Monsoon Valley Vineyard #85
Pioneering Spirits: Chalerm Yoovidhya and the Rise of Thai Wine Culture
In 2001, Chalerm Yoovidhya founded Monsoon Valley, catalyzing the development of a distinct Thai wine culture. Drawing from his international studies, Chalerm recognized Thailand’s potential to produce world-class wines along the unconventional 13th parallel north. His initial vineyard was strategically located near Khao Yai in Tab Kwang, a region noted for its fertile soil and excellent growing conditions, especially suited for Shiraz.
Today, Monsoon Valley Vineyard is nestled in a tranquil valley near Hua Hin, a site once used as an elephant corral. This vineyard has become a top wine tourism destination, showcasing a variety of grapes that thrive in its unique microclimate, with sea breezes and mineral-rich soils. Visitors enjoy wine tastings, educational tours emphasizing sustainable practices, and the stunning natural setting. Under Chalerm’s guidance, Monsoon Valley continues to lead in Thai winemaking innovation, actively exploring new regions and styles to enhance Thailand’s international wine reputation.
Exploring Monsoon Valley's Diverse Ecosystem and Award-Winning Wines
The vineyards, spanning Hua Hin, Tab Kwang, and Chiang Mai, combine wildlife conservation with viticulture. The Hua Hin vineyard utilizes rainwater irrigation, fostering rich biodiversity alongside sustainable practices like rice cultivation and vegetable gardening. This ecological commitment supports Monsoon Valley’s winemaking excellence, recognized with multiple awards, including this year’s accolades from AWC Vienna. The authentic wines, crafted to complement Thai and international cuisines, affirm its leadership in global viticulture.
Exclusive Experiences at Monsoon Valley: Thailand’s Premier Wine Destination
Set in the stunning backdrop of Thailand’s Hua Hin region, Monsoon Valley Vineyards presents a varied and immersive wine tourism experience. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the vineyard through expert-led tours that delve into tropical viticulture, showcasing the unique grape varieties and the innovative cultivation techniques that influence the wine’s distinct flavors.
Key attractions include the Baan Khok Chang Elephant Sanctuary, demonstrating the vineyard’s commitment to environmental stewardship and local wildlife preservation.
For active visitors, there are mountain biking trails suitable for various skill levels, and a Bottle Painting Experience that allows guests to paint and personalize their own wine labels.
The vineyard’s culinary centerpiece, The Sala Wine Bar & Bistro, offers a menu specifically designed to enhance the wines, creating a perfect pairing in a relaxed and scenic setting.
Monsoon Valley also offers Exclusive Vineyard Experiences, which are personalized to fit individual tastes and interests, including private tastings and customized tours ideal for those wanting a deeper understanding of wine or to celebrate special occasions.
Through these diverse activities and educational opportunities, Monsoon Valley Vineyards blends rich Thai hospitality with profound viticultural expertise, ensuring a memorable and enriching visit for every guest.
Reviews
Wonderful vineyard visit
It’s about an hour drive from Hua Hin, located in a wonderful valley surrounding by mountains. The winery has a tasting room, a lovely restaurant and offers a tour with a little jeep. We paid 200 bhat/person as entry fee, you can redeem for food. The tour is 150 bhat/ person or 450/ pax with tasting There are bikes for rent or you can simply wonder around. It is so beautiful and picture perfect. Highly recommend.
Visited November 2023 Travelled as a couple.
Brilliant day out with my family – what a gem this vineyard is, we booked a private tour and were picked up from our hotel. Vineyard bar and restaurant in a fab elevated position, lovely environment and great food. Tour of the vineyard was really interesting followed by a walk with their two most gorgeous elephants. Afterwards back for wine tasting and some platters which were lovely. Highly recommend a visit – I had no idea there were any vineyards in Thailand and this one certainly didn’t disappoint!
Spectacular! Went out to this winery for lunch – we drove out – an easy 45 min drive – it was well worth the trip. The food was lovely, the wine equally so – this coming from someone who knows quality award-winning wines coming from NZ! The kicker was being able to get up close and personal with 2 elephants – we were able to feed them and stroke them, which was just awesome, the staff were all so friendly and took photos for us. I really think this is a must do if you go to Hua Hin. Gorgeous setting and views of the lush natural park setting. Highly recommended! A+