"This is the first of a new range of Kaiken wines. A CORTE, the Argentinean word for blend, made up of Malbec (80%), Bonarda (12%) and Petit Verdot (8%). The grapes were carefully grown and selected by Aurelio Montes from Mendoza´s premier wine regions. The Malbec contributes a soft structure and lovely aromas of violets and dry plums; the Bonarda provides a lovely nose and soft tannins and the Petit Verdot adds strength and body. The wine has been aged in French oak for 7 months, resulting in an elegant balance between fruit and oak; a wine which is both distinctive and captivating, where all three grape varieties work in perfect harmony".

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2007, 90 Points: “A big, full-bodied Malbec with charm. The nose is toasty, with black fruit, chocolate and other stocky, earthy aromas. Saturated in the mouth, with concentrated black fruit flavors. Shows touches of mint and spice on the_finish along with coffee, licorice and chocolate. Drink now through 2012. Imported by T.G.I.C. Importers.“ —M.S.

Kaiken Malbec 2008, 88 Points: “A chunky, deep-fruited Malbec that is all about blackberry fruit. There’s no funk or odd, floral, overcropped aromas here; instead, it’s focused on roasted blackberry flavors, a natural herbal character, and coffee and mocha on the finish. Emphasizes size and friendliness. Imported by T.G.I.C. Importers.“ —M.S.

By Jorge Carrara
“At year’s end it’s almost inevitable to automatically make a list of the wines I have tasted over last months. So, from the wines I reviewed in 2009, which were my favorites?” … “I close the list with a neighbor: the Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006. Produced by the Argentinean branch of Chile’s Montes winery, it’s a reflection of the strength that Chilean investments are giving to the Argentinean viticulture. It’s one of the wines that shined in the Expovinis show. Retailing for nearly 60 Reales, stood up (deliciously) amongst much pricier and pretentious reds. Now I raise my glass (literally), to make a wish so that in 2010 we will have more wines like these, with good value for money performance! Cheers!”

Kaiken Malbec 2007, 88 Points: “The 2007 Malbec saw 60% of the wine aged for 9 months in American oak. The nose presents aromas of cedar, spice box, lavender, and black cherry. This leads to a friendly wine with plenty of sweet fruit, good depth of flavor, and a fruit-filled finish. Drink it over the next 4 years.”

In the special “Best in the World of Wine” issue, Wine & Spirits tracks through two years of tastings to shine some light on the best values wines.

According to the magazine: “In the simplest terms, value is the relationship between quality and price. There’s some deep emotional place in most people’s minds, however, that makes it nearly impossible to separate those two criteria.” … “We’ve made a statistical analysis of our ratings in relation to price and found that indeed there is a predictable relationship between the two: In general, the higher the score, the more expensive a wine is likely to be. However, this is not always the case – and it’s on those instances where the greatest values lie… We have highlighted the wines that performed better than their price would predict.”

In the “Argentina Malbec” Category, 24 Best Values wines were selected from 90 wines recommended over the past two years. Our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005 was selected, scored 90 points, $24.

This delightful, fresh and crisp Rosé has been made with Malbec grapes from our estate in Vistalba (Mendoza). Made in the traditional method, we have early harvested the grapes and then, before fermentation, the skins are kept macerating over night at 10°C (50°F) until an intense and generous colour is reached. The fermentation then is made like white wine at low temperatures. This lively wine is very fruit forward and rich providing a dry and freshness sensation, making it ideal to drink by its own or matched with seafood or any kind of fresh salads. Enjoy it!

NATALIEMACLEAN.COM Canadá, June 4, 2009
Very good scores in Canadá

Natalie MacLean, famous Canadian wine writer and accredited sommelier, recently reviewed our Kaiken latest releases, including our soon to be released Icon wine. We received very good scores as follows:

Kaiken Icon Malbec 2007 (not yet released)
Score: 95/100. “This as yet unnamed flagship wine for Kaiken is breath-taking in it’s scope and depth. It’s made by blending Malbec grapes from different vineyards that the estate owns. Classic, deep, rich and redolent of dark fruit and smoke. A wine for collectors.”

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006
Score: 93/100. “A towering wine with terrific structure and depths of violet-blackberry aromas. Round, smooth and supple with whiff of vanilla smoke in the background.”

Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Score: 92/100. “Velvet-rich with persistent flavors of blackberry and black cherry. Just a touch of mocha and cassis in the background. Full-bodied and balanced. About 85% of this wine was made from grapes that were grown on 40-year-old vines.”

Kaiken Malbec 2007
Score: 89/100. “This bold Malbec features attractive aromas of blueberry, black raspberry, spice box, chocolate and sandalwood. It’s dry, medium-bodied with fresh fruit flavors balanced by decent acidity and ripe tannins. A fantastic value.”

Kaiken Rosé Malbec 2008
Score: 89/100. “Love it! A field of ripe strawberries: refreshing and bone dry. Lovely acidity and amazing quality. The winemaker used the press method rather than saignee and a low-temperature fermentation to create a wine of elegance.”

ARGENTINA WINE AWARDS 2009 February, 2009
Kaiken achieves 4 medals in Argentina

Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 obtained a Gold Medal at the third Argentinean Wine Awards. This competition gathers the most outstanding wines in the country. In addition, Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006, Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 and Kaiken Malbec 2007 were all awarded Silver Medals. This event was held at the Sheraton Hotel in Mendoza, with a record presentation of 512 samples corresponding to 128 wineries. Kaiken was one of 28 gold award-winners amongst 392 reds. The jury was made-up by 18 people on behalf of the USA, UK, Canada, Brazil and Argentina.

WINE ACCESS, CANADA November, 2008
Kaiken in the International Value Wine Awards

Our Kaiken Malbec 2006 (88 points) was selected as “Hot Buy*”, “Judges´ Choice” and “Top Scoring Reds under $15” in the 2008 International Value Wine Awards (IVWA) hosted by Wine Access magazine. Also, Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (87 points) was selected as “Hot Buy*” and “Judges´ Choice”. This competition is for wines available in Canada for less than $25 retail. The IVWA is judged blind, by panels of experts from across Canada, including wine writers, journalists, sommeliers, educators, and the Wine Access tasting panel of experts.
The 2008 IVWA took place in Calgary, Alberta, from June 19 to 28 and the results appear in the October/November 2008 issue of Wine Access.

*Hot Buy: Wines boasting a superior quality (score) for the price point.

“MALBEC TO THE WORLD 2008” CONTEST, MENDOZA, ARGENTINA
November, 2008
Gold Medal for Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006

During the fifth version of the International Contest “Malbec to the World 2008” (Malbec al Mundo 2008) held on November 14 in Mendoza, Argentina, our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2008 was awarded the Gold Medal. The tournament was sponsored by the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) with the participation of a sophisticated jury from England, France, Chile, Brazil and prominent specialized journalists. “Malbec to the World” expects to promote premium Malbec wines worldwide and looks forward to becoming the Luján-Maipú region’s symbol. We are delighted with the recognition allotted to our Malbec, particularly given the international significance held by this Contest.

WINE ENTHUSIAST, U.S.A. December 01, 2008
Kaiken Ultra Malbec received 91 points by Wine Enthusiast

An excellent rate has received our Malbec 2006 from Wine Enthusiast magazine:

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006, 91 points: "Kaiken Ultra has emerged as consistent top-shelf Malbec. This vintage show power, purity, mineral, ripe fruit and well-applied oak. It's a generous wine with kirsch and raspberry parfait flavors. It almost makes it to creamy but by holding onto its core acidity it guard overall balance. Unforced but a little forceful; good for those who like a ripe, meaty red wine. Imported by T.G.I.C. Importers.-M.S."

Kaiken Reserve Malbec 2006, 89 points: "Solid stuff, with a touch of leather and earth mingling with candied dark-fruit aromas. The wine is plush and ripe, with full black cherry and plum flavors sitting on a sturdy, medium-tannin frame. Appealing and approachable, with no glaring flaws. Excellent for near-term drinking. Imported by T.G.I.C. Importers. Best Buy. -M.S."

WINE SPECTATOR November 15, 2008
90 points to Kaiken Ultra Malbec in Wine Spectator

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006 has been rated with 90 points by Wine Spectator, November 15 issue. According to Wine Spectator: “Ripe and solid, with a nice range of blueberry, fig and boysenberry fruit layered with sweet toast that carries through on the long, polished finish. Drink now through 2009. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 20,000 cases made. - J.M.”

