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.