Tasting Notes

We have over 1,500 tasting notes (scores & reviews) of Chilean wines we’ve tasted. Currently, this is only a hobby for us, so we don’t have the time or money to systematically blind taste all the wines in the same setting with a detailed rubric as some critics may do. Some of the wines were tasted at a tasting event without food. Most were purchased by us and tasted at home, often with a meal. Some were tasted over several days. The temperature, glasses, food pairings and other variables were not uniform.

Plus, wines are like people. They evolve and change. They have their good days and bad days. Tasters can have bad days too: allergies, stress, distractions, etc. Tasters can just have different days and they change too. What you ate earlier in the day can affect your taste buds. Wearing cologne or perfume can affect your smell. If I’ve had several of one style of wine in a row, I may end up liking a wine that contrasts that better or a wine similar to that less because I’m bored with the style. Some wine lovers even believe your wine tastes better on certain days according to the moon cycle

Therefore, one good or bad score doesn’t necessarily reflect the final authority on this wine. Not to mention, there are so many subjective aspects of scoring. Even professional critics’ scores can be very different for all these reasons. You will see different scores between Curt and I too. Our criteria, the quantitative weighting of the criteria and palates differ some. However, we hope to give a general idea of the overall style and quality of any given wine/producer from our tasting notes and scores.

How do I (AC) personally grade wines? I don’t have the time to use a detailed rubric each time I drink a wine, but I’ve been scoring all the wines I’ve drunk since 2010, so I have a lot of shortcuts in my head. I really try not to add points for wines exceeding expectations based on price, variety or appellation, but I think all of us have a tendency to do that a bit. If a cheap wine from a lesser variety and lesser region really impresses you, you might overrate the wine. However, the same can happen for expensive wines. I try not to give extra points based on aging potential, but I will give a plus or range if I think it will improve. Instead, I try to give a rating based on how it is at the moment. Although color and appearance should be part of wine rating, I wouldn’t give too many points for it. Unless a wine really looks rancid, I would almost never take away points for color. Therefore, my biggest criteria are the aroma (intensity, complexity, balance and enjoyment/beauty of the flavor) and palate (intensity, complexity, balance (acid, tannins, alcohol, oak), enjoyment/beauty of the flavor, and length). If no score is given, it usually means I didn’t feel I had enough time with the wine to give it a rating, it’s a genre of wine I’m less familiar with or conditions weren’t right to give it a fair rating such as my allergies were bothering me.

You can also read my Chilean and non-Chilean wine notes here on cellartracker, but they only go back to 5/2020 and only feature wines in my collection.

Click here to see our Chilean Tasting Notes on Google Sheets (to see the most updated notes or to download):

