Folly 2020
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The vineyards for Montes Folly are located on the steepest slopes of the Finca de Apalta estate, where thin granitic soils and excellent drainage compel the vines to develop deep root systems. These challenging conditions naturally limit yields, resulting in smaller, more concentrated fruit. The vines are double Guyot trained to yield approximately 3.5–4.0 tons/ha (1.4–1.6 tons/ acre). Leaves closest to the bunches are carefully removed in mid-summer to provide better ventilation for the grapes and help them ripen slowly with good levels of natural acidity.
Harvest Note
Winter was very dry resulting in 15-20% lower yields. A frost-free spring gave way to a very warm summer requiring meticulous attention to harvest timing. Harvest was carried out from March 10 – 20. Smaller berries gave greater concentration and structure to the wine. Clusters were hand-harvested, sorted, and de-stemmed prior to pressing. A pre-fermentation cold soak at 10° C (50° F) for 7 days allowed for greater aromatic and color extraction. Alcoholic fermentation was initiated with selected yeasts at warmer temperatures (26-29° C/78.8–84.2°F) after which the wine was racked into oak barrels to continue maturation.
Tasting Note
Intense ruby-red with violet hues. Aromas of ripe berries, black plum, and sweet spices from 18 months in French oak. Hints of leather, dark chocolate, and toast. Smooth tannins and a long, balanced finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Syrah
APPELLATION: Apalta
PH: 3.48
ACIDITY: 3.94 g/l
ABV: 15%
AGING: New French oak barrels (70%) and second- and third-use (30%) barrels for 14–18 months
Unique Selling Points
- First ultra-premium Syrah in Chile, recognized at the best Chilean Syrah
- Grapes grown in the steepest, highest slopes of Montes vineyards in Apalta, Colchagua
- Has more color, tannins and flavors, making it richly complex and powerful
- Grapes are hand-selected and sorted on special selection tables
The story of Montes is a testament to what unique vision, grit, determination, and perseverance can achieve.
Aurelio Montes Jr, Chief Winemaker
About the Grape
Syrah
Syrah has seductively dense, rich, chewy black berry aromas and flavors, with notes of tar, wood smoke, bacon, leather, chocolate, and sometimes violets. The tannins are firm yet elegant.