WINE SPECTATOR ONLINE September, 2008
Kaiken Ultra Wines in Wine Spectator Value Finder

Our Kaiken Ultra wines have been selected by Wine Spectator Value Finder as one of the best values they´ve tasted in the past year. According to this web site, in Argentinean reds $30 and under:

Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2005: Score: 89 points; Price: $25; Issue: Nov 30, 2007. “Shows focused loam, currant, fig and coffee flavors that linger nicely on the muscular finish. Drink now through 2008.“ 6,000 cases made.

Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005: Score: 88 points; Price: $25; Issue: Nov 30, 2007. “More like Cabernet than Malbec, with dark, muscular currant, blackberry and coffee notes, followed by a loamy hint on the plush finish. Drink now through 2008.“ 6,000 cases made.

WINE NEWS, U.S.A August / September, 2008
Great scores to Kaiken from Wine News Magazine

91 Points: Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006
“Inky hue with a fuchsia rim. Fresh aromas of plum and blueberry with a note of charcoal. Lively black cherry fruit with a smoky oak nuance threaded throughout. The close is youthful, tannic and acidic with plenty of peppery black fruit. $25.“

90 Points: Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
“Purple to the rim. New oak, plum and vanilla aromas. Black cherry fruit with an immediate charred oak and mineral influences. The finish is lengthy with cherry and mocha being primary. $25.“

88 Points: Kaiken Malbec 2006
“Purple hue with a fuchsia rim. Smoky black fruit aromas with a hint of chalk. Supple plum and black cherry flavors laced with graphite and pepper. Crisp finish with spicy oak accents. $14.“

88 Points: Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
“Intense purple hue. Charred oak aromas followed by mint, coconut and mocha. Peppery cherry flavors with spicy oak and an eucalyptus-like buzz that carries through to the close. $14.“

96-100 Points: Superb
90-95 Points: Outstanding
85-89 Points: Very Good
80-84 Points: Good
70-79 Points: Acceptable
0-69 Points: Not Listed

Link: http://www.thewinenews.com/current/buyline.asp

EXPOVINA, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND August, 2008
Gold Medal to Kaiken in Switzerland

Our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006 has been awarded the “Gold Medal“ (89 Points) in Expovina Wine Competition, the biggest and most important in Switzerland. This fair is a wine exhibition like no other, where visitors climb aboard ships anchored at Burkliplatz Dock on River Maur in Zurich for a series of wine demonstrations and tastings. Over 4,000 wines from wine regions around the world exhibit at the show that is popular with restaurateurs, wine connoisseurs and industry professionals. We are proud to be one of the favorite wines of the Swiss wine lovers!

O ESTADO DE SAO PAULO, BRAZIL May 15, 2008
92 Points awarded to Kaiken Ultra: a new argentinean diva

by Saul Galvão
The renowned Brazilian journalist Saul Galvão has awarded our Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 with an outstanding 92 points prominent amongst other cabernets in Mendoza.
Galvão pointed out that: “without a doubt it stands out amongst the most elite Cabernets in Argentina. Kaiken is the undertaking of the famous Chilean Montes vineyard in Argentina. “Ultra” is this brand´s exceptional line of wines. The winemaker Aurelio Montes is highly respected and celebrated for his extensive expertise producing magnificent wines for Chile.
Montes has now crossed the Andes. Today, he´s making extraordinary Cabernets and Malbecs in Vistalba, Lujan de Cuyo in Mendoza. Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon tops the list holding 12 months storage in oak barrels and 9% Malbec. A refined and complex aroma, controlled traces of wood, some mineral, toast and fruit. Exquisite on the palate, a sense of roundness, smooth. Easy to drink. Great acidity, deliciously rich. A wine with a high graduation although alcohol is not clearly experienced, finishing in a well-rounded, balanced, optimum finale. 14.5% alcohol”.

Where to find it: Vinci. Telesales: 6097-0000
Price: R$ 58,30
Point: 92/100 points

WINE & SPIRITS June 2008 issue
90 Points to our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005

Wine & Spirits magazine has selected our Kaiken Ultra as one of the Year´s Best
Argentine Malbec. A wine recommended from a total of 140 Argentine malbecs, tasted by blind panel and reviewed by Patricio Tapia… “Juicy flavors of ripe strawberry and dry cherry fill this warm malbec, the scents of tobacco adding complexity. It’s soft and round; to pour with lamb chops. (W&S 2/08).“

NEW DESIGN FOR KAIKEN ULTRA LABEL!

