Montes’ 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Classic Series is a light to medium-bodied Loire Valley inspired effort. It delivers aromas of freshly cut grass and citrus, lively acidity, a crisp palate feel, and moderate length. It is a very good value.Under the enlightened leadership of Aurelio Montes, the Montes winery remains one of the standard-bearers for Chilean wines. The Carmenere-based Purple Angel is one of the two or three best of its type; the Folly is arguably Chile’s finest Syrah, and the Montes Alpha M one of the Cabernet-based icons.Importer: TGIC, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (800) 924-0300

Maybe a little more ripe and heady than some of its Chilean buddies, but this SB from Montes offers freshness, zip and good citrus, tarragon and other green-herb flavors. The feel is good, the character fresh, and the finish long and clean. Offers maybe a little more green-leaf character than some might like, but overall this is another fine value SB from Chile. Drink immediately.——M.S.(12/31/2008)—— 87