Montes, Alpha Merlot, Colchagua Valley, Chile, 2013

The Alpha range of wines by Montes is reliably good value. This Merlot has super-concentrated cassis on the palate with a touch of dried basil and rosemary and some violet notes. Extremely ripe, sweet and juicy with a full, dense mouthfeel. Gorgeous, but a bit one dimensional. Thankfully the generous acidity prevents this fruit bomb from becoming a cloying mess. Drink alone if your palate is up to it, otherwise soften the impact by drinking with grilled meats or strong cheese.