Alpha Syrah 2016
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
Montes Alpha Syrah was made with selected grapes from the vineyards in the Colchagua Valley irrigated according to the Water Saving Winegrowing system that Aurelio Montes and his team developed over the course of years of research. This system allows Montes to determine the precise amount of water it need to add to the vineyards after the winter rains, especially in particularly dry years when irrigation is indispensible. This has enabled Montes to reduce irrigation water by 65% while simultaneously improving the quality of the fruit.
Harvest Note
The 2015 – 2016 season began with a winter that was drier than the previous year (15% less rain in Marchigüe and 7% less in Apalta). However, higher rainfall during the second half of October enabled an optimal level of water in the soil. The mild spring allowed for optimal bud break, foliage development, and flowering. The summer was particularly dry with a cool start, especially in January. February, however, was one of the hottest in recent years. March was cooler, which slowed ripening by 2–3 weeks. A few rainstorms complicated the harvest, but the winery was able to harvest without significant loss of quality. In general terms, the 2016 harvest was a good quality vintage with nearly each variety planted obtaining good ripeness. The tannins ripened nicely, which allowed for an earlier harvest with lower potential alcohol levels coupled with very good acidity, aromatic intensity, and tremendous color.
Tasting Note
Deep ruby-red in color with violet nuances. The nose is very expressive with aromas of ripe blackberries, figs, crème de cassis, and hints of leather and dark chocolate. The palate is well balanced with bright acidity, smooth tannins, ample structure, and generous volume. The finish is long and considerably complex.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 90% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Viognier
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.60
ACIDITY: 3.48 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 55% of the wine is kept for 12 months in French oak barrels
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 2.66 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
- 55% aged in 1st, 2nd and 3rd-use French oak barrels for 12 months.
- Well balanced on the palate with rich acidity, smooth tannins, tremendous structure and volume.
- Vineyards located in Apalta and Marchigüe, Colchagua Valley
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
Syrah
Syrah has seductively dense, rich, chewy black berry aromas and flavors, with notes of tar, wood smoke, bacon, leather, chocolate, and sometimes violets. The tannins are firm yet elegant.
