{"title":"Montoya","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"montoya-pinot-noir-monterey","title":"Montoya Pinot Noir Monterey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMontoya Pinot Noir Monterey\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100% Pinot Noir from Monterey County, California, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Sourced primarily from the Suter Vineyard and select Monterey County appellations, this red earned Silver Medals at both the 2019 San Francisco International Wine Competition and the 2019 Los Angeles International Wine Competition for its 2016 vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Monterey County, California  |  100% Pinot Noir  |  Producer: Montoya Vineyards\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontoya Vineyards draws from family-owned vineyards and select sites across Monterey County, a region defined by dramatic day-to-night temperature swings that allow Pinot Noir to ripen slowly while retaining natural acidity. Grapes for this bottling are hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness, then cold soaked for 48 hours before undergoing a combination of warm and cool fermentations — an approach designed to extract both bright fruit character and deeper structural complexity. The wine then spends 10 months aging in lightly seasoned French oak barrels, which contribute subtle spice and texture without overwhelming the varietal expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red cherries and wild raspberries lead the nose, followed by a layer of smoky sandalwood and a touch of earthy forest floor. There is a subtle iodine-laced minerality that adds intrigue beneath the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate opens with ripe raspberry and black cherry, filling the mouth with a velvety, medium-bodied texture. Mid-palate, soft spices and red currant emerge alongside a dry silkiness that keeps the wine balanced and food-friendly. The fruit stays expressive throughout without tipping into sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is smooth and lingering, with echoes of raspberry and a faint thread of smoky oak. It closes clean, with enough tannic grip to leave a lasting impression without heaviness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Montoya Pinot Noir\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Monterey Pinot Noir shows its best slightly below room temperature, around 60–65°F, served in a wide-bowled glass that lets its aromatics open up. Neat sipping rewards patience, but the wine also works well in food-forward settings. A \u003cstrong\u003eClassic Pinot Noir Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e with stone fruits and a splash of brandy benefits from the wine's bright berry core. A \u003cstrong\u003ePinot Noir Reduction Sauce\u003c\/strong\u003e for seared duck or lamb takes advantage of its smoky depth. For a simple warm-weather option, a lightly chilled \u003cstrong\u003ePinot Noir Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e with sparkling water and a twist of orange peel highlights the wine's natural freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners where you want a versatile, food-friendly red\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to cool-climate California Pinot Noir\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a casual dinner party with charcuterie or roasted poultry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a collection of value-driven Monterey County wines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Montoya Pinot Noir taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Pinot Noir leads with ripe raspberry and black cherry, supported by soft spice, smoky sandalwood, and a velvety mouthfeel. It finishes smooth with a gentle tannic structure and lingering berry notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Montoya Pinot Noir compare to La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are 100% Pinot Noir from Monterey County, but Montoya tends toward a spicier, earthier profile with smoky oak influence from its 10-month French oak aging, while La Crema Monterey typically presents a rounder, fruit-forward style. Montoya generally positions at a lower price tier, making it a strong entry point for the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Montoya Pinot Noir good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its balance of fruit, soft tannins, and dry silkiness makes it an approachable choice for drinking on its own, particularly when served slightly cool at around 60–65°F.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Montoya Pinot Noir made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Pinot Noir is produced by Montoya Vineyards in Monterey County, California, drawing fruit primarily from the Suter Vineyard and other select Monterey County appellations known for their cool-climate growing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Montoya Pinot Noir?\u003c\/strong\u003e Roasted duck or game hen pairs well with the wine's smoky depth. Grilled salmon echoes its earthy berry character. Mushroom risotto complements the forest-floor aromatics. A charcuterie board with aged Gruyère and prosciutto matches its soft tannins. Herb-roasted chicken is a classic, reliable pairing for the wine's medium body and acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Montoya Pinot Noir come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Pinot Noir Monterey is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Montoya Pinot Noir worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Pinot Noir positions as an entry-level to mid-range Monterey County red, delivering 10 months of French oak aging and hand-harvested fruit at a price point well below many regional competitors — strong value for a cool-climate California Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Montoya Pinot Noir?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMonterey County's reputation for cool-climate Pinot Noir continues to grow, and Montoya delivers a textbook example of why the region matters. The combination of nighttime hand-harvesting, 48-hour cold soak, and 10 months in lightly seasoned French oak creates a wine with more complexity than its price suggests. Silver Medals at both the San Francisco and Los Angeles International Wine Competitions validate the quality in the glass. For anyone exploring Monterey Pinot Noir without committing to premium pricing, this bottling makes a compelling case.