We are very happy to inform you that, we have made some changes to our Kaiken Ultra label. In fact, we have made it even more elegant, appealing and more distinctive.

The use of the black colour and the red or orange colours provides a harmonious look of the label. We hope that you like them as much as we do.

WINE & SPIRITS February 2008
90 Points to Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005

A great score to our soft and round Malbec.
Imported new releases. Argentina Red / Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005: “Juicy flavors or ripe strawberry and dry cherry fill this warm malbec, the scents of tobacco adding complexity. It’s soft and round; to pour with lamb chops. T.G.I.C. Importers. Woodland Hills, CA.”

OREGON LIVE BLOG GROUP, U.S.A. December 15, 2007
Kaiken selected as one of the Top 25 Wines for 2007
Wine Bytes - Oregon Wine News & Reviews - OregonLive.com

To commemorate a great year the Oregon Live Blog Group have released their top 25 wines for 2007. Our Kaiken Malbec 2005 is included as one of the best. The list showcases the best wines tasted with a particular emphasis on quality products that represent outstanding values.

90 Points: Kaiken Malbec 2005
“The 2005 Kaiken from the Mendoza region of Argentina is a mouthwatering Malbec made by Montes from Chile. Deep aromas of dark fruit and terroir, redolent of rain soaked farmland. Flavors of sweet berries on a large mocha frame with a racy satisfying finish. Billed as the best from both sides of the Andes I would be inclined to agree. If it’s your turn to bring the wine to dinner impress your dining companions with this wonderful representation of the up and coming Malbec varietal. This would also be a wine to seek out on restaurants wine lists as it is a solid bargain, holding it’s own with wines three times the price.“

ROBERT PARKER, WINE ADVOCATE December 22, 2007
Great scores from Robert Parker
Very good news from Robert Parker´s Wine Advocate. The recent issue 174 includes two excellent scores to our wines: Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006 received 91 points and Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon received 90 points. An early Christmas gift for us.

91 Points: Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006. “The 2006 Ultra Malbec was aged for 12 months in French oak. The oak influence is apparentin the attractive perfume which also has notes of violets, black cherry and a hint of chocolate. This is followed by a structured wine that will benefit from 2-3 years of additional bottle age. The fruit is mouth-filling and has good depth and the firm finish lasts for more than 45 seconds.“

90 Points: Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2006. “The 2006 Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon received 12 months in French oak. More refined in style with aromas of cedar, tobacco, coffee, and black currant, it reveals plenty of lush, sweet, spicy dark fruit, excellent balance, and a lengthy finish. It should evolve for several years in the bottle and drink well through 2020.“

WINE ACCESS, CANADA October, 2007
Kaiken Reserve Malbec 2005 selected as the Best Malbec in Canada
Our Kaiken Reserve Malbec 2005 has been selected as the Best Malbec in the 2007 International Value Wine Awards, organized by Wine Access Magazine. Winning wines truly distinguished themselves as this year´s competition that featured just under 1,000 wines entered from 271 wineries and 14 countries. Each wine was blind tasted, some up to four separate times by a group of 27 judges, representing 6 Canadian provinces and both national and international media. This carefully devised and executed system, employed by Wine Access at all its wine awards competitions, produces results that lead Canada by being as objetive and concise as possible. Full results of these awards will be published in the October/November edition of Wine Access.

WINE ENTHUSIAST October, 2007
91 Points for Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005
Buying Guide “Since coming onto the scene with the 2002 vintage, this Chilean-run venture (Montes S.A.) has hit the right notes time after time. The 2005 is exactly as we’ve come to expect: It’s saturated, dark, meaty and ripe, with huge blackberry flavors and lavish creamy oak. Very modern, but done in the right way.“

VINTAGES, CANADA August, 2007
An exceptional Argentinian Malbec in Canada
Our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005 came out specially highlighted as "The New Discovery", “An exceptional Argentinian Malbec“, “A five star wine“ in the last “Vintages“ publication of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) in Canada.

