When it comes to wineries, people often think about those in France, Italy, Germany, Austria, Georgia, America and Australia. No one would think about the one in a small country in Southeast Asia like Thailand. GranMonte is a seasoned winery in Thailand that continues to grow and spearheads the wine industry.
GranMonte began its journey as a modest vineyard of 30 acres in 1999 at Asoke Valley, Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, founded by passionate wine lover Visooth Lohitnavy and his wife, Sakuna. Over the next decade, their dream flourished, transforming the small vineyard into a thriving winery with an additional 80 acres of planting area enveloped by Khao Yai's mountains. Today, GranMonte stands as a remarkable testament to family dedication, proudly remaining 100% family-owned.
The Lohitnavy family has two daughters who are actively contributing to the growth and success of their winery. The eldest, Visootha, known as Nikki, has had a green thumb since she was a child, and she holds the prestigious titles of oenologist and winemaker. As Thailand's first and only fully qualified winemaker, Nikki has been a driving force behind GranMonte's success since 2008, serving as General Manager and Oenologist. She brings her expertise to the winery with a Bachelor's in Oenology and an Honours degree in Viticulture from the renowned University of Adelaide.
The youngest daughter, Suvisooth, often called Mimi, also graduated from Australia. She has embraced a vital role in public relations and marketing, passionately working to elevate the GranMonte brand and shed light on the burgeoning Thai wine industry on the international stage. Through her efforts, she aims to enhance recognition and appreciation for both the GranMonte label and the unique qualities of Thai wines worldwide.
The participation of these young women in the winery led to remarkable changes. Their contributions not only facilitated the expansion of the vineyard but also ushered in innovative growing techniques that rejuvenated the entire farming process. Additionally, this collaborative effort fostered the development of new partnerships, strengthening the winery's network and enhancing its overall success.
When their parents started, the vineyard had only three varieties of grapes: two red varieties, Syrah (Shiraz) and Tempranillo, along with one white grape, Chenin Blanc. Now, the winery features five red varieties and nine white varieties, all of which are Mediterranean grapes that thrive in Khao Yai, where the climate and temperature resemble those of the Mediterranean region.
Nikki takes great care to ensure that the winery produces wine in the most mindful way possible. She emphasises energy conservation and implements conscious practices throughout the vineyard. By utilising natural methods, Nikki effectively manages diseases, insects, and other pests, supporting the growth of high-quality grapes.
"Our harvest takes place from February to April when we gather our grapes at night", Nikki explained with enthusiasm. "By choosing to work during these cooler hours, we reduce the energy required for our cooling system, resulting in lower energy consumption. Moreover, the refreshing nighttime temperatures not only keep our grapes in prime condition but also create a more pleasant working environment for our staff, enhancing their happiness and productivity as they carefully handpick each cluster."
The cellar features two rooms: one for white wines and one for red wines. Remarkably, the entire cellar operates with just one air conditioner. Nikki noted, "Red wines require less cold temperature. When we close the door, the temperature in the red wine room stays around 18 degrees Celsius, which is sufficient for just one air conditioner."
It‘s noticeable that there are rose bushes planted alongside rolls of grapevines, not for aesthetics but for monitoring pests and diseases. "Roses are sensitive to pests and diseases," Mimi explained. "If pests and diseases affect the roses first, we can address the problem before it spreads to our grapes. By observing the roses, we can take preventive measures in advance."
GranMonte, with its larger winery, more diverse selection of grapes and talented winemaker, has offered an extensive quality range of products, obtained many awards and built partnerships. GranMonte's notable partners include InterContinental Phuket Resort and Jim Thompson.
"As a result of our partnerships with InterContinental Phuket Resort, Jim Thompson, and other brands, we are able to reach a wider audience," Mimi emphasises. "Our outreach has allowed us to forge relationships with numerous hotels and restaurants. We are genuinely thrilled to contribute to each other's growth and success."
GranMonte wines have gained a remarkable reputation not just in their home country of Thailand. Still, they are also enthusiastically embraced in several countries in Asia, including Singapore, as well as in the Scandinavian region and throughout South America.
"Our wines receive a good reception in neighbouring countries, as well as in Scandinavia and South America," explained Mimi with a smile. "We're also eager to expand our reach and capture the interest of wine enthusiasts in Japan and North America."
GranMonte Winery in Asoke Valley is not merely a winery—it's Khao Yai's travel destination that invites visitors to explore the art and science of winemaking through immersive wine tours designed for both enthusiasts and casual travellers.
