Summary: We head south of the border to showcase the best of Chilean viticulture…the Lost Grape. Carménère once flourished in the vineyards of Bourdeaux but died out over the centuries due to competition with its more famous cousins and the dreaded Phylloxera root louse. Thought to be extinct, it was re-discovered by accident growing in the vineyards of Chile where it had been hiding in plain sight for over 100 years. Long confused in the vineyard and blended with its close cousin merlot in the winery, it wasn’t until the 1990s when genetic testing revealed the Chile actually harbored large acreage of the Carménère grape! Today, Carménère is recognized as Chile’s signature grape.
Tasting Notes:
Brought north to Massachusetts, the grapes yield a rich wine with aromas of blackberry, black plum, vanilla, and mocha with a hint of zesty black pepper and kitchen spices on the lingering finish. Perfectly pairs with grilled meats, hearty pastas, or sharing with good friends!
Aging Potential: Enjoy over the next 3-5 years
Technical Data
Appellation: Curico Valley, Chile
Varietal Composition: 90% Carmenere / 10% Cabernet France
Aging Protocol: 30 months in well used French & American oak barrels. Bottled aged for an additional 6 months.
Alcohol: 13% ABV
Production Volume: 678 bottles
Prior Vintages:
