2018 Montes Alpha M
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Montes Alpha M, from Apalta, Colchagua, is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot and aged in French barrels, four-fifths of them new. Garnet red in color. The time spent in the barrel has brought out cigar box aromas alongside black currant, cassis, mint and hints of camphor. This is a complex wine held together by firm, polished tannins that keep the powerful mouthfeel in check. Expressive and long-lasting.
Critic scores
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Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous
Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Montes Alpha M from Apalta reflects the beginning of a stylistic shift—no more bleeding, 70% new oak and long, low toasts. The result is expressive, with cassis, currant and strawberry notes. Fruity, intense and dry, it has a plush texture and reactive tannins. This is juicy and subtly mentholated on the finish. The 2018 represents a more nuanced, expressive style.