The experience begins with a leisurely bus ride through the vineyard, where guests soak in the breathtaking views of lush grapevine fields and observe the diverse varieties of grapes that thrive in this fertile landscape. A knowledgeable guide shares insights about each grape type, its growing conditions, and the unique characteristics that contribute to the winery's exceptional vintages.
The grapes start flowering in November, creating a delicate tapestry of blossoms that signal the start of the growing season. As the weeks pass, these flowers give way to tiny green fruit, which starts to set and develop. By January and February, the grapes enter the fascinating veraison stage, where they transform from green to shades of purple or golden, indicating their ripening process. The harvest takes place from February to April, as mentioned earlier when the grapes are at their peak flavour and ready for picking.
After enjoying a scenic vineyard tour, guests are welcomed into the bustling heart of the winemaking process—the winery itself. As they step inside, they are greeted by an impressive array of winemaking equipment, each piece playing a pivotal role in transforming freshly harvested grapes into fine wine.
Among the tour's highlights is the grape destemmer, a vital piece of machinery that efficiently separates the grapes from their stems, ensuring only the finest, ripest fruit makes its way into the winemaking process, setting the stage for exceptional wine production.
Following this, guests are then introduced to the sleek stainless steel fermentation tanks. The tanks are with cooling jackets that meticulously manage the temperature during fermentation. This temperature control is vital, as it enhances the development of the wine's intricate and nuanced flavours, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through.
As the tour progresses, visitors are captivated by a collection of kvevri, traditional clay amphorae that Nikki brought back from Georgia. These beautifully shaped vessels stand in striking contrast to the sleek, contemporary lines of modern innovations surrounding them. With their earthy tones and unique, handcrafted textures, the kvevri echo a rich heritage that dates back centuries. Historically, these amphorae have played an essential role in the winemaking process, serving both as containers for fermentation and ageing. The inclusion of these remarkable kvevri at GranMonte exemplifies the seamless blend of ancient traditions and contemporary practices, highlighting the enduring legacy of this time-honoured craft.
The automated bottle riddling machine expertly rotates and tilts each bottle full of fermented grape juice to facilitate the perfect settling of sediment in sparkling wines. Meanwhile, the semi-automatic wine bottling machine efficiently fills bottles with just the right amount of liquid, optimising the bottling process. Together, these remarkable innovations represent the cutting-edge technology in the wine industry, enhancing both efficiency and precision in every single bottle produced.
The winery laboratory is a hub where Nikki and her dedicated team meticulously assess the quality of their wines. Using precise instruments, they measure various factors such as brix levels, which indicate grape sugar content, and the alcohol concentration, ensuring each bottle meets the highest standards. In this creative environment, Nikki also embarks on exciting experiments to develop innovative wine blends, continually pushing the boundaries of flavour and artistry in winemaking.
After being introduced to the machines, kvevri and laboratory, visitors will be led to the cellar where the wines are kept to ferment and mature. Here, they can observe the transformation of both white and red wines, all expertly fermented in new oak barrels, which impart a rich complexity to the flavours. In addition, they will encounter GranMonte's celebrated Crémant, a sparkling wine in its second fermentation. This process occurs within bottles, allowing for the formation of delicate, natural bubbles, promising a refreshing and refined tasting experience.
After enjoying their previous activities, guests board the bus once more, excitedly anticipating the next stop on their journey. They arrive at the picturesque GranMonte tasting room, nestled next to the Montino Shop. Here, they are invited to indulge in a delightful array of GranMonte wines, each crafted to perfection. As they savour the rich flavours of the wines, they can also enjoy a delectable spread that includes creamy local cheeses, warm Brazilian cheese bread, and tangy pickled olives, all of which beautifully complement the wines.
After the delightful tasting experience, which marks the end of the tour, visitors are invited to stroll over to the charming Montino Shop. Here, they can explore an array of wines and a selection of gourmet products. The shop boasts a stunning collection of GranMonte's offerings, including refreshing grape juice, rich fruit jams bursting with flavour, and unique salad dressings that elevate any dish. Patrons can also find a variety of condiments and grappa crafted from the grape skins left over from the winemaking process. Additionally, the shop features Nikki's fresh shiso leaves and creamy ice cream made from Nikki's artisanal ingredients, such as aromatic vanilla, making for a delightful treat to take home or savour at the Montino Café, located in the north wing of the shop.
