The Colchagua Valley extends from San Fernando in the north to Chimbarongo in the south. The climate is Mediterranean, and the area receives winds from the south and morning fog. Springs are frost-free, and summers are very warm, which encourages proper ripening. Summers are hot but with cool night temperatures. The soils are medium to very deep, of alluvial origin, and have a silty-loam texture that allows for good vine development. The grapes were hand picked in late April and early May and submitted to a week-long pre-fermentation cold treatment at 8ºC (46ºF) to extract more fruit characteristics. Alcoholic fermentation took place at 25º–28ºC (77º–82ºF) with pumpovers determined by daily tastings through the end of the process. A post-fermentation maceration followed, and then the wine was devatted, separating the free-run wine from the skins. Malolactic fermentation took place naturally. 20% of the wine was aged in French oak for 6 months and then blended for a more complex character.
Tasting notes
Purplish-red colour. Intensely fruity nose, with standout plum and redcurrant aromas and hints of toast and blackcurrants. Smooth, ripe, velvety tannins and good density. An enjoyable and persistent finish.
Food match
Ideal served with barbecued red meats and stews, and well-seasoned white and game meats. Also excellent paired with pastas such as rigatoni and ripe cheeses.