Stéphane Montez du Monteillet

Since the 16th century, the Monteillet estate has belonged to the de Villard family, whose most famous member is Louis Hector, Duke of Villard, Marshal of France under Louis XIV (1653–1734). Patiently and gradually, Stéphane Montez’s ancestors—winegrowers, boatmen, and coopers, driven by their love for the Rhône and the work of the vineyard—bought back the estate’s lands, parcel by parcel. Today, Stéphane Montez has taken over from his father, Antoine, who passed on all his expertise to him. Stéphane Montez spent two years working in various vineyards around the world—in England, Australia, California, and South Africa. This international experience made Stéphane realize the unique character of the terroir—that very quality that brings balance to the wines. Thus, the Montez family plants, vinifies, ages, and markets their wines across 24 hectares and three appellations.