Alpha Chardonnay 2016
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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
The 2015-2016 season was a little out of the ordinary. It was normal to good in terms of water availability, with optimal moisture in the soil at the time of flowering. Rainfall was very sporadic, but significant in terms of volume and intensity, which affected fruting in those areas where the rains coincided with flowering mid-November. The summer was not that hot, with only a few temperature peaks in January and February. Overall, temperatures were below historical averages, especially in March with an average temperature 2° lower than in 2015. This had repercussions for ripening, especially for the red varieties. The grapes ripened at least 12 days later than they did in the previous year. But the fruit reached the winery in very good condition. Bunches had fewer berries than in 2015, but they were bigger, with excellent skins that deliver fresher aromas and complex, structured palates.
Tasting Note
Brilliant, light golden-yellow color. The perfumed nose offers notes of cherimoya, ripe pineapple, while hints of pear and banana add complexity to the profile. The palate is focused with crisp acidity complementing a voluptuous structure and body. A certain mineral note, characteristic of the terroir, lingers on in the long and elegant finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Aconcagua Coast
PH: 3.41
ACIDITY: 3.36 g/L
ABV: 13.5%
AGING: 35% of the wine is kept for 12 months in French oak barrels
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 3.38 g/L
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
- 35% aged in French oak barrels for 12 months
- Smooth with perfectly balanced acidity, a fresh wine with generous volume
- Vineyards located in the Aconcagua Coast region
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.
