Montes – Chilean winery with an international reputation
Montes is one of Chile's most famous wineries and is known for its distinctive wines that combine Chilean terroir and modern winemaking techniques. The winery was founded in 1987 by four Chilean winemakers: Aurelio Montes, Douglas Murray, Alfredo Vidaurre, and Pedro Grand. Their goal was to elevate Chilean wines to a higher quality level and put them on the international map.
From the beginning, Montes focused on quality and discovering Chile's best terroirs. The winery now produces wines from various Chilean wine regions, including Colchagua Valley, Aconcagua Valley, and Maipo Valley.
Montes and Colchagua Valley
Colchagua Valley, one of Chile's most famous wine regions, plays an important role in Montes' portfolio. The warm, dry climate and the cooling influences from the Andes and the Pacific Ocean provide excellent conditions for, among others, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Syrah, and Malbec.
Montes has several vineyards here with diverse soils and microclimates. This allows the winery to create different wine styles, from elegant and fruity wines to powerful and complex red wines.
Carmenère as a Chilean specialty
One of the grape varieties with which Montes has made an international name is Carmenère. For a long time, this grape was mistaken for Merlot, until it was discovered in Chile in the 1990s that many old 'Merlot' plantings were actually Carmenère.
Montes has played an important role in developing Carmenère into one of Chile's signature grape varieties. At Montes, the grape produces distinctive red wines with dark fruit, spices, soft tannins, and often a subtle herbal note.
Aurelio Montes
One of the most famous names behind the winery is Aurelio Montes. He was not only one of the founders but also became one of Chile's most influential winemakers.
From the outset, his vision was focused on making wines that express the Chilean terroir. Montes combines traditional knowledge with modern techniques and pays great attention to vineyard management.
Viticulture and sustainability
Montes pays great attention to sustainable viticulture. The winery works on efficient water use, biodiversity, and limiting environmental impact, among other things.
A striking example is the use of gravity in winemaking. In various vineyards and wineries, the natural difference in elevation is used to move wine and grapes without constantly using pumps. This is not only more energy-efficient but also helps to treat the grapes and wine gently.
From Chile to the world
Montes grew from an ambitious Chilean winery to a producer with international renown. The wines are now exported to many countries and have received numerous awards worldwide.
The winery has also played an important role in the development of Chile as a producer of high-quality wines.
Fun fact
Montes uses music in the wine cellar. Gregorian chants are regularly played in the winery. According to the winery, the music contributes to a calm environment during the aging of the wines. Whether the wine actually improves because of it? Opinions on that naturally differ… but it's a good story nonetheless! 🎶
Discover Montes wines
At Vechtstreek Wijnen, you will find various Montes wines from Chile. Discover the different styles and grape varieties and taste for yourself why Montes is one of the most famous names in the Chilean wine world.