Carmel Valley has been cultivating wine grapes since the late nineteenth century, though its modern reputation as a serious wine-producing region grew steadily through the latter half of the twentieth century. The valley's inland position shelters it from the coastal fog that defines the Monterey coastline, creating warmer days and a longer growing season that suits a range of varietals. It earned its own American Viticultural Area designation in 1982, a recognition of the distinct character the land lends to the wines produced here.

Late spring and early summer bring the vines to their most vivid green, when the slopes glow almost unnaturally bright under the valley's generous midday light.