Description

Montsecano is a collaboration between Ostertag of the legendary Domaine Ostertag in Alsace and Julio Donoso of Chile. Julio Donoso, a famous fashion photographer, met André in the early 90s while shooting a story on him. Friends for many years, Julio convinced André to travel to Chile and see his family’s property. For André, it was love at first sight. It has been said that he even teared a little while viewing the property. André joined forces with Julio immediately after the trip.

Donoso and Ostertag started Montsecano in 2005.  They planted 4 hectares of Pinot Noir in las Dichas, Casablanca and built a small winery and cellar on the property.  The vineyard is biodynamically farmed and is plowed by horse.  The subterranean, geothermal winery is shaped like an egg, and they vinify exclusively with concrete egg and stainless steel.  Many believe that they produce two of the most highly regarded expressions of Pinot Noir in all of Chile.  Julio and Andre incorporate a philosophical aspect that goes deeper than the vine and the energy is manifested on the property and in the bottle.  Since 2017, Dominique Derain has contributed to the winemaking process and it is not uncommon for other winemakers from around the world to lend a hand during harvest.