Limited Selection Chardonnay 2024
Trade Tools
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 harsh winter and abundant rainfall, which helped ease a 15-year drought and significantly boosted vineyard vigor. Spring was cooler and cloudier than usual, delaying flowering and veraison by two to three weeks. Temperatures remained mild throughout most of the summer, with a few brief heat spikes. As a result, harvest took place approximately two weeks later than usual. In the cellar, bunches underwent careful selection before they were gently crushed and held at cool temperatures for 10 hours to extract aroma. Alcoholic fermentation was carried out by selected yeasts at cool temperatures for 21 days and the wine rested in steel tanks before being bottled.
Tasting Note
Bright straw-yellow with soft golden highlights. Aromas of lemon and mandarin mingle with pineapple and subtle white flowers like jasmine. Hints of butter and oak are seamlessly integrated. Fresh and juicy, with a citrus-driven profile, creamy texture, and vibrant acidity that adds lift and tension.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Aconcagua Costa
PH: 3.15
ACIDITY: 5.77 g/l
ABV: 13.5%
AGING: 20% is in French oak barrels and the remainder in concrete eggs
Unique Selling Points
- Unoaked with no malolactic fermentation
- Coastal vineyards in Leyda and Casablanca Valleys
- Unique combination of aging vessels in concrete eggs and steel tanks
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.
