Classic Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
This Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced primarily from Montes' Finca Apalta Estate vineyard with some additions from their Marchigüe Estate vineyard. These two unique vineyards feature granite-rich soils in differing degrees of decomposition. Both have considerable variation in the clay content, depth, and organic matter from the influence of erosion and deposits from local rivers over time. The soils are generally deep in the flat areas and thinner at the foot of the mountains and at higher elevations. Cabernet Sauvignon is planted on flat or slightly sloping ground where the soil is deeper and has a moderate capacity for moisture retention.
Harvest Note
Winter 2022 varied significantly by region. From the Cachapoal Valley south, rainfall levels were near normal, while some areas in the Maule and Bío Bío Valleys received more. In the Colchagua Valley, particularly Montes’ vineyards, rainfall was typical, with 548 mm at Apalta and 334 mm at Marchigüe. The season began cool in the Central Valley, with no major frost. However, temperatures increased during late spring, with some days well above average. Summer arrived warm from the start, unlike previous harvests. Thermal accumulation was higher than the previous season, especially in March, leading to an earlier harvest. Fortunately, picking was completed before the first rains, ensuring full grape maturity without phytosanitary issues and resulting in excellent quality. The wines exhibit great complexity in fruit, concentration, and freshness.
Tasting Note
Ruby-red in color. The nose offers great expression of fruit, such as cherry, strawberry and plum, with a delicate touch of tobacco and vanilla. The palate is balanced, with silky tannins, medium body and an enjoyable finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon 15% Merlot
APPELLATION: Central Valley
PH: 3.48
ACIDITY: 3.36
ABV: 14%
AGING: 40% of the wine was kept for 8 months in French oak
Unique Selling Points
- Vineyards located in Apalta and Marchigüe, Colchagua Valley.
- Represents the outstanding value Chile can offer for everyday drinking.
- 100% Hand-harvested
The story of Montes is a testament to what unique vision, grit, determination, and perseverance can achieve.
Aurelio Montes Sr, Chief Winemaker
About the Grape
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
Merlot
Merlot makes plump, succulent wines to drink young or opulently massive wines for aging. Has silky, blackberry and currant fruit, with spice, earth, tobacco and chocolate notes, and soft tannins.
