Wine Reviews

I once again found the 2022 Folly to stand out during my tasting at Montes, opening with a classic, varietal bouquet of black olives, dark fruits, violet and graphite. The mouthfeel is among the more inky and concentrated of the roster, although its richness feels more naturally attained rather than bolstered in the cellar. It concludes with an impactful, assertive finish that lingers with an additional round of ripe, luscious fruit flavors laced with subtle savory nuances and framed by fine-grained, powdery tannins.

The bouquet includes black fruit, star anise and cinnamon. Flavors of blackberry and strawberry are released on the smooth palate of this Syrah. After spending a few months in oak barrels, it has a good tannic structure and a supporting acidity. Cardamom and nutmeg spice up the long finish.

The bouquet includes black fruit, star anise and cinnamon. Flavors of blackberry and strawberry are released on the smooth palate of this Syrah. After spending a few months in oak barrels, it has a good tannic structure and a supporting acidity. Cardamom and nutmeg spice up the long finish.

The 2022 Montes Folly is 100% Syrah from Apalta in Colchagua. This aged for up to 18 months, 70% in new oak. It delivers dark fruit aromas with ash, spice, blackberry, blueberry, prune and oak. Less concentrated than in the past, this version feels more athletic, with elevated body but a slightly lean palate. Fine-grained tannins lend grip, drawing a focused line through the finish.

This Folly is floral despite the ultra-ripe fruit, with slightly less fruit sweetness than the 2021. Still very Folly in style, with a full body, voluptuousness and a pleasing finish. Tons of blackberries, dark chocolate, purple flowers, cherry liqueur and new leather.