Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
This Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced primarily from Montes' Finca Apalta Estate vineyard with some additions from their Marchigüe Estate vineyard. These two unique vineyards feature granite-rich soils in differing degrees of decomposition. Both have considerable variation in the clay content, depth, and organic matter from the influence of erosion and deposits from local rivers over time. The soils are generally deep in the flat areas and thinner at the foot of the mountains and at higher elevations. Cabernet Sauvignon is planted on flat or slightly sloping ground where the soil is deeper and has a moderate capacity for moisture retention.
Harvest Note
The season began with a mild winter and close to 1 foot of rain in Apalta. Irrigation began later in the season thanks to a cool, rainy spring which also allowed us to conserve water for the summer season. The summer was dry, without precipitation endangering the health of the grapes nor excessive warmth damaging vines or grapes. Thanks to the conditions of hydric stress between fruit set and veraison, the size of the grapes was restricted, creating a good ratio of skin to pulp, producing fruit with extraordinary color, concentration, tannic richness, and excellent aromas.There was no precipitation in March or April, which allowed Montes to wait for complete phenological ripeness without the presence of disease that could have affected the quality of the wine. The year presented no adverse weather events, producing healthy, quality grapes that in turn gave us clean musts of great potential.
Tasting Note
Deep ruby-red color. The nose has a complex range of aromas, principally of ripe red and black fruit, such as strawberry, blueberry, and black plum. There are well-balanced notes of tobacco, leather, and toast, thanks to the ageing in barrel. There are also dairy notes similar to yogurt and toffee. On the palate the tannins are very smooth, while the wine shows balance, body, and a long finish well aligned with the aromas perceived on the nose.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.45
ACIDITY: 3.68 g/L
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 100% of the wine ages for 12 months in French oak barrels, 30% first use, 70% second and third use.
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 3.57 g/L
Unique Selling Points
- Pioneered the way for all premium wines in Chile, remains #1 in the niche
- Awarded ‘Top Scoring’ and ‘Best Value’ by the influential, Wine Spectator magazine
- Perfectly round tannins that trigger an explosion of fruit
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.
