Grape Variety: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Carmenere

Growing Region: Colchagua Valley - (Apalta vineyards), Chile

Chief Winemaker: Aurelio Montes

TASTING NOTE:
The fruit for this exciting wine comes from their "La Finca" Estate in the Apalta Valley (Santa Cruz D.O., a sub-denomination of Colchagua Valley). The harvest was so good this vintage, Aurelio evaluated releasing a full Carmenere wine, but after several blending sessions decided that this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carmenere brought forward the best of both varieties. Aged in American oak for six months and with only one soft filtering, it has excellent mouth feel and balance.

The wine is strong in colour, with a deep ruby red filling the glass. On the nose you have butterscotch and the subtle spiciness makes it appealing, with a strong personal character. The well integrated vanilla flavours come from the oak aging, and adds complexity and elegance. The palate is warm and mouth filling with balanced rich fruit from the Cabernet and Carmenere grapes. This is a medium to full bodied wine but yet soft and friendly in the palate due to the sweet and firm tannins of the Carmenere component.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking well now, plus will age for another 5-6 years with careful cellaring.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with Lamb shanks, Fillet steak, even soft Brie and crusty bread.

90 Points - Beverage Dynamics