Reviewer Initials: AC=Aaron Chan; CS=Curt Schwarz, CSW

Bodega/VinaVintCuveeValleyVarietal(s)TypeScoreWine/Tasting/Notes/Technical/Information/Recommendations/Misc.TasterDateWebsite/Contact
2 Enologos2023Domaine D'Apalta Le Blanc des AmisValle del ClaroSauvignon BlancWhite89Lime, passion fruit. A bit of 2nd use American oak. A bit lower acid than average and bit more body and alcohol.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/losdosenologos/
2 Enologos2023Baron de Casas Semi SweetCuricoSauvignon BlancDessert89Good acid. Apricot. lacks the thick texture of other Late Harvest but has better freshness. I like this. I could see this working with stinky salty cheese.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/losdosenologos/
2 Enologos2020Les Deux oenologues Grand VinMaipoCabernet S.Red881-3 use oak. Still young. Medium tannins. Higher acid for Cabernet. Medium+ body. Certainly a leaner, more French influenced style but doesn't have texture and well-integrated new oak that better Bordeaux have. 88+
AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/losdosenologos/
5ta Dimension by Cesar Lupo2021La ConexionItataCinsaultRed91Native yeasts. Fruity floral nose but a bit shy. The palate is more powerful than average. More body. More tannins. Chalky tannins. High acid. There's a savory side. Cinsault that can age some and improve. 91+
AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/5dwines/
5ta Dimension by Cesar Lupo2021Coronel de MaulePaisRed91 Native yeasts. Juicy, minerally red fruited light but somewhat tannic Pais. 91+
AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/5dwines/
5ta Dimension by Cesar Lupo2021Arquetipo 1MaulePaisRed91Aged in old used oak. Less nose than the other Pais. Similar palate but a little more body and less acid. More tannic. Still red fruited. Overall, both Pais and the Cinsault are more substantial than most. More potent and tannic. More serious with some short term aging potential. 91+
AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/5dwines/
A los Vinateros Bravos2016GraniticoItataCinsaultRed90PnP Nose and palate started off very minerally. Must be the granite soil. Some spice. After time it was all floral (rose) on the nose and palate. Darker fruit (dark red berry) and lower acid than I thought it would be. A little camphor and stem. A bit wild like many Cinsault you find from this region. Alcohol is actually 13.5%, but it’s not hot. No hard edges. The winemaker is Leonardo Erazo (also the winemaker for Altos Las Hormigas in Mendoza) and he has other wines which he also labels by soil type such as Volcanico and Granitico trying to show the difference in terroirs. Of course, he works with Pedro Parra on that. Some of the vines are 100-year-old dry farmed bush-trained vines. Organic. Native yeasts. The nose and floral nature are quite nice. The touch of bitter camphor faded awayAC4/3/20https://www.facebook.com/leonardoerazovinos
A los Vinateros Bravos2022GraniticoItataCinsaultRed9160-100+ year old bush vines located about 25km from the ocean. Essentially a natural wine with minimal sulfur added. Native yeast fermented in concrete and aged in really old barrels. Obviously, this is to show off the granite terroir above all. This features red fruit, some floral notes and lots of rocky minerality. Similarly, on the palate you get strawberry and raspberry in a light-body, medium+ acid and a streak of minerality although the palate is fruitier than the nose. An easy to drink wine, but also terroir driven.AC11/14/23https://www.facebook.com/leonardoerazovinos
A los Vinateros Bravos2019VolcanicoItataPaisRed90Takes 10-15 minutes to open up, revealing lots of minerality on the nose and palate. Dark fruit. Low-acid. A little spice and licorice. Chalky tanninsAC5/10/21https://www.facebook.com/leonardoerazovinos
AcrobataNAEntre Cordilleras Numero 4ColchaguaBlendRed9060% Cabernet S., 30% Carmenere, 10% Syrah. 2,603 cases made. MOVI wine. Rather typical Chilean nose, but with some cinnamon spice. Red cassis. dark red fruit overall. Smooth tannins, vanilla, spice, herbal, and something a little bitter. The overall fresh and light nature of the wine makes it enjoyable, but it doesn't stick out much from other Chilean wines given the 18 dollar price tag. AC10/9/19http://www.apaltachile.cl/
AcrobataNAEntre CordillerasRapelCabernet s., carmenere, syrahRed87A blend of three different vintages with three different varieties. Cabernet sauvignon, carmenere and syrah. Heavy red fruit aromas with dried plum and forst floor. Oak usage noticable with a hint of pepper and mint.CS10/11/19http://www.apaltachile.cl/
Agustinos2016Gran Terroir La Huella VineyardBio-BioMalbecRed90Nice. Balanced. Dark fruit. Good acidity. No hard edges. Coffee and floral notes.AC12/30/19http://www.agustinos.cl/en
Alas de Parra2020ItataCinsaultRed89Old barrels. Unfiltered. Dark fruit and floral notes. Simple and easy on the palate. Medium-low acid.AC9/10/22https://www.alasdeparra.cl/
Alas de Parra2020ItataCabernet S.Red89They grafted Cinsault onto their Cabernet, so this is the last vintage of their Cabernet. Unfiltered. Old barrels. Red fruit, high acid, lighter Cabernet. Some herbal notes. Some tannic structure for further aging. More typical for the Itata region. 89+AC9/10/22https://www.alasdeparra.cl/