LCBO is considered to be the largest single alcohol buyer in the world. “Vintages“ is their Fine Wine Category and the last issue presents the new releases available from all over the world. According to Vintages, “On a trip to South America, our buyer was introduced to Kaiken –a boutique winery in Argentina´s renowned Mendoza region… Kaiken is a sister winery to Montes in Chile (a VINTAGES customer favourite). The expertise of Montes and the enviable terroir of Argentina come together perfectly at Kaiken, where production is dedicated to four premium wines. Kaiken´s Ultra Malbec recently received five stars from Decanter; only two of the 123 Argentine Malbecs tasted received this distinction. We weren´t surprised by this wine´s caliber, but were blown away by its value. Priced at under twenty dollars, this powerful and elegant Malbec will fly off the shelves. Don´t miss your chance to discover an exceptional premium wine without the premium price tag.“

HYATT WINE AWARDS 2007 July, 2007
Kaiken is granted a Gold Medal at the Hyatt Wine Awards 2007, Argentina
Our Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 obtained an outstanding Gold Medal at the Hyatt Wine Awards 2007, held at the Park Hyatt Mendoza Hotel from 11 to 13 July, Argentina. A complex task for the international jury performing blind tasting of over 358 Argentinean wines of 157 wineries nationwide. We are delighted: our Kaiken was ranked amongst the greatest!

VINEXPO June, 2007
Kaiken: for the second time in Vinexpo
Great success of our Kaiken wines in our booth in Vinexpo 2007, Burdeaux, France. It was a joint presentation with our Montes and Montes Alpha from Chile. Our booth was visited by numerous importers and journalists who enjoyed the great quality of our Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Mendoza region. The star of the tasting was our new Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2006, a wine that wine lovers will be talking about.

DECANTER May, 2007
Decanter awards five stars to Kaiken Ultra Malbec
The prestigious magazine Decanter (UK) recently awarded one of our wines the highest distinction of 5 stars at a tasting of Argentinean Malbecs. Of the 123 wines tasted, only two received this distinction, and one of them was Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2005. This wine also was highlighted in the magazine’s “Recommended Wines” list. According to a report by Guy Woodwards, this 5-star wine has “Toasty black fruits. Very oaky but starting to integrate, lots of rich black fruit, concentrated, very good finish. Warm. 1-7 years. (BB)”. The results of the tasting were published in the journal’s May 2007 issue, which also includes an introductory article by Anthony Rose on the perfect characteristics of the terroir in Mendoza, Argentina for growing this varietal.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL IN SINGAPUR March, 2007
Kaiken Malbec selected by Shangri-La Hotel in Singapur
We are proud to announce that our Kaiken Malbec has been added to the wine list of the exclusive Shangri-La Hotel of Singapore. The hotel is one of the world’s most renowned and luxurious, a true business and social center in the heart of the city. We are grateful to have been included on their wine list and it motivates us to know that our Malbec is appreciated by discriminating wine lovers in that prosperous nation. Kaiken Malbec is featured on the exclusive Lobby Court Wine Selection.

WINE ENTHUSIAST February, 2007
90 points for Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon in Wine Enthusiast
Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 received an excellent score of 90 points in the journal Wine Enthusiast, joining the ranks of our Malbecs. The editors state that, “Right off the bat you can tell this is a smooth, balanced, modern Cabernet because the bouquet pushes fruit, richness and spice in equal amounts. Alluring and dark on the palate, with cassis, olive and chocolate flavors. A masculine wine that doesn´t tread lightly. From Montes out of Chile.- M.S.“

WINE ENTHUSIAST February, 2007
Our Malbecs are granted two outstanding scores by Wine Enthusiast
91 points: Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2004
90 points: Kaiken Malbec 2004

91 points granted to our Malbec Ultra 2004
Wine Enthusiast has granted 91 points to our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2004, it is amongst the highest scores granted to wines in Argentina. The magazine states this Malbec is “fairly well roasted and beefy, with dark-fruit aromas and a strong hint of chocolate on the nose. The palate is international in personality, meaning developed berry flavors are blended with
oak-based toast and chocolate. It really spreads its wings on the finish, and should drink nicely for another three years.-M.S.“

...And 90 points for our Malbec 2004
We were also awarded an outstanding score with our Kaiken Malbec 2004. The specialized magazine states that the 2004 version is “wavy and earthy, but with plenty of oak and stout black fruit. This is a stocky Malbec with a ton of oak-based chocolate, mocha and mint surrounding intense but not overly complex berry flavors. It’s a mouthful for sure, with all the heft and richness Argentina has to offer. Best Buy.-M.S.

I-WINE REVIEW December, 2006
I-Wine Review highlights Kaiken as Top outstanding Malbec
I-Wine Review has recently chosen us amongst the 5 most outstanding Malbecs
in Argentina at the "The International Wine Review". The sample included 150 Malbecs from recognized Argentinean vineyards.

