Classic Merlot 2023
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The Montes Classic Merlot hails from some of the finest growing sites in Chile's Central Valley, predominantly the Colchagua Valley sub-region, at Montes' Apalta and El Arcángel de Marchigüe estates. The more extreme conditions in the Marchigüe vineyards give the wine a deeper colour, as well as great tension and body. Apalta, on the other hand, with its deeper soils and better availability of water, adds diversity to the aromas and unctuousness on the palate.
Harvest Note
In Colchagua and much of Chile’s Central Valley, 2023 was marked by intense, prolonged heat resulting in early, rapid ripening and reduced yields due to grape dehydration. Consistent irrigation helped mitigate stress in vineyards, but grape health remained excellent despite the challenges. The harvest up to four weeks ahead in some areas and logistically demanding, with many varieties ripening simultaneously. Stylistically, the vintage produced reds with ripe fruit, moderate extraction, and cleaner, fresher profiles when picked early, showing the value of precise vineyard and cellar decisions under extreme conditions.
Tasting Note
Lively ruby-red in color, with aromas of fresh red cherry and raspberry. Flavors of blackberry and red plum mix with notes of hazelnut. The palate is balanced and fresh, with medium body and a long finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Merlot, 15% Carmenère
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.5
ACIDITY: 3.5 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 45% of the wine was aged for 6 months in French oak
Unique Selling Points
- Represents the outstanding value Chile can offer for everyday drinking
- Grapes are handpicked and transported to the winery with the utmost care
- Vineyards located in Apalta and Marchigüe, Colchagua Valley
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.
