Montes Classic Series, Curicó Valley Chardonnay
Country: Chile Region: Valle Central Vintage: 2021
Category: White Wine Color: White Varietal: White
Producer: Montes
The fact that the 'Classic Series' is Montes' entry point says a lot about this estate. The wines are all from their own vineyards, and from different appellations. And what appellations! The reds are all from Colchagua, while the Sauvignon is from cooler Casablanca. All are hand-picked to ensure a first selection in the vineyard. The Sauvignon Blanc is made in a fresh, unoaked style which highlights the pristine fruit. Richer on the palate, the Chardonnay is 60% fermented in oak, and half the blend goes through malolactic fermentation. This gives a texture and complexity seldom found in Chardonnay at this price. The Merlot from Colchagua is aged for six months in American oak and has 15% of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. Both add complexity to the plummy, exuberant fruit that makes this wine so appealing. Both the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Malbec are also from Colchagua, and display the depth of colour and flavour that this region lends to its red wines. These wines offer outstanding quality for the price.
Winemaker: Aurelio Montes Baseden
Vineyards:
The Chardonnay grapes come from the Curico Valley. Curico's mediterranean climate is a result of the vines being shielded from the Pacific Ocean by the Coastal Range. Chardonnay from Curico is riper in comparison to the cooler climate regions in Chile, but is still able to retain freshness due to cool nights. All grapes were hand harvested.
Vinification:
A portion of the grapes were put into tank and cold soaked at 10°c for four hours to enhance the aromatics. The remainder of the grapes were gently crushed, settled and then fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks for 15-17 days. 15% of the blend underwent malolactic fermentation to give richness to the wine and 35% of the blend was aged in French oak barrels (25% new, the rest second fill) for eight months.
Tasting Notes:
Aromatically intense on the nose, with clean notes of tropical papaya, peach and grapefruit. The nicely balanced French oak gives the wine a light touch of vanilla and toast. The palate is crisp and fresh, light bodied and lingering on the finish.
Food Suggestion: Pair with salmon ceviche, Chilean sea bass with sautéed mushrooms and rice and fettuccine Alfredo.
Closure: Stelvin ABV: 13.5% Acidity [g/l]: 3.74
