Four friends shared a vision to make Chilean wines of a higher level than the world had ever seen. In the late 1980s, their dream became a reality with Viña Montes, which is now sold in more than 100 countries and is noted as a pioneer of high-end Chilean wine, especially Syrah. The winery features gravitational technology, sustainable ethos and feng shui design by expert Sylvia Galleguillos. Its entrance is accessed via a wooden path over a small lagoon of water flowing towards the building, with a fountain resembling a lily at its core that connects the building with the outer world. Metal, wood, earth, fire and water elements are highlighted in the winery’s design philosophy, which aims to achieve a deeper union with its surroundings and, ultimately, wines.

Fuegos de Apalta is nestled in the vineyards and offers a gastronomic experience blending theatre and nature’s fiercest weapon – fire. Guests can hike or cycle through the vineyards before enjoying food smoked, roasted, and grilled around the central fire pit. Montes has vineyards in the Colchagua, Aconcagua, Curicó, Itata and Maule Valleys, producing wines of varying styles and price points. Its flagship cuvées include the intense red blend ‘Alpha M’ and the Montes ‘Folly,’ one of Chile’s first ultra-premium Syrahs made from the Apalta vineyards’ steepest and highest slopes.

Guided tours take guests down to the cellars, where 800 oak barrels are arranged in a spectacular semi-circular arrangement, serenaded by Gregorian chants for optimal ageing conditions. The estate’s Apalta vineyards in the Colchagua Valley is where the winery is based, but Montes also has vineyards across other valleys. The winery’s mystical air, with angels adorning the winery and wine labels, adds to the allure of the Viña Montes experience.