Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
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.
92 Points
jamessuckling.com
2020 vintage
93 Points
VinousMedia.com
2020 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2019–2020 season saw another very dry winter. The low availability of water explains the very significant drop in yields -approximately 15–20%. Spring was free of significant frost in the Colchagua vineyards, providing excellent growing conditions. Summer had high temperatures that accelerated the ripening process, resulting in a harvest date for both white and red grapes that was moved forward by almost a month, in some cases. Bunches at harvest time had small grapes, positively affecting the concentration of aromas, flavors, and color of the red grapes, giving the grapes very high quality for processing.
Tasting Note
This has a layered and complex nose with aromas of fig, blackberry, and crème de cassis, with subtle notes of cayenne pepper, dark chocolate, leather and tobacco. Full body and perfectly integrated tannins support the bountiful fruit in the midpalate.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
PH: 3.51
ACIDITY: 3.72 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels
Unique Selling Points
- Pioneered the way for all premium wines in Chile, remains #1 in the niche.
- Awarded ‘Top Scoring’ and ‘Best Value’ by the influential, Wine Spectator magazine
- Perfectly round tannins that trigger an explosion of fruit
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
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.
