Montes Alpha M(2003)

The slopes of Apalta in Colchagua (in the Central Valley) enclose a half-moon shaped area with a unique micro-climate, defined by the mountains and one of Chile's widest rivers, the Tinguiririca. The best slopes in this valley, with a 15% average inclination and over 45° in the upper slopes, are found on our property where we grow the grapes for MONTES ALPHA "M". Having a west-south-west exposure allows for exactly the right number of hours of sunlight and provides us with an ocean breeze (the sea is only 30 kms away). The very warm days but cool winds at night with their lowering read more...temperatures give a micro-climate particularly suited for growing red grape varieties. Add to this, the poor soils with little organic matter, drip irrigation, and the high density of vines (over 4.800 per hectare) make growing conditions "just right".

Montes Alpha "M" is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (80 %), Merlot (5 %), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Petit Verdot (5 %), which links all the othergrapes. The Cabernet Franc enhances the elegance of the first variety, and is in total harmony with the softness of the second and austerity of the third.

Description: A powerful wine with very good level of soft and rounded tannins. Intense dark red colour. The wine is elegant and has a very well defined character. The 5% of Petit Verdot is adding an extra element of complexity. There is an pleasant and harmonious marriage of fruit and the French oak.. The structure of this wine will keep it for at least 20 years.
Denomination of Origin: Santa Cruz Valley, Apalta single estate from the steeps slopes.
Oak Aging: 18 months in all new French oak.
Filtering: Very light filtering, avoiding over processing.
Yield of Vineyard: 3.5/4 Tons/Ha.
Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 80% + Cabernet Franc 10% + Merlot 5% and Petit Verdot 5%.
Cellaring Recommendations: Over 15 years.
Recommended Serving Temperature: 18º C (17º C – 19º C).
Decanting: Strongly recommended: Strongly recommended: One hour minimum.    (hide)