Taita 2015
Trade Tools
Chile / Colchagua Valley
The vineyards destined for Taita are located at Montes' El Arcángel de Marchigüe Estate vineyard. Like a large percentage of Chilean soils, those in Marchigüe feature decomposed granite soils. Some plots feature high clay content and moderate depths, while others are shallower with less clay, more silt, and more rocks. The Taita plot was influenced by glacial action, evidence of which are the sharp, angular stones left by passing glaciers in combination with round stones that resulted from water running over the surface of the vineyard area for ages. The Taita vineyards are dry farmed. The result of these naturally managed vineyards is fewer clusters per vine with smaller and more concentrated grapes.
Harvest Note
The 2014–2015 season resulted in the optimal development of all varieties. It began with good rainfall in the winter, which enabled us to accumulate a large enough water supply in the soil and reservoirs for the whole season. There was no signifcant spring frost anywhere in the valley, and the even budbreak was followed by good fruit set. The temperatures were particularly high during the summer, with historic peaks in March and an average temperature that was 35ºF higher than that registered in the past 10 years. However, the grapes reached harvest without any dehydration problems and with balanced potential alcohol levels and good pH and natural acidity. It was a year with considerable luminosity and very good temperatures, which allowed the fruit to develop disease free, with good skins, very good color, and an excellent degree of phenolic ripeness
Tasting Note
Deep garnet-red in color. The perfumed, complex nose exhibits a wide range of ripe red- and black-fruit aromas along with interesting spice notes, delicate toast, and leather fragrances. The palate is exuberant and round with well-structured tannins that lend breadth, sweetness, and a remarkably long finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% at the winemaker’s discretion
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley
PH: 3.4
ACIDITY: 5.55 g/l
ABV: 15%
AGING: Aged in brand new French oak barrels for 24 months
Unique Selling Points
- Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, Aurelio Montes decides the other varieties to add
- Aged in new French oak barrels for 24 months
- Well-structured on the palate with firm, nicely incorporated tannins
- Has the potential for long ageing, can be cellared for more than 15 years
- A concentrated and complex wine of extremely limited production
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
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
