Montes announces release of new projects

06/05/05 Exploring new terroirs in Chile and beyond, innovative Chilean winery Montes S.A. announces the release of several new projects: Montes Purple Angel, a Carmenere from the winery's Marchigue and Apalta estates in Colchagua, Chile; Montes Limited Selection Sauvignon Blanc, made from grapes grown in Leyda, a sub-appellation of Chile's cool, northern San Antonio region; and the Kaiken Ultra line, consisting of a Malbec and a Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina.

A spirit of adventure and the quest for quality led the Montes team to experiment with new terroirs and grape varieties. Once found in Bordeaux, it was wiped out by a vine pest infestation in the 19th century. However, cuttings taken to Chile by early winegrowers escaped the devastation and now the grape is often considered "Chilean." Historically used by most winemakers as a blending grape, Carmenere makes up a full 92% of Montes Purple Angel 2003, with Petit Verdot the remaining 8%. This lovely wine is full bodied, with ripe tannins, good structure, and dark blackberry fruit aromas with spicy, lively notes. Suggested retail price is $48.

Another exciting development for the winery is the new Montes Limited Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2004, produced from grapes harvested in Chile's Leyda Valley, a new appellation showing great promise for cool-climate grapes. "Leyda is one of the most beautiful corners of the so-called 'cold area' for wine production," notes President and Winemaker Aurelio Montes. "It's the only place in Chile where you can taste wines and watch the sunset in the Pacific Ocean." Refreshingly crisp, Montes Limited Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2004 displays complex tropical fruit characters with lively citrus notes. Suggested retail price is $16.

Montes' search for great vineyards doesn't stop at Chile's borders. The winery is introducing two ultra-premium wines -- a Malbec and a Cabernet Sauvignon -- under the Kaiken Ultra label, made from grapes grown in the Mendoza region of Argentina. Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2003 is soft and creamy on the palate, showing delicious cherry-chocolate and spice notes, with a touch of violets and silky red fruits. Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 displays currant and blueberry flavors, with hints of dried herbs, tobacco, and dark coffee leading to a long finish. Suggested retail price for each is $23.00.

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