La Montañuela - Los Enamorados Pet Nat 2019

26 varieties of wild apples from central Vermont and Champlain Valley + La Crescent and Frontenac Gris grape skins 

From the winemaker - 

La Montañuela was the name of my grandfather’s farm in the mountains outside of Caracas, Venezuela. I spent some time there as a child and those are some of my fondest memories. I believe it’s where my love for plants and nature began.

I made my first three wines in the fall of 2018. That following spring my grandfather passed away. In honor of his life and his love for the land, I decided to carry on the name of his beloved farm. In 2019 La Montañuela was reborn.

I am a first-generation winegrower in my family, making and farming wine in the state of Vermont. I have spent most of my life here and I am grateful to be able to do what I love in the place I call home. The soils, the climate, and the varieties we work with make Vermont wine truly unique and special. I make wine, cider, and co-ferments with apples, grapes, and other fruits grown in the area.

For the past three years, I have been working with Deirdre Heekin and Caleb Barber of La garagista. I’ve learned many things from them that I have been able to apply to my own project.

One of the most important and valuable things I have learned from them is farming. Winemaking begins in the vineyard. Taking care of the soil and of our planet is a top priority. Because of this I strongly believe that biodynamic, organic, and regenerative agriculture are some of the best methods for healthy soils and healthy fruit.

My hope is to keep growing, to keep learning, and continue experimenting with our special varieties. I hope to continue doing what I love and work with others who are interested in being a part of the growing Vermont wine community. I am doing this in honor of my family and all their hard work. I would not be where I am today without them and their support.