Nicolas Montañez was born and raised in Michoacán, Mexico. Growing up he was surrounded by the flavors of the region. As a child he recalls wandering through the open-air markets where fresh fruits, vegetables and mushrooms were at every stall. Montañez has brought creativity and the inspirations from his early childhood, combined with California’s seasonal bounty to craft delicious selections that celebrate wine and food. Montañez enrolled in continuing education classes at the acclaimed Wine Spectator Restaurant in St. Helena. Over a span of two years, he learned from some of the top Chefs in the country such as Jean Louis Palladin, Rick Bayless, and Charlie Trotter. Those experiences left him yearning to learn more, so he enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Today, he works closely with PEJU Winemaker Sara Fowler, tasting through each dish along with the wines and adjusting to ensure a perfect pairing. He is immensely grateful to work with a winemaker that is as equally passionate about food as wine. Chef Montañez is excited to be at PEJU to share his unique recipes with wine and food lovers.