Alchemy Wines2017Parrone Grand Reserve CachapoalMalbecRed90The nose starts off with bright dark purple berry fruit. Later some dried herbal notes come along with some chocolate and a touch of violet. Only medium intensity, but it was constantly evolving, It’s sort of Rhone-like. The palate has juicy blackberry blueberry notes with good acidity, chalky tannins, a little minerality and vanilla. No hard edges. Fairly elegant feel. It’s quite Chilean in style, in that it manages to sit in between more modern Argentinian Malbec and French Cahors while having a bit of the herbal characteristic one associates with Chile. This comes from Almahue in Cachapoal. Everything is done by hand. Native yeasts used. 100% Malbec.AC7/29/20https://www.alchemywines.cl/
Alcohuaz2013RhuElquiBlendRed9311,991 bottles made. Garrigue. Earthy. Savoury. Rhone like nose mixed with Burgundy. Fuller and thicker than the Gru. Touch of spice. AC8/30/19https://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/en/home-eng/
Alcohuaz2015GrusElquiBlendRed9150%Syrah/26%Grenache/14%PetiteSirah/10%PetitVerdot. Rhone like nose. Garrigue. Mint. Fresh dark berry on palate. Eggs vats used, no oak. AC1/22/18https://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/en/home-eng/
Alcohuaz2016GrusElquiBlendRed90Mostly Syrah with Grenache, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah. Minerally and red fruit driven. Only 11,923 bottles made. AC8/30/19https://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/en/home-eng/
AlcohuazN/AGrusElquiBlendRed91Syrah, Garnacha, Malbec, Petite Sirah. Rhone-like, garrigue, red fruit, good acid.AC9/16/17https://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/en/home-eng/
Alcohuaz2018Grus de AlcohazElquiBlendRed86Simple wine. Notes of blueberry, blackberry and red fruit. Hint of oak and spice. Blend of malbec, syrah, grenache, petit sirah.CS3/13/20http://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/
Alcohuaz2016Grus MezclaElquipetit verdot, syrah, grenache, petit sirahRed87Intense aroma. Plum and cherry. Nice structure and well balanced. Acidity is acceptable. Not as refined as the RHU line from this vineyard.CS11/8/19http://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/
Alcohuaz2013RHU MezclaElquiSyrah, Grenache, Petit syrahRed93Obvious red cherry. Structed wine. Dark. Nice tannic structure with notes of pepper and olive.CS11/8/19http://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/
Alcohuaz2022CAPI Fortificado El Cuartel de NunoElquiTouriga NacionalRed18% alcohol. Fortified with Pisco. It’s a nice version of Chilean fortified wine. I don’t find it overly sweet and the 18% alcohol is in check. Some acidity to keep from being too flabby. Not as much oak influence as Calyptra’s Fortified wine.AC3/29/23https://www.vdalcohuaz.cl/en/home-eng/
Alcohuaz2015Pingo PingoElquiCarignanRed93Pingo Pingo is unique in that it comes from the Elqui Valley (most Carignan comes from Maule in Chile) and also because it's Carignan planted at 2,188 meters above sea level, which they say is probably the highest elevation Carignan in the world. This is their first vintage of Pingo Pingo. 100% Cariñena. The wine spends 3 years in concrete eggs and 4 years in bottle. Only 2,193 bottles made. This has the red berry fruit and piercing acidity of good Maule VIGNO, but at 8.5 years old, the acidity is approachable with lemon zest notes. It differs from Maule Carignan in that there’s not as much savory spice and herbs (especially with no time in wood at all), and intead, there’s a lot of savory, stony minerality. Medium-bodied. Lots of intensity on the palate without fatiguing the tongue. AC10/26/23https://vdalcohuaz.cl/es/home/
Alcohuaz2021TococoElquiSyrahRed6,939 bottles made. A high acid, cool climate style Syrah verging on red fruit. Still some tannins to resolve but should be fine with meat and an hour of air. Some spice on the backend. It's a wine that's more old world-sort of Nebbiolo like or a more tannic and spicey Pinot.AC11/25/23https://vdalcohuaz.cl/es/home/
Alhue2020ReservaMaipoPetit VerdotRed91Nice nose, dark fruit but still medium+ acidity, licorice, spice and herbal notes. Moderate tannins. Impressive considering this a completely new wine I've never heard of or tastedAC9/3/21https://vina-alhue.cl/
Alhue2020ReservaMaipoSyrahRed90It's on the fruity side, dark ripe fruit with a touch of spice on the finish. Dark but fresh for Syrah. Some tannins, but quite drinkable with foodAC9/3/21https://vina-alhue.cl/
Alice L’Estrange2020Cracklin RosieItataCinsaultRoseAlice L’Estrange is an Australian expat who has been making wine in Chile since 2015. She employs an all-female team– A fizzy Cinsault rose. Tangy. Refreshing.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/strangegrapes/?hl=en
Alice L’Estrange2019Pipeno PasticheItataMoscatel - CorintoOrangeMoscatel/Corinto (60/40) 8 months with skins. One of the most unique wines I’ve ever had. The nose is a mix of herbs, spices, bushes and flowers. Fresh on the palate. I’m not a huge fan of Orangey wines (whites with a lot of skin contact), but this one forces you to think and takes you somewhere you haven’t been before.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/strangegrapes/?hl=en
