Montes & Steadman Create Attractive Chilean Wine

Last week's #WineChat was sponsored by Chilean winery Montes Wines and Aurelio Montes Jr., who featured two entry level wines: the Montes Cherub and Montes Twins. I have written favorably about the winery in the past year and these wines were not an exception. Like the reminder of their portfolio the grapes were harvested from dry farmed vineyards from one of the winery's three estates in the Colchagua Valley. Not only were the wines themselves attractive, but check out the labels. These two were designed by famed artist Ralph Steadman, who many know from his Flying Dog Brewery labels. And actually every Montes wine includes an angel on the label as co-founder Douglas Murray believed angels protected him.

Montes Cherub Rosé of Syrah 2015, Colchagua Valley Chile ($15, 13.5%) - The grapes were harvested from El Archangel Estate, Marchigue vineyard located 25 km (15.5 miles) from the Pacific Ocean coastline. The cool climate and gentle pressing provides a sense of freshness.  The wine features a candied apple color which makes the dry strawberry flavors, cracked pepper and a refreshing acidity finish a very pleasant surprise. The label refers to a young angel (cherub) named Alfredo, named in honor of founding partner Alfredo Vidaurre.

Montes Twins Red Wine 2013, Colchagua Valley Chile ($15, 14%), Malbec & Cabernet Sauvignon grapes harvested from the Apalta and Marchigüe vineyards. The former estate is located just north of Santa Cruz in the Colchagua Valley.  This is an excellent entry level red wine with it's baking spices aroma; juicy plum flavors; and slight pepper on the easy finish.