Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Montes
Label Name:
 
Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage:
 
2021
Country:
 
Chile
Region:
 
Colchagua Valley (Finca Apalta & Marchigüe)
Volume:
 
375ml
ABV:
 
14.5%
Grape(s):
 
90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
Acidity:
 
3
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
James Suckling 94 (2023); Vinous 93; Wine Spectator 90; Wine Enthusiast 90

Tasting Note
Layered aromas of fig, blackberry and crème de cassis with dark chocolate, leather, tobacco and a hint of cayenne. Full-bodied, ripe mid-palate fruit with well-integrated fine tannins and a long, slightly peppery finish.

Food Pairing
Western: grilled ribeye, roast leg of lamb, braised short ribs, aged cheddar. Asian: Mongolian beef, Korean BBQ (galbi), char siu pork, Szechuan beef or spicy stir-fries.

Production Method
Hand-harvested grapes from Apalta and Marchigüe; fermented in stainless tanks and matured in French oak barrels (approx. 12 months, ~50% new).

Vineyard Info
Viña Montes (founded 1988) is a leading Chilean producer. Alpha was their first premium Cabernet export; fruit comes chiefly from their Apalta estate and Marchigüe vineyards.