The 2005 Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon has considerably more weight than the Merlot. The fruit is darker with a quality nose of cedar, leather, espresso, and black currants. The wine’s texture is supple and there is enough tannin to support 2-3 years of cellaring. This well-made Cabernet can be enjoyed through 2020. Over recent years, Montes has been one of the standard-bearers of quality wines from Chile under the leadership of Aurelio Montes. The lineup is top-notch from entry level to top-of-the-line.Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (800) 924-0030

Delivers a juicy beam of graphite, licorice, sweet vanilla and crushed plum flavors, with the graphite edge hanging on the finish. Well done. Drink now through 2008. 45,000 cases made. -JM

Starts out with subdued aromas of forest floor, black olive and pine needles before it bursts with black-fruit aromas. The palate is a bit heavy and sticky, but it houses legitimate cassis, black plum and berry flavors. A pure, serious Cabernet from a good vintage and a good region.——M.S.(11/15/2007)—— 89