GRANMONTE VINEYARD & WINERY
THE ESSENCE OF thai terroir
The collaboration between GranMonte and Chef Amerigo & Chef Yoann was meant to be. GranMonte, named after the Italian words for “Big Mountain” (a nod to its location in Khao Yai and inspired by a family relative in Italy), cultivates grapes from southern European varietals. Meanwhile, both chefs grew up in the South of France and Italy, which has inspired their cuisine. This shared heritage, combined with a passion for Thai produce, makes their partnership feel like serendipity.
“As GranMonte crafts wines through the lens of Thai terroir, Electric Sheep reimagines Mediterranean cuisine through the lens of Thai produce”
Mimi Lohitnavy
Crafting Wines in Thailand: A Bold New Latitude
Located in the Asoke Valley of Thailand's Khao Yai region, 160 km North East of Bangkok, GranMonte Vineyard is boldly challenging conventional wine-growing wisdom: Fine-wine can not be grown outside of the usual “Wine Belt” between 30 and 50 degrees north or south of the equator.
Situated 350 meters above sea level, this former cornfield has been transformed into Thailand's most innovative winery, producing award-winning wines in a climate where experts once said it couldn’t be done.
GranMonte produces wines that emphasises a sense of place, responsibility to the land, and an innovative approach to viticulture in a tropical climate.
What began as a hobby for Visooth and Sakuna Lohitnavy has blossomed into Thailand's premier winery. The family transformed a modest two-hectare plot into a thriving 80-acre vineyard that produces approximately 160,000 bottles annually. But what truly sets GranMonte apart is its status as the only winery in Thailand producing wines exclusively from Khao Yai-grown grapes.
At the helm is Nikki Lohitnavy since 2008, founders’ daughter and Mimi’s sister, Thailand's first degree-holding winemaker and one of the two family's daughters. Under her leadership, GranMonte has become more than just a winery—it's a living laboratory for tropical viticulture. The vineyard boasts its own weather station, research and development team, and custom-designed equipment.
From Hobby to Legacy: The GranMonte Family Story
Innovating in the Vineyard: Challenges and Solutions in Thai Viticulture
As climate change reshapes traditional wine-growing regions, GranMonte's experience in tropical viticulture is becoming increasingly relevant. Nikki Lohitnavy's work isn't just about producing excellent Thai wines—she’s laying the groundwork for winemaking in regions previously considered unsuitable.
This innovative approach has attracted international attention, with even Champagne producers visiting to learn how to adapt to changing climates. As traditional wine regions face extreme weather, GranMonte’s pioneering efforts in tropical viticulture offer a valuable blueprint for the future.
Thailand’s tropical climate presents unique challenges—such as a lack of diurnal temperature shifts that are essential for grape development. However, the vineyard’s unique microclimate, calcium-rich red clay soil, and innovative farming techniques have helped overcome these hurdles. GranMonte cultivates 11 varietals (including Syrah, Viognier, and Chenin Blanc) and is constantly experimenting with 40 more, ensuring they find the best varieties for Thailand’s tropical wet-and-dry climate.
To combat these challenges, GranMonte employs cutting-edge practices like canopy management to shield grapes from heat, efficient water usage, and proactive pest control. Portable lighting for nighttime harvesting enhances worker safety while managing temperature concerns. The vineyard also uses weather stations to forecast rainfall and monitor groundwater, ensuring optimal and minimal-waste irrigation.
Sustainability in Every Sip: GranMonte's Zero-Waste Philosophy
GranMonte’s commitment to sustainability is embodied in its zero-waste philosophy.
Grape seeds are pressed into oil, skins are distilled into grappa, and stems are composted back into the soil. This model ensures that every part of the grape is repurposed and that all organic waste is returned to the earth. Their commitment extends to using natural alternatives and biological agents as much as possible, minimising reliance on synthetic chemicals. Not only does this approach benefit the environment, but it also cuts costs—proving that caring for the land is both sustainable and smart business.
Limited Editions: GranMonte's Exclusive and Experimental Wines
GranMonte’s portfolio features exclusive wines produced in limited quantities, available only at the winery or select restaurants.
Their versatile Chenin Blanc, for example, is crafted in styles ranging from Crémant to dessert wine.
One standout is the Midnight Harvest Chenin Blanc, aged in oak barrels for up to two years. It boasts tropical fruit aromas, balanced acidity, and a touch of oak.
Another signature wine, their Heritage Syrah, has become a crowd favorite. Known for its fruity depth, refined tannins, and subtle hint of spice, this rich yet easy-drinking wine has won four Gold Medals in Vienna, cementing its reputation on the international stage.
The Durif, a personal favorite of the founders, offers intense dark fruit flavors and floral violet aromas. Full-bodied and bold, it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, offering a nice contrast to the lighter, fruit-forward Syrah.
A Thai Identity in Every Bottle: Geographical Indication and Local Pride
In an era where origin and sustainability matter more than ever, the winery has earned Thailand’s only Geographical Indication (GI) for wine, certifying that their products are exclusively grown and made in the Khao Yai region. This designation guarantees the origin and quality of their wines, reinforcing the winery’s commitment to local production and regional pride.
Through a combination of passion, innovation, and a deep respect for the land, this winery has crafted a unique narrative in Thailand’s wine industry. Their wines are a testament to the country’s potential as a producer of quality wines, showing that with the right knowledge and commitment, even the most challenging climates can produce something remarkable.
Perfect Pairings: GranMonte Wines and Electric Sheep Cuisine
GranMonte wines pair perfectly with Electric Sheep’s cuisine, enhancing the flavours of each dish and creating a harmonious blend of local and Mediterranean influences.