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montoya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837496488105,"sku":"21222","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Montoya-Pinot-Noir-Monterey__60779.jpg?v=1730484505"},{"product_id":"montoya-cabernet-sauvignon","title":"Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMontoya Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Monterey County, California red wine bottled at 13.7% ABV in a standard 750ml format. The 2017 vintage earned 90 points from Wine Enthusiast, signaling a wine that punches well above its weight class within the competitive California Cabernet landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.7%  |  Origin: Monterey County, California  |  Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon  |  Winery: Montoya Vineyards\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontoya Vineyards draws fruit from Monterey County, a region defined by dramatic microclimates shaped by the Salinas Valley's cool marine air funneling inland from Monterey Bay. That temperature variation — warm days followed by brisk evenings — allows the grapes to develop concentrated flavors while retaining natural acidity. The wine is matured using a balance of French and American oak, a dual-cooperage approach that layers structure and aromatic complexity without overwhelming the fruit. Winemaker Chelsea, a UC Davis graduate with experience across multiple California wine regions, oversees the blending and élevage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black pepper and currant greet the nose first, followed by deeper layers of cigar box and loamy soil. A thread of red flower adds lift to an otherwise dark, brooding bouquet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is fruit-forward, with blackberry and plum arriving immediately. Mid-palate, flavors of fresh red fruit and candied boysenberry emerge alongside light pepper spice. Tannins are present from the start but remain well-integrated, carrying the fruit rather than competing with it. A subtle toasty oak character weaves through the palate, adding dimension without heaviness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is soft yet persistent, with vanilla and dark fruit lingering at moderate length. A faint olive and earthy note surfaces at the tail end, grounding the wine with savory complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Montoya Cabernet\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServed at cellar temperature — around 60–65°F — this Cabernet shows its best aromatic range. A few minutes of decanting opens up the darker fruit and softens the tannin grip. Three cocktail-style applications worth considering: a classic \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola over ice), where Montoya's ripe fruit and moderate tannins stand up to the sweetness; a \u003cstrong\u003eNew York Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the wine floats beautifully atop the whiskey sour base and adds berry depth; and a winter \u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the black pepper and plum notes meld naturally with warm spices like cinnamon and clove.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners with grilled red meat or hearty pasta\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing a curious friend to Monterey County wines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a case of reliable, food-friendly California Cabernets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a dinner party or barbecue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Montoya Cabernet taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with ripe blackberry, plum, and currant flavors supported by toasty oak, light pepper spice, and a vanilla-driven finish. The tannins are firm but approachable, making it fruit-forward without being jammy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Montoya Cabernet compare to Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are widely available California Cabernets at a similar value tier, but Montoya sources fruit from Monterey County's cooler climate, which tends to produce brighter acidity and more defined dark-fruit character. Montoya's 2017 vintage scored 90 points from Wine Enthusiast, giving it a notable critical edge in that vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Montoya Cabernet good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — it has enough fruit concentration and oak-derived complexity to stand on its own, especially when served slightly below room temperature and given a brief decant to open up the aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Montoya Cabernet made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Vineyards produces this Cabernet Sauvignon in Monterey County, California, a coastal region along the central coast where the Salinas Valley's unique microclimate contributes cool-climate intensity to the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Montoya Cabernet?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak complements the wine's dark fruit and tannin structure. Braised short ribs echo its plum and vanilla tones. Hard aged cheeses like Manchego match the wine's savory undertones. Roasted lamb with rosemary highlights the peppery aromatics. A classic margherita pizza works surprisingly well with its moderate weight and bright acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Montoya Cabernet come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Montoya Cabernet worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Montoya positions as a value-tier California Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 90-point Wine Enthusiast score for its 2017 vintage suggests it delivers quality that competes with wines at higher price points within the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Montoya Cabernet?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 90-point Wine Enthusiast rating on the 2017 vintage is the clearest indicator that this is not a generic supermarket Cabernet — it earned a score that many bottles at double or triple the price aspire to reach. Monterey County's cool-climate influence gives Montoya a natural acidity and aromatic freshness that distinguishes it from warmer-region California Cabs. The dual French and American oak maturation adds layers of vanilla and spice without masking the fruit. For anyone seeking a Cabernet Sauvignon that balances concentration, structure, and drinkability at an accessible price point, this bottle consistently delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montoya","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837614026921,"sku":"21223","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Montoya-Cabernet-Sauvignon__95040.jpg?v=1730488185"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/montoya.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}