the Monterey Wine Trail in the Salinas Valley.

“Our local wine industry is an important economic driver, generating significant revenue and employment opportunities and driving tourism. Locally, many of our small and large wineries are still family-owned, and some have been passed down through generations,” said Kim Stemler, executive director of the Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association.“ Our wine businesses have a strong connection to communities, as demonstrated by their generosity to local non-profits and a deep commitment to their employees and caring for the land.”