Montes Alpha 'M' 2020

Montes Alpha M comes from Montes' Finca Apalta Estate vineyard in the heart of the Colchagua Valley. The granitic soil of the Apalta estate boasts incredible diversity, ranging from fluvial to glacial, and varied in the clay content, depth, and amount of organic matter. Some zones are influenced by the Tinguiririca River while others are marked by mudslides and the detachment of material from high above in the mountain chain that delimits the valley. One of Chile's most celebrated wines, Alpha M is extremely limited in production, from low yielding blocks in the upper, mountainous sections of the vineyards with thin soils. Rigorous berry selection further intensifies this remarkable wine.

80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. 70% of the wine was aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels. The remaining 30% was aged in second- and third-use barrels.

"The 2020 Montes Alpha M is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot from Apalta, Colchagua. It was aged for 18 months in 70% new barrels. Purple in hue. The nose presents boldo and garrigue notes along with redcurrant and spice over a layer of cedar. Indulgent and juicy in the mouth, the polished, reactive tannins sculpt the palate before the lingering, complex finish. Like previous vintages, this is a red made with a nod to Napa." - 95 Points, James Suckling

"This understated version wows with finesse, displaying an entry with fresh tobacco and cigar box details that reveal a smooth-textured frame. Shows a sneaky concentration of blackberry and cassis, offering excellent length, with iron twinges to the finish and round, polished tannins." - 94 Points, Wine Spectator

Producer: Montes

Country: Chile

Region: Colchagua Valley

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Appellation: Colchagua Valley

Vintage: 2020

Size: 750ml