Limited Selection Chardonnay 2023
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Chile / Aconcagua Coast
The vineyards for the Limited Selection Chardonnay are located in the Aconcagua Costa region. All vines are vertically trained and drip-irrigated, with yields kept below 10 tons/ha (4 tons/acre). Leaf thinning is done sparingly on the side facing the morning sun, allowing moderate sun exposure to the grape clusters. This approach enhances airflow and indirect light, both essential for even ripening and for developing the wine’s creamy texture and expressive aromatics.
Harvest Note
The season began with a cool spring and higher soil moisture across most vineyards. Early to mid-summer saw above-average temperatures, which eased in March. Ripening slowed toward harvest due to morning fogs from Aconcagua. Grapes are hand-harvested and processed either by direct pressing with stems or a cold soak without stems for up to 6 hours on skins. After 24 hours of settling, the juice is racked into fermentation vessels. Alcoholic fermentation, using selected yeasts, lasts 15–20 days. Starting with the 2023 vintage, oak was introduced to enhance complexity and mouthfeel.
Tasting Note
Medium gold with a greenish hue, this wine offers aromas of mango, pineapple, and papaya. The palate echoes the tropical fruit, layered with subtle toasted hazelnut. Creamy, fresh, and easy to drink, it’s both flavorful and approachable.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Aconcagua Costa
PH: 3.16
ACIDITY: 3.85 g/l
ABV: 13.5%
AGING: 20% of the wine is matured in French oak barriques and the remainder ages in concrete eggs
Unique Selling Points
- Multiple techniques for processing the fruit add complexity to the wine
- Coastal vineyards in Leyda and Casablanca Valleys
- Unique combination of aging vessels in concrete eggs and oak barriques
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
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
