Montes Alpha M 2020

The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Alpha is also 10% Syrah and 5% Carménère from Marchigüe, Colchagua, and was aged for 14 months in one-third new barrels. Dark garnet red in hue. The ripe nose ranges from blackberry to cassis with hints of spice and faint balsamic notes. In the mouth, this has a full body, reactive, grippy tannins, and good juice and structure. Very much reflecting the character of the variety right now; it might be best to put it aside for a while.

Olives and fresh blackcurrants with nice twists of bay leaf and dark chocolate. This is a medium-bodied cabernet sauvignon with crunchy red and black cherries and tight but silky tannins. More red fruit here. 10% merlot in the blend.

After 12 months in oak barrels, wood notes are well integrated in this red. It has a fruit-forward nose of berries blended with licorice, eucalyptus and peppercorn. The palate delivers smoke and juicy black fruits over a chalky texture and bright acidity. A dash of bay leaf complements the flavors. This wine is medium bodied and has slightly drying tannins, but it’s very approachable.