M
onsalvat Farm, a 400‑acre Vermont estate in Barnard, sits at 650 Francis Road and is owned by publishing heir John Noffo Kahn. The property, listed for $39 million, could eclipse the state’s record for a single home sale. Its landscape blends rolling pastures, stone walls, forested areas, and sweeping mountain vistas.
The centerpiece is “The Sanctuary,” a 10,000‑sq‑ft stone residence finished in 2009. A gravel drive leads past a stone‑post bridge over a pond, then through a granite arch covered in vines to a courtyard. Inside, the 12‑sided cathedral great room dominates, with a vaulted ceiling, a granite and split‑stone fireplace, white oak floors, and a massive iron chandelier. A second‑floor balcony library wraps around the eastern side, offering forest views. The house contains four full bathrooms, three powder rooms, and eight wood‑burning fireplaces. A vaulted hall, the “Cabin,” extends from an underground wine cellar conceived as an art gallery.
Adjacent to the main house is Gilbert’s Cottage, a 2,388‑sq‑ft stone‑walled, cedar‑shingled retreat. Large windows and dormers flood the interior with light, while timber‑framed ceilings and finely crafted woodwork create an intimate atmosphere. A rustic antler chandelier hangs over the central court. The cottage also features a bedroom suite, dining room, and kitchen, all designed for comfort and elegance.
Other structures on the property include a 1,070‑sq‑ft lodge, a farmhouse with four apartments, and a folly. The estate boasts a helipad, orchards, a stone gazebo over the main pond complete with a fireplace, and extensive trails. Spring‑fed ponds, equestrian facilities (barn and stable), and a network of paths enhance the pastoral setting.
Photographs by Jen Cypress of Dwelling Photography capture the estate’s grandeur, while drone shots by Evan Kay of Climb High Productions showcase its expansive layout. The property’s blend of rustic charm and luxurious amenities makes it a standout in Vermont real estate.
