Montes Folly

Montes Folly is the flagship wine of the Chilean winery Montes — a Syrah that shows what the steep slopes of the Apalta Valley in the Colchagua Valley can achieve.

Aurelio Montes planted Syrah on steep, south-facing slopes with red granite and clay slate soil—a decision considered madness at the time (hence the name). The vines are tended by hand, and the grapes are selectively harvested. The wine is aged in French barriques, a significant proportion of which are new.

In the glass, an inky ruby ​​red, almost black. The nose offers blueberry, blackberry, and plum, underpinned by incense, lavender, and a hint of leather. On the palate, it is dense and concentrated: ripe blackcurrant meets coffee, tobacco, and vanilla. The tannins are firm but well-integrated—the finish is long, spicy, with black pepper and cedar.

Drinking window: 2025–2035, even longer if the bottle is stored properly. Decanting recommended — at least 60 minutes. Serving temperature: 17–18 °C.

• Served with braised leg of lamb with rosemary
• Dry-aged ribeye from the grill
• Mature Manchego or Idiazábal