Montes Alpha Apalta Vineyard Syrah 2000

Montes Alpha Apalta Vineyard Syrah (Colchagua) 2000: This has a typically Chilean glossy edge to the colour, which is remarkably dark and dense. An impressive nose, full of chocolate and coffee, blackberries and raspberries, spiced oak and cream. Occasionally there's a burning note of alcohol, no surprise as this wine comes in at 14%, but overall it seems pure and approachable. Dense, creamy, but stuffed with pure berry fruit and cream on the palate, with a good lick of oak, moderate-low acidity and ripe, approachable tannins. Bags of easily accessible pleasure here. Drink now or over the next five years. Very good. (9/1/04)