Alpha Chardonnay 2022
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Chile / Aconcagua Coast
The vineyards that produce grapes for Montes Alpha Chardonnay are located in the Aconcagua Costa region. The proximity of the vines to the Pacific Ocean and the pronounced influence of sea breezes provide ideal conditions for Chardonnay to ripen slowly and completely. The high variability in the 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
After several years of drought, the 2020–2021 season began with heavy winter rains, though concentrated in just a few bursts. Spring brought minimal frost, fortunately leaving production unaffected. The vineyards showed strong vegetative growth and a smooth fruit set. Summer was cooler than expected, with a slow, extended veraison. Shortly after veraison, significant rain fell across Chile’s winemaking regions. Along the coast, fruit and leaves were removed to improve ventilation and sunlight exposure, ensuring the remaining grape bunches stayed healthy until harvest. The Chardonnay harvest finished about four weeks later than the previous year, as the grapes ripened more slowly in the coolest areas. This harvest is notable for producing fresh white wines with low alcohol, vibrant natural acidity, excellent aromatic potential, and strong aging potential.
Tasting Note
Notes of ripe tropical fruit including papaya and pineapple, together with notes of asparagus typical of the cool-climate style 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: 3.43
ACIDITY: 3.7
ABV: 14%
AGING: 30% 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
- 30% 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.
