Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

The Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 is crafted from select vineyards in the Colchagua Valley, Chile - a region renowned for producing premium red wines. The vineyards span the Apalta and Marchigüe estates, areas distinguished by their unique terroirs. Apalta's soils, a mix of decomposed granite and eroded mountain materials, produce grapes with elegant aromas and deep colour. Marchigüe, with its shallow, clay-rich soils, contributes robust structure and concentrated flavours. The region's wide diurnal temperature range and optimal growing conditions make it ideal for cultivating exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.

This wine is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot, showcasing a sophisticated, full-bodied style. The vines are double Guyot trained, with carefully managed yields to ensure grape quality. The resulting wine balances ripe fruit characteristics with refined complexity, highlighting the excellence of Colchagua Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2022 vintage benefited from ideal conditions, including cooler evenings during harvest, allowing for gradual ripening and enhanced flavour development. Grapes were hand-harvested, meticulously sorted, and macerated for five days before fermentation with selected yeasts. Following fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, with 50% of the barrels being new. This careful vinification process contributes to the wine's depth and complexity.

The Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 shines with a vibrant carmine-red hue. The nose is elegant and inviting, revealing layers of ripe red fruits like strawberry and cherry, intertwined with cassis and fresh tobacco. Barrel aging imparts nuances of toasted oak, caramel, dulce de leche, and hazelnuts. On the palate, it offers a smooth, well-balanced experience, with a full-bodied structure and flavours that echo its aromatic profile, leading to a long finish.

This wine is an excellent companion to red meats, including lamb chops with Cabernet and mushroom sauce or Mongolian beef. It also pairs beautifully with pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese and hearty, umami-rich meals. For best enjoyment, decant for at least 30 minutes and serve at 15°–17°C. Perfect for immediate enjoyment or cellaring for up to 10 years.