For those seeking an enchanting overnight escape, GranMonte offers the beautiful GranMonte Wine Cottage, a serene haven embraced by nature's splendour. This idyllic accommodation features seven meticulously designed rooms, categorised into four unique types, each offering spectacular vistas of the sprawling vineyard and the lush, vibrant tropical jungle that envelops the valley.
Guests can indulge in the tranquillity of their surroundings, relishing the comfy, homelike atmosphere of the cottage. The serene setting invites long, leisurely mornings and peaceful evenings under the stars, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
To further enhance this experience, the cottage provides luxurious toiletries from the renowned Thai wellness brand Panpuri, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a world of comfort and tranquillity during their stay.
Overnight guests are treated to a delightful breakfast experience, offering a variety of options to suit their tastes. Served in the charming ambience of VinCotto Restaurant, this morning feast features the winery's exquisite signature Crémant alongside refreshing grape juice. Guests can indulge in freshly baked, house-made soft rolls, fluffy waffles, and a vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits, all complemented by a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing selection of tea. Guests have the option to have some red wine to enhance their morning experience.
VinCotto Restaurant invites guests to indulge in a sumptuous array of dishes, featuring a carefully curated menu that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Each meal is a masterpiece, expertly crafted from the beloved recipes of Sakuna Lohitnavy, promising a warm, comforting and homely culinary journey that tantalises the taste buds.
Visitors can choose to savour their meals in a charming and inviting indoor atmosphere adorned with elegant décor or bask in the refreshing outdoor setting, where the gentle breeze and vibrant surroundings enhance the dining experience.
Kale Salad is a fresh and vibrant new addition to the menu. This salad showcases a colourful medley of crisp, locally sourced kale and juicy, ripe grapes. Each bite is elevated by a lively, nutty, sharp cheese and zesty dressing that perfectly balances tangy and refreshing flavours, awakening the palate.
Smoked Duck Breast Salad stands out as a beloved favourite, featuring slices of perfectly crispy and juicy smoked duck breast nestled atop a bed of crisp local greens. The addition of sweet, plump grapes and chewy raisins, combined with a luscious grape dressing, elevates this dish to a delightful and balanced experience.
A fusion Chicken Wrapped in Vine Leaves is a signature dish that beautifully melds Mediterranean stuffed grape leaves with the Thai delight known as Gai Hor Baitoey, or chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. This unique dish is complemented by a sweet grape sauce that adds a touch of sweetness.
Seafood aficionados will love Pan-Seared Hokkaido Scallops, artfully plated with a velvety spinach sauce. The scallops, perfectly cooked to achieve a golden crust, are elegantly adorned with baked cauliflower and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, creating a visually stunning and flavourful dish.
For pasta lovers, Smoked Duck Breast Fusilli is a rich and flavourful option that incorporates the boldness of sun-dried tomatoes and the heat of chillies. For those seeking an extra punch, the addition of GranMonte's chilli oil offers a delightful kick that warms the palate.
Beef Bourguignon showcases succulent short ribs, perfectly braised until they are melt-in-your-mouth tender. These morsels of beef are lovingly immersed in a luxurious, rich sauce made with stock and wine, infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables, that beautifully embodies the heartwarming essence of classic French comfort food. Creamy, buttery mashed potato served with the dish is a perfect pair and enhances the experience.
To wrap up the dining experience on a delightful note, guests are invited to savour the silky Grape Panna Cotta, a delicate and creamy Italian dessert, elegantly drizzled with a richly preserved grape sauce that enhances its sweetness with layers of depth and flavour.
Grape Cheese Pie is a delightful dessert that boasts a buttery, flaky crust, perfectly baked to a golden brown. Inside, it features a velvety, rich, creamy cheese that is topped with plump, fresh grapes bursting with sweetness. The harmony of flavours and textures creates a truly luxurious, refreshing and satisfying treat.
GranMonte is a renowned wine brand and picturesque winery situated in the enchanting region of Khao Yai, Thailand. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards, it offers visitors a unique travel destination where they can savour exquisite wines, explore scenic landscapes, and immerse themselves in the art of winemaking. With its beautiful views and inviting atmosphere, GranMonte provides a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a memorable getaway.
GranMonte Vineyard & Winery
Hours: Daily, 08:00 - 20:00 Hours
Tel: +669 2806 7755
Website: https://www.granmonte.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/granmonte
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/granmontewines/
E-mail: marketing@granmonte.com
Location: 52 Payayen Pansuk-Kudkla Street, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30320
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