Montoliva Vineyard & Winery (Back to Previous Page)

Appellation: Nevada County Location: 15629 Mount Olive Road Chicago Park, California 95712 Phone: (530)346-6577 Winemaker: Mark Hendry Tasting Room: N/A Days/Hours: Sat & Sun, 12:00 to 4:00 Parking: N/A Picnic Facilities: N/A Red Wines: Sangiovese, Aglianico, Super Tuscan Style Blend, Syrah White Wines: Pinot Grigio, Rose Production: 350 cases
Map

The Winery

Montoliva Vineyard & Winery is a celebration of the Italian immigrant history of the Chicago Park region. Along the lines of that theme, the boutique winery creates a fascinating Super Tuscan style wine which is a blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Aglianico. The winery grounds also include an extensive herb garden for visitors to enjoy during the summer months.

The Vineyards

Located at the 2200-foot elevation the vineyards enjoy the warm summers and cool evenings this region of the Sierras is known for. The Aglianico and Sangiovese vines are planted close together in soil that is primarily decomposed granite. This planting style is very common in Europe and causes the vines to compete for water and nutrients producing grapes with concentrated flavors and complexity.

The Wines

The wines are made in the complex, masculine style of Tuscany. Winemaker Mark Henry uses extended macerations, long fermentations and 18 to 24 month oak aging to create these bold, muscular wines.

The Winemaker

The winemaker at Montoliva Winery is owner and vineyard manager Mark Henry. He was a home winemaker who read several books on vineyard management prior to leaving his home in Seattle and settling in the Sierra Foothills. He chose to highlight the Italian varietal potential of the area which is reflected in the bold style of the Montoliva wines. 

	Correct This Information