Chalone is a sub-appellation of the larger Monterey appellation and encompasses parts of both Monterey and San Benito Counties. The region is located on the eastern hills overlooking the Salinas Valley across the valley from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco. The climate is cool and arid, typically receiving less than 12 inches of rain per year. There are only a handful of wineries in the Chalone AVA, with only one, Chalone Vineyards, being open for tasting. Chalone grapes are used by several non-resident wineries such as Copain, Testarossa and Loring to produce exceptional wines.