Montara Wines

Nestled in the picturesque Grampians region of Western Victoria, Montara Wines is a family-owned winery that offers a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts. Established in 1970 and owned by the Stapleton family since 2006, this winery has evolved into a premier destination for cool climate wines.

Location and Setting

Situated 200 kilometers west of Melbourne, Montara Wines boasts a breathtaking panorama of plains, mountains, and vineyards. The winery is perched 350 meters above sea level on the eastern slopes of Mount Chalambar, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Vineyard

Montara's 20-hectare vineyard is home to a diverse range of grape varieties, including:

  • Shiraz

  • Pinot Noir

  • Riesling (50+ year-old vines)

  • Chardonnay

  • Sauvignon Blanc

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Merlot

The winery's commitment to meticulous vineyard practices results in low yields and intense fruit concentration, perfectly capturing the essence of the Grampians terroir.

Winemaking Philosophy

Under the guidance of chief winemaker Simon Fennell, Montara Wines has gained recognition for its exceptional cool climate wines. Fennell's approach combines respect for tradition with sustainable and adaptive practices, ensuring the winery's continued success and regional significance.

Wine Portfolio

Montara offers a range of award-winning wines that showcase the best of the Grampians region:

  • Shiraz: Full-bodied with complex flavors of black fruits and spice

  • Riesling: Crisp and fragrant with intense citrus notes

  • Pinot Noir: Elegant with red berry fruits and subtle spice

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Rich and structured, demonstrating the region's potential for this variety

  • Chardonnay: Balanced and complex with stone fruit and citrus characters

Visitor Experience

Cellar Door

The cellar door at Montara Wines offers a welcoming space for tastings and purchases. Visitors can sample the winery's range while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Events and Activities

Montara hosts regular events, including:

  • Wine Down Fridays: Monthly events featuring live music, woodfire pizzas, and happy hour specials

  • Seasonal celebrations and special tastings

Accommodation Options

For those looking to extend their visit, Montara offers various accommodation choices:

  • Luxurious Eco-Cabins: Well-equipped with stunning views of Mount Langi Ghiran

  • Glamping Tents: Cozy tents overlooking the vineyard

  • Camping Sites: Spacious sites for a more rustic experience

Sustainability and Future Focus

Montara Wines is committed to sustainable practices in both the vineyard and winery. This approach not only ensures the quality of their wines but also positions the winery for long-term success and environmental stewardship.

Why Visit Montara Wines

Wine lovers will appreciate Montara for its:

  • Exceptional cool climate wines that truly represent the Grampians region

  • Stunning location with panoramic views

  • Diverse range of varietals and styles

  • Commitment to sustainable winemaking practices

  • Warm hospitality and range of visitor experiences

Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Montara Wines offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of the Grampians wine region. With its combination of quality wines, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination for any wine lover exploring Victoria's wine country.

Winery details

76 Chalambar Road, Ararat, VIC 3377

76 Chalambar Road, Ararat, VIC 3377

+61 8 9772 3170

+61 8 9772 3170

Cellar door

Cellar door

Food available

Food available

Wine shop

Wine shop

Accommodation

Accommodation