Alpha Chardonnay 2020
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Chile / Aconcagua Coast
The vineyards for Montes Alpha Chardonnay are located in the Aconcagua Costa region. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the pronounced influence of sea breezes provide ideal conditions for Chardonnay to ripen slowly and completely. The highly variable soils, which range from sandy to clay-loam, lend this wine enormous complexity with tremendous cold-climate typicity, but with an impressive aromatic palate. The most important clones used are Dijon 76, which contributes tropical fruit and citrus notes, and clone 95, which lends great volume to the palate thanks to the highly concentrated grapes it produces.
Harvest Note
A dry season, with yields reduced 15–20%, intensified the wines. Summer's high temperatures accelerated the ripening process and meant harvest was a month earlier in some cases. The low fruit set resulted in bunches at with small grapes, positively affecting the concentration of aromas, flavors, giving very high quality for wines.
Tasting Note
Notes of ripe tropical fruit including papaya and pineapple, together with notes of asparagus typical of the cool-climate area of the Aconcagua Valley coast. The 12 months in barrel lend very delicate toasted notes, together with a hint of vanilla and nuts.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Aconcagua Costa
PH: 3.25
ACIDITY: 3.55
ABV: 14%
AGING: 35% of the wine aged for 12 months in French oak barrels of first, second and third use.
Unique Selling Points
- Vineyards located in the Aconcagua Coast region
- Smooth with perfectly balanced acidity, a fresh wine with generous volume
- 35% aged in French oak barrels for 12 months
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
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
