With the 1996 vintage of Montes Alpha M, Aurelio Montes jolted the high-end Chilean wine scene into life. 2018 was another superb year for this Cabernet Sauvignon, which is topped off with Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot to achieve a sophisticated expression of blackberry, cherry, blackcurrant, graphite and oak alongside good structure, fine, juicy tannins and a finish of blackcurrant jam.

Black fruit, dried herbs, spices and earthy undertones. Hints of bark and cedar, too. Full body with firm tannins that are fleshy in texture and provide excellent structure. Layered with a fruity core. Savory and succulent finish. This needs time to come together and mellow a bit, but very serious. Try after 2024.

Refined and powerful, with juicy richness to the raspberry tart, red plum and red currant flavors that are backed by vibrant acidity and tannins. The creamy finish is fine-textured, lingering with mineral and spice. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Drink now through 2027. 4,000 cases made, 550 cases imported.

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. -- Joaquín Hidalgo