Alpha Apalta Vineyard Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley 2009

Starts with leather and some sharpness but soon finds its way to floral berry fruit aromas and then creamy plum and raspberry flavors. Solid in terms of feel, with mild tannic bite and then an easy, almost shy finish with herbs and leafiness. If you know Montes, this is straight from central casting.

The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Classic Series is round, ripe, and forward in an uncomplicated style. The flavors are attractive and the wine has a pure, fruit-filled finish. It is a very good value in Cabernet.

The fact that the wine's bouquet is subdued and gentle is a bonus. This version offers some creamy oak character and smooth but simple berry flavors. Not stellar but not bad, either.

Some Merlot added to the Cabernet creates a jammy, soft nose and a round, easy mouthfeel. The fruit is pure throughout, with tasty cassis and plum lifted by light tannins. With chocolate and spice on the finish, this is a fine Cabernet for the price.

Shows a tasty mix of freshly crushed red berry and blackberry fruit, with a touch of toast and a hint of grilled herbs. Drink now.

Bright purple. Sexy, oak-spiced raspberry and blackberry aromas offers the clarity, intensity and visceral appeal of a $50 Napa wine; subtle floral and herbal qualities build with air. Fleshy and sweet, with deep dark berry liqueur flavors, no obvious tannins and a long, sappy finish. For fans of lush, jammy, fruit-driven wines, this is an absolute no-brainer.

This wine blends ripe cherry flavors, sweet spices and youthful tannin. Serve it with a steak.