In the category of wines below US$ 15, our Kaiken Malbec 2004 obtained the second highest result with 90 points, adding to an extensive list of recognitions. "The dark ruby 2004 Malbec is of medium weight, displays an attractive bouquet of violets and raspberries and is lush in the mouth with good depth of chocolate-accented fruit. Great value!".

In addition, our Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2004 was chosen amongst the wines under the category over US$ 16 with the second highest result totaling 88 points: "The medium to dark ruby 2004 Malbec Ultra shows graphite on the nose and presents a lovely soft, plush texture with modest fruit and chocolate flavors and firm tannins."
www.i-winereview.com

WINE ACCESS September 16, 2006
Canadá labels Kaiken the “Best Malbec”
Wine Access, the leading wine review magazine in Canada has selected KAIKEN Reserve Malbec 2004 as the “Best Malbec“ and in its 2006 version of the “International Value Wine Awards“ it has also acclaimed it as the “Best Argentinean Red Wine“ in Canada (totaling 89 points).
Anthony Gismondi, the Magazine´s Editor in Chief lead the selection process made up by 18 well-known judges in the winemaking business from various provinces in Canada. Over 1.000 wines available in the Canadian market entered the competition, price ranged from $25 and below and from 17 countries. Results will be published in the November, 2006 edition.
www.valuewineawards.com

INDY INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION 2006 July, 2006
Two Silver Medals to Kaiken
KAIKEN Ultra has been awarded two Silver Medals in the 2006 Indy International Wine Competition: KAIKEN Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 and KAIKEN Ultra Malbec 2004.

In 1992, Purdue University‘s knowledgeable staff of wine experts teamed up with the Indiana State Fair to create one of the largest wine competitions in North America and the largest competition outside California. Their goal is to identify, reward, and promote excellence in winemaking at the comercial and amateur levels. This year, more than 3,600 of the world‘s best wines were judged by over 80 wine experts. Entries were received from 41 American states and seventeen countries.

WINE ENTHUSIAST November 15, 2004
90 Kaiken 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon $13 Editors' Choice
Lauded Chilean winemaker Aurelio Montes traveled across the Andes to Argentina to make this wine, just like the native Kaiken bird does when it migrates. And for a first effort, it's impressive, especially given the price. Look for plum, licorice, cassis, earth and coffee aromas and flavors. The bitter-chocolate finish is dynamite in terms of tannic structure and length. A flat-out bargain from an excellent Argentinean vintage.

FOOD & WINE Wine Guide
20 Best New Wineries By Richard Nalley
KAIKEN 2002 Malbec ($ 13)
Argentina has raised Malbec, a minor blending grape from Bordeaux, to the level of fine wine, and this dense, dark version elevates Malbec even further. The winery is co-owned by Chilean star winemaker Aurelio Montes, who named the place after a type of wild goose that, like himself, can be spottled on both sides of the Andes.

WINE SPECTATOR
Montes Crosses the Mountains to Argentina
Posted: Wednesday, November 26, 2003 By James Molesworth
In a move that seemed inevitable for one of Chile's most energetic and respected winemakers, Aurelio Montes has now set up an operation on the other side of the Andes, in Argentina. Montes, co-owner and winemaker of Viña Montes, is set to release his first Argentinean Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, under his new Kaiken label, in January.

Kaiken is just the latest expansion project for Montes, who has extensive plantings in Chile's Marchigüe region coming into production soon. He is also building a new winery in Apalta, where he makes his outstanding Folly Syrah and Alpha M Cabernet blend.

Both of the Kaiken wines, which are set to retail in the United States for about $10 a bottle, are from Argentina's outstanding 2002 vintage. Tasted with Montes in Wine Spectator's New York office in October, the Malbec showed ripe berry fruit with elegant floral hints, while the Cabernet showed a chewier, more raisiny profile. Wine Spectator will formally review the wines in a blind tasting when they are officially released.

Kaiken is a Mapuche Indian word for a Patagonian goose that lives on both side of the Andes. The wines are produced from purchased grapes sourced from several different vineyards in the Tupungato area of Mendoza, and are being made at a leased winery facility. After determining which areas produce the best fruit, Montes eventually plans to acquire his own vineyard land in Argentina and build his own winery there.