Classic Merlot 2018
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
Montes Classic Series Merlot comes from vines planted on a variety of slopes at the Apalta and El Arcángel de Marchigüe vineyards in the Colchagua Valley. Bright ruby-red with a violet rim, this wine expresses aromas of fresh black fruits with mild notes of toast and chocolate over a spicy backdrop of white pepper.
91 Points
jamessuckling.com
2018 vintage
89 Points
Wine Spectator
2018 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2017-2018 season can be defined as ideal, in the pace and intensity of the plant development as well as in the qualities obtained. It began with abundant winter rainfall throughout the entire central zone and precipitation of approximately 420 mm in the Leyda Valley. This enabled a significant amount of water to accumulate in the soil, and subsequently, the optimal development of all of the important phenological stages. The spring was frost free, which allowed for good budbreak and fruit set. The summer was cool in comparison with past years, and the hottest month had an average maximum temperature of 77°F and a minimum of 48°F. The cool summer conditions delayed the onset of harvest to determine the perfect time to pick and thoroughly prepare for it. No rain fell during the ripening or harvest periods, which resulted in good health conditions and excellent chemical-physical parameters.
Tasting Note
The nose shows intense, with aromas of red fruits and fresh blacks, such as strawberries, plums and figs. The palate is soft attack, very harmonious. Its tannins are round and soft, and yield pleasant sweet sensations to the palate.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Merlot, 15% Carmenere
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.6
ACIDITY: 3.26 g/l
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: 45% of the wine was aged for 8 months in 1st-use French oak barrels.
Unique Selling Points
- Represents the outstanding value Chile can offer for everyday drinking.
- Grapes are handpicked and transported to the winery with the utmost care.
- 45% aged in French oak barrels for 8 months
- Smooth on the palate, soft, round tannins. Medium volume, rich natural acidity.
- 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
Merlot
Merlot makes plump, succulent wines to drink young or opulently massive wines for aging. Has silky, blackberry and currant fruit, with spice, earth, tobacco and chocolate notes, and soft tannins.
