Celebrate California Wine Month all September Long

Break out the merlot—September has been proclaimed California Wine Month by Gov. Jerry Brown, according to the Wine Institute and California Association of Winegrape Growers officials.

This September will mark the seventh year the California government has recognized the wine industry and its connection to the Golden State with its many wineries, grape growers, vintners and more.

Brown made the proclamation in late August, just before a host of wine-centered events kicked off this month. Many are up in wine country, but if you're looking for a wine-filled weekend getaway close by, check out:

• On Sept. 16, Pinotfest Monterey will be a beach party and charity auction with live music, food and wine from several Monterey area wineries.

Much closer to home, there are some great wine options.

• The Capitola Art & Wine Festival is Sept. 10 and 11 in Capitola, featuring lots of local wine.
• Skov Winery, Scotts Valley's newest winery housed in the former Roudon Smith site, is open for tasting on Saturdays.
• in Scotts Valley hosts Wine Down Wednesdays each week, featuring a different local winemaker.

According to the Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers, California has more than 4,600 grape growers and accounts for about 90 percent of wine production in the United States.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.