At a glance

Producer

Montes

Region

Valle de Maipo, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-50 USD

Tasting profile

Rich blackcurrant and cassis notes with hints of mint, chocolate, cedar and subtle spice. Firm structure.

Evolution: Subtle tertiary notes (tobacco, leather, earth) will develop as fruit softens. Tannins will resolve and complexity increase.

At peak: Elegant, harmoniously integrated Cabernet showing savory depth, persistent finish, and developed secondary aromas.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium-high, ripe, well-integrated

Alcohol

14-14.5% ABV

Aging potential

7-10 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2032

Current status

Youthful, primary fruit dominant, tannic structure present.

Current condition

Approachable now with decanting; will benefit from further bottle age.

Slower evolution in quality cellaring conditions will expand aromatic complexity while softening tannins and integrating oak. 2026-2030 is expected to be this vintage's expressive zenith before gradual decline.

Food pairing

Red meats (beef, lamb), grilling, hearty stews, aged cheeses, mushroom dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium-high tannins which can benefit from aeration to soften and enhance its flavors, despite being relatively young at 4 years.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Montes employs dry farming, drip irrigation to conserve water, over 20% of energy on site is solar; full recycling of packaging; composting and biodiversity initiatives in vineyard.

Montes is an acknowledged leader in South American sustainable winemaking. Their strict water conservation, energy self-generation, waste reduction, and sustainable viticulture put them at the forefront, though international shipping does add to carbon impact. Overall, the wine aligns closely with best practices in environmental and social responsibility for a global producer.