Alpha Special Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
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Chile / Colchagua Valley
The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards that produce the Montes Alpha Special Cuvee are located in the Colchagua Valley, at the Finca Arcangel de Marchigue Estate. The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards are located in the flatter areas of the vineyard, with a high proportion of rounded stones and red clay. The small amounts of Syrah and Carmenere that complement the wine are grown in parcels on moderate slopes where the natural vigor of the Syrah can be contained, while the Carmenere is able to ripen very well.
Harvest Note
The 2019-2020 season saw a very dry winter. The low availability of water explains the very significant drop in production yields. Spring was free of significant frost in the Colchagua vineyards, so the growing conditions were excellent. Summer had high temperatures that accelerated the ripening processes of the grapes, resulting in an earlier harvest date - in some cases up to a month early. The early harvest meant that bunches at harvest time had small grapes, creating a higher concentration of aromas, flavors, and color of the red grapes. This made for a very high quality wine.
Tasting Note
Aromas of ripe fruit, such as strawberry, red plum, cherry and a hint of dried fig. Notes from the 12 months spent in French oak barrels include vanilla, mocha, and toasted nuts. The palate is complex yet balanced and well structured with great body.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, 5% Carmenere
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.48
ACIDITY: 3.75 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 3.9
Unique Selling Points
- Vineyards located between the Coastal Mountain Range and the sea
- All grapes were harvested by hand
- May be enjoyed now or cellared for 10 or more years as wine evolves in its bottle
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
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
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.
Carmenère
Carmenère has spicy red berry aromas and black plum flavors, with a pronounced leafy and green bell pepper edge, and notes of grilled meat and coffee.
