Surprise Find: Montes Cabernet in Aruba

There’s something magical about stumbling onto a familiar taste in an unexpected place. On a recent evening in Aruba, I found myself sitting on a balcony overlooking the Caribbean sunset, a glass of Montes Cabernet Sauvignon in hand.

The best part? I didn’t discover it in some tucked-away wine bar or resort list. I found it at Superfood, the local grocery store that’s equal parts hidden gem and island essential.

The Wine: Montes Classic Series Cabernet Sauvignon

Montes is a Chilean producer known for bold reds that balance ripe fruit with just enough structure to stand up to grilled meats or be enjoyed on their own. The Classic Series Cabernet Sauvignon is approachable yet full-bodied, with notes of blackcurrant, plum, and just a hint of spice. It’s the kind of bottle you don’t have to overthink—perfect for vacation mode.

The Setting

There’s nothing quite like pairing a glass of wine with an Aruban sunset. Sitting on the balcony, sandals kicked off, music playing through a portable speaker, and palm trees silhouetted against the fading sky—it’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest pairings are the best.

Wine doesn’t always have to be an elaborate affair with decanters and multi-course meals. Sometimes it’s a bottle picked up from the local market, enjoyed with good company (or a quiet evening alone), as the sun drops into the sea.

Why It Matters

Finding Montes at Superfood reminded me that wine is about connection. It connects us to place—the Chilean valleys where it was grown and the Caribbean island where it was enjoyed. It connects us to memory—every sip will now remind me of Aruba’s salty breeze and warm evenings.

So next time you’re in Aruba, skip the resort’s overpriced wine list for a night and wander into Superfood. Grab a bottle of Montes, pour a glass, and let the island do the rest.

Because sometimes the best discoveries are the ones that weren’t on the itinerary.