Montes, Alpha M 2019
Product Information
Country Chile
Region Apalta
Grape Variety 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot
Vintage 2019
ABV 14.5%
Discover the elegance of the Andes with the Montes Alpha M 2019, a world-class Chilean red wine crafted from hand-harvested grapes grown on the steep 30º slopes of the renowned Finca Apalta vineyard. This ultra-premium blend showcases the best of Chilean viticulture, with limited yields and meticulous winemaking delivering a wine of exceptional depth, complexity, and ageing potential.
Vineyard & Terroir
The grapes for Montes Alpha M 2019 are sourced from the top vineyard parcels of Finca Apalta, one of Chile's most prestigious wine regions. Nestled between the Tinguiririca River and ancient mountain slopes, the terroir features diverse soils from deep, alluvial flats to rocky, eroded hillsides. Cool night-time temperatures extend ripening, ensuring full flavour development and fresh acidity. This low-yield vineyard produces only 3.5–4 tonnes per hectare, contributing to the wine’s incredible concentration and structure.
Vintage
The 2019 vintage in Apalta was marked by dry weather and warm, stable conditions. Controlled water stress during fruit set encouraged exceptional colour intensity and tannin development. Warm but not extreme summer temperatures allowed for optimal ripening without heat stress, resulting in a vintage of outstanding balance and purity.
Vinification
Grapes were handpicked at dawn and carefully selected first in whole bunches, then individually berry-by-berry. Fermentation occurred in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, followed by a 10-day post-fermentation maceration. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation and matured for 18 months in French oak barrels, enhancing its texture and complexity.
Tasting Notes
Aged to perfection, Montes Alpha M 2019 displays a deep ruby-red hue. Aromas of ripe blackberries, cherry syrup, figs, and dried herbs unfold, layered with toasted French oak, sweet spices, tobacco, and a hint of earthiness. The palate is silky and refined, offering harmonious acidity, ultra-fine tannins, and a long, vibrant finish rich in dark fruit and spice.
Montes Wines – Premium Chilean Wines from Apalta & Colchagua Valley
Founded in 1987 by winemaker Aurelio Montes and his visionary partners, Montes Winery has become a global symbol of premium Chilean wine. At a time when Chile was little known for high-end wines, their mission was clear: to craft world-class wines that showcased the country's untapped potential.
Shop Premium Wines from Chile’s Top Wine Regions
Montes is a leading name in Chilean viticulture, with vineyards in the renowned Apalta and Colchagua Valley wine regions. The Apalta vineyard, with its rugged slopes and granite-rich, poor soils, proved ideal for low-yield, high-quality grape growing. Aurelio Montes was the first to recognize its potential, turning a once-barren land into one of Chile’s most prestigious wine appellations. In 2018, Apalta officially achieved DO (Denomination of Origin) status thanks in no small part to Montes' advocacy.
In 2024, Montes became B-Corp Certified, reinforcing their dedication to sustainable winemaking in Chile. They use a proprietary Sustainable Dry Farming irrigation system, cutting water use by 65% while enhancing fruit concentration.
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Montes Alpha Collection – Shop Chile’s Best Value Premium Wines
The Montes Alpha range started with the game-changing Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon in 1987, proving Chile’s capability in producing premium wines. Now expanded to include:
• Montes Alpha Carmenère – Smoky, spicy, and smooth
• Montes Alpha Merlot – Soft, fleshy, and full of ripe fruit
• Montes Alpha Chardonnay – Rich, tropical, and well-balanced white wine
Each wine is crafted with minimal intervention, precision irrigation, and a commitment to sustainable viticulture.
