A process for the preparation of compounds of formula I ##STR1## in which X is the radical OH or Cl, by the catalytic hydrogenation of 3,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-2-cyanopyridine, subsequent reaction of the resulting 3,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-2-aminomethylpyridine to give 3,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-2-hydroxymethylpyridine and, if desired, chlorination to give 3,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-2-chloromethylpyridine, and the novel intermediate 3,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-2-aminomethylpyridine.