Montes Reserva Merlot

In 1987, Aurelio Montes and three partners founded the Montes winery. It would later become known as outstanding and phenomenal. And we agree, because Montes wines are world-renowned and delight everyone. The winery's history stretches far back in time, and we can taste it. The wines are becoming increasingly fuller and more powerful, thanks to Aurelio Montes's extensive work. He explains that significant investments have been made, including replanting certain vineyards and utilizing the latest and most modern winemaking techniques. The reins have now been passed to Aurelio Montes's son, Aurelio Jr. Montes. He learned the trade from his father and, inspired by his father, continues to craft wines from his beloved Chile.

The old Merlot vineyard in Colchagua Valley

The grapes for this red Merlot come from the Colchagua Valley wine region, known for its strong soil structure rich in organic matter, limestone, and gravel. This allows the vines to have deep roots and withstand the hot summer afternoons. The Merlot grapes ripen very evenly and enjoy both the sun and the cool breeze that blows through the vineyards from the Tinguirrica River. The harvest is entirely by hand, as the purity of the wine is paramount at Montes.

Wood aging for the Montes Reserva Merlot

The pure black juice is already priceless after fermentation and is aged in oak for a full eight months. Montes chooses to age half of the Merlot in French oak barrels. This gives it fullness and preserves its smoothness. This is also evident in the beautiful aroma, with its abundant richness of plums, strawberries, and cherries. Later, as the wine swirls in the glass, we also smell nuances of spice and a touch of vanilla. On the palate, it's a pure indulgence, with soft flavors of black fruit accompanied by a light spiciness from the oak barrel. A touch of cedar and vanilla on the back of the palate completes this red Merlot.