Taita 2018
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The Taita vineyards are located at Montes' El Arcángel de Marchigüe estate, at the western end of the Colchagua Valley and 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Like most Chilean soils, those in Marchigüe have granitic origin at various levels of decomposition. Some have high clay content and moderate depth, while others are shallower, with less clay and more silt and rocks. In the blocks dedicated to Taita, glacial influence stands out for its classic angular stones deposited by moving glaciers, as well as stones rounded and smoothed by surface water. The Taita blocks are uniquely dry farmed, developing naturally with fewer bunches of smaller, more concentrated grapes.
Harvest Note
The 2017 winter was the wettest in a decade with rainfall exceeding 19 inches in the Colchagua Valley. During spring, there were a few minor episodes of frost that didn’t cause any damage and temperatures remained cool through mid-November, which meant a couple week's delay in bud break and flowering. Summer was moderate with a notable dip in nighttime temperatures, again delaying the ripening of some of the red and white varieties by up to 14 days compared to the previous season. This allowed optimal development of vines during all phenological stages, before arriving comfortably at harvest. The Cabernet Sauvignon at a steady rhythm through a dry harvest, arriving at the winery in good condition and with great varietal expression during fermentation.
Tasting Note
Deep ruby-red in the glass, aromas of ripe strawberry, cherry, and cassis dominate the nose. on the palate, rich fruit is complemented by subtle notes of mint, leather and cedar. The texture is opulent with silky tannins, and a full body that lingers with complex aromas.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% at the discretion of the winemaker
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.54
ACIDITY: 3.63 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 80% of the wine was aged for 24 months in new French oak barrels. The final blend was then aged in oak foudres for 1 year prior to bottling.
Unique Selling Points
- Montes' super limited top wine
- Dry farmed, low-yield, berry selected, and long-aged for excellence
- From a single block in the Marchigüe Estate
- Well-structured and soft on the palate, with ample tannins
- Vineyards in Apalta, 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
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.
