Our story · Estd. 1989
It began with a friendship.
Two friends, one shared love of wine.
Montpellier was founded in 1989 through the friendship, bond, and shared love of wine of Michael R. Mondavi and Fred T. Franzia. What began between friends became a California wine made for every table — cultured, approachable, and authentic.
California · ESTd. 1989
The founding
Michael R. Mondavi & Fred T. Franzia
Their friendship — and the bond formed over countless shared bottles — is the foundation of Montpellier. The wine they envisioned was never meant for a pedestal: it was meant for the table, poured generously among friends and family.
That spirit guides every vintage we make today.
New proprietors
Joseph J.D. & Dr. Ann H Franzia
Today Montpellier is guided by Joseph J.D. Franzia and Dr. Ann H Franzia — stewards of a family-owned portfolio brand rooted in California wine country. Their care for the vineyards, the table, and the friendships behind every bottle carries the founding spirit forward.
Together they honor what began in 1989 while shaping Montpellier for the next generation of family, friends, and fine California wine.
Joseph J.D. & Dr. Ann H Franzia · Proprietors
The creative foundation
A label born of art.
The Montpellier label is itself a work of art. The front label was designed by Margaret B. Mondavi, whose artwork gives the bottle its enduring face. The back label was penned by Robert G. Mondavi, whose words complete it.
Together, their contributions form the creative foundation of a brand where wine and art meet — a promise we honor on every bottle, unchanged.
Friendship, family, shared meals, and the arts — this is the Montpellier blend.