The 2018 vintage in Chile has been universally praised as extraordinary by producers and critics alike. I wanted to try a few easy-to-find wines that I had tasted in past vintages and see if their 2018 stood out. Continue reading
Tag: cachapoal
Wine Review: Viña Vik
I’ve been told that Chile is basically owned by around 20 large families, and that power structure certainly extends to the wine industry. That’s what makes the growth of small independent producers and the revival of Pais so amazing. Plus, there are new producers popping up all the time. In the case of Viña Vik, it’s quickly risen to the top in just around 15 years since its founding. Continue reading
Wine Review: Rare Carmenere Taste-off
Although Carmenere is now considered the national grape of Chile and is widely distributed globally, there is still Carmenere being made at the artisanal level worth exploring. Continue reading
Wine Review: Valentine’s Day Wine
As Valentine’s Day approaches, many of you will be having romantic meals with your significant others. What could be more symbolic of a wine choice with that meal than sharing your Corazon (heart) with them? Continue reading
Wine Review: Comparing Cheap vs. Expensive Los Boldos Cabernet Sauvignon
Is the more expensive wine worth it? Does terroir and winemaking matter that much? Let’s compare 2 differently priced bottles from the exact same producer, same region, same vintage, and same varietal. Why does one cost more? Continue reading
Wine Review: 2013 Trabun Syrah Cachapoal
Small independent producer worth trying. Continue reading
Wine Review: Malbec Taste Off (France, Argentina, & Chile)
Most of you are familiar with Argentinian Malbec, but how does it compare to Malbec from its original home in France? In addition, where does Chilean Malbec fit in? Continue reading
Wine Review: 2016 Calyptra Grand Reserva Sauvignon Blanc Cachapoal
Calyptra Sauvignon Blanc is quite the find. This wine comes from the D.O. Alto Cachapoal Valley. The vineyards are organic and located at an altitude of 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level. With this wine you also have oak aging. The fermentation took place in 600 liter (160 gallon) barrels made from French oak which were coopered here in Chile. The wine was inside these barrels between 18 and 24 months in contact with its lees. Afterwards, it was bottle aged for one year before going to market. Continue reading