Alpha Malbec 2022
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
Montes Alpha Malbec is composed of fruit equally sourced from the Finca de Apalta and Marchigüe estates in the Colchagua Valley. Both properties are defined by granitic soils at different stages of decomposition mixed with varying amounts of clay and organic material. The Malbec vines are planted on moderately sloped sites in Apalta and the shallow stonier sites in Marchigüe – avoiding the pockets of clay that retain water.
Harvest Note
A dry and cold winter was followed by a spring with low rainfall with some frost. Early summer was hot and dry but was followed by a mid and late summer with cool nighttime temperatures preserving acidity and allowing more complexity to develop in the fruit. The fruit was hand harvested and underwent 5 days of pre-fermentation cold soak to extract aromas and flavors. Alcoholic fermentation was completed in 10 days by selected yeasts after which the wine was racked into stainless steel and concrete tanks to undergo malolactic conversion.
Tasting Note
The wine shows a deep color with purple hues. On the nose, it expresses the elegant character of Malbec, with pronounced aromas of ripe raspberry, blueberry, prune, and black cherries. These fruit notes are complemented by floral tones and subtle hints of leather, smoke, toasted oak, vanilla, and nuts. The palate is broad with silky tannins and well-balanced acidity with a long, refined finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 95% Malbec; 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.5
ACIDITY: 3.7 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 50% of the wine is aged for 12 months in first, second, and third-use French oak barrels; the rest is aged in concrete tanks
Unique Selling Points
- Unique blend of granite soil types from Apalta and Marchigϋe.
- Distinct varietal character and generous body make this an exceptional value
The story of Montes is a testament to what unique vision, grit, determination, and perseverance can achieve.
Aurelio Montes Sr, Chief Winemaker
About the Grape
Malbec
Well-made Malbec is a dark, perfumed wine with rich, blackberry and damson plum fruit, aromas of violets and tobacco, and ripe, juicy tannins. In France, may be mineral, structured and austere.
