Approximately 100 miles (161 km) south of San Francisco, the AVA was recognized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Treasury on January 13, 1983 after reviewing the petition submitted by Mr. David Armanasco, General Manager of Durney Vineyard, located in Carmel, to propose a viticultural area named “Carmel Valley.”[6] The appellation is nestled about 5 miles (8 km) inland from the Pacific coast within the towering Santa Lucia Range encompassing over 19,000 acres (30 sq mi) with 300 acres (120 ha) of cultivated grapes on elevations ranging from 203 to 2,762 ft (61.9–841.9 m) above sea level.

Its vineyards are generally situated at elevations above 1,000 feet (300 m) on the mountainous terrain, and are less influenced by the coastal fog and wind which affects the northern end of the Salinas Valley.

Cachagua Valley’s unique mountainous setting sits high above the fog line along the coast and exposes the grapes to a warmer overall climate.

This dramatic swing in temperature extends the ripening time and growing season, allowing the grapes a slow maturation process.

The Monterey-Salinas Transit Route 24 public bus, named the Grapevine Express, runs through the Carmel Valley stopping at most of the tasting rooms.