John Montero

John Montero, a native of the San Francisco Bay Area, began his professional career as a microbiologist after receiving a degree in that field from the University of California at Davis. John worked in the biomedical industry for two years before returning to UC Davis to obtain an advanced degree.

While attaining a Masters Degree in Microbiology, John also studied viticulture and oenology. Realizing that abstract research was not fulfilling, John pursued a career in winemaking that now spans 30 years in two hemispheres. The focus has been on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and aromatic white wines in the cool climate regions of California - including Santa Cruz Mountains, Anderson Valley and Carneros, Napa Valley - and now Central Otago, New Zealand.

Why the move to New Zealand? It comes down to a desire to be part of an emerging region with enormous potential to make great Pinot Noir. This is a place where people truly feel connected to the land, and their commitment is both inspiring and infectious. John is interested in creating wines that make a real contribution to the landscape of winegrowing in Central Otago.