Alpha Merlot 2022
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The Merlot is sourced primarily from the El Arcángel de Marchigüe estate in the Colchagua Valley. Granitic soils, at various stages of decomposition, are mixed with clay and rounded stones. The Cabernet Franc is sourced from the Apalta vineyard, where it reaches ideal phenolic ripeness contributing herbal notes and elegance to the wine. The vines are Guyot trained and harvested at approximately 7000 kg/ha (2.8 tons/acre).
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 displays a deep crimson-red hue. On the nose, it reveals fresh fruit aromas, including plum, sour cherry, and blackberry. Subtle toasted notes from barrel aging are interwoven with hints of vanilla, fresh caramel, pastry, and candied fruit. The palate is well-balanced, with vibrant yet smooth tannins, a medium body, and impressive length.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 90% Merlot; 10% Cabernet Franc
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.5
ACIDITY: 3.5 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
Merlot
Merlot makes plump, succulent wines to drink young or opulently massive wines for aging. Has silky, blackberry and currant fruit, with spice, earth, tobacco and chocolate notes, and soft tannins.