Alice L’Estrange2020Frutilla AquiItataPais - MoscatelMixPais/Moscatel (50/50) 20% whole bunch co-fermented. Fresh & juicy. Some noticeable tannic structure.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/strangegrapes/?hl=en
Alice L’Estrange2019La CargadoraItataCinsaultRed– Under flor for 8 months giving it an oxidized style of Cinsault which differes from the fresh fruitier versions of Cinsault you typically get from this region. There’s more alcohol. There’s still good acid, fruit and floral notes but it’s spicier, eathier, softer/rounder on the palate.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/strangegrapes/?hl=en
Almaviva2018EpuMaipoBlendRed92Epu means 2 in the Mapuche language representing the 2nd wine of Almaviva, but also the two cultures and families of winemaking bringing the family of Mouton Rothschild and Concha y Toro together. 50,000 bottles were produced. 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Carmenere, 6% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc. 1 year in used oak barrels. The nose is the best part of this wine at the moment, which starts out with bright ripe fruit (dark and red) with a dried herbal, cigar component and a bit of chocolate. The palate is full-bodied, round with approachable tannins, especially with food, but there’s some aging potential too. Medium acid keeps it fresh. The palate could still be better integrated, but that could happen with a bit more air or aging. 92+AC6/11/22http://www.almavivawinery.com/en/
Alpa (Domaine de Manson)2017CoironinoChoapa CarmenereRed88Comes from the Valle de Choapa around Coquimbo. The owner is from the Jura region in France. Almost Pinot pungency on the nose, medicinal herbs, red fruit. One of the most acidic Carmeneres I've ever had. AC4/14/19http://www.vinosalpa.cl/
Alpa (Domaine de Manson) 2016?Coquimbo, LimariSyrah, CarmenereRed85Candied nose, cough medicine palate. AC11/23/18http://www.vinosalpa.cl/
Alta Cima20176.330 Ensamblaje KLontue CuricoBlendRedFlawed24% Petit Verdot, 31% Cabernet S., 30% Syrah, 3% Merlot, 2% Carmenere. 5,683 bottles made. The owner/winemaker is Klaus Schroder Baasch, who used to work back in the day for San Pedro, Errazuriz and Santa Rita from the 60’s to the 90’s. This is their premium reserve wine, which spends around 14 months in French oak. 40% new, 30% used, and 30% in steel tanks. Dry-farmed on clay-limestone and volcanic soils. Unfiltered. Vines planted in the late 70’s. Unfortunately, this was slightly corked. You could smell it once I popped it and the cork itself stunk. However, the wine had enough fruit to cover it up to make it drinkable with ripe cassis and blueberry, good acidity, soft tannins and some savory notes along with a touch of heat, camphor and oak, but unfortunately the stinky dog and wet cardboard smell creeped in and out, so just tossed the rest. It was only around $12. No Rating. Flawed.AC6/5/20http://altacima.cl/vinos_6330.htm
Alta Cima20196.330 Late HarvestLontue CuricoGewurztraminerDessert92This comes from Klaus Schroder, who used to work for big wineries like San Pedro, Errazuriz and Santa Rita between the 60’s and 90’s. 4,514 half bottles made. This has a pretty nose of peach jam, floral notes, orange, spice and a touch of honey. There’s no indication that they had botrytis on the label, and it’s not obvious in the wine. The palate is thick and sweet but balanced well by the acidity and spice.AC1/16/23http://altacima.cl/es/
Alto Las Gredas2018Gran ReservaCautinChardonnayWhite93This is along the lines of the White Burgundies I just drank at a recent French wine tasting. There’s fresh ripe fruit on the nose with some flinty and bready notes. The palate is long, minerally and citrusy. It’s medium-bodied, but not quite creamy or oily. It does undergo some oak aging, but it’s not overt.AC4/2/22https://www.altolasgredas.cl/
Alto las Gredas2020Gran ReservaCautinChardonnayWhite91I think I prefer the 2018 better, but this has similar notes of flinty, minerally nose and fresh, seamless palate. The 2018 was just more intense and vibrant. However, I probably drank this too cold and by the time it warmed up, the bottle was finished, so it was still plenty good for everybody.AC4/23/22https://www.altolasgredas.cl/
Altos del Itata2018Casa del AltoItataPaisRed 88This includes grapes from estate vines planted in 1551.The color is really light ruby red. I’ve had roses that are darker. The nose is not the most expressive, but it’s earthy with red fruit. The palate is light and fruity with decent acidity. Sort of a tangy fruit punch. As I said, no oak. Low alcohol (less than 12%) and low tannins. AC3/21/22http://www.altosdelitata.cl/
Altos del Itata20181556 ReservaItataCabernet S.Red89Transparent, light color. Nose of red and black cassis, tobacco, a bit of chocolate. Doesn’t feel like there’s much oak influence. Probably used oak if at all. The palate is medium-bodied and soft for a Cabernet Sauvignon. Only 12% alcohol. Plenty of acid. Tastes more like Chilean Carignan with its red fruit, acidic profile due to the cooler climate, low-intervention winemaking and minimal to no oak. An every day, food-friendly Cabernet. AC6/3/22http://www.altosdelitata.cl/
Alyan2018Family AmbassadorChileCarmenereRed90I think most of the grapes are sourced from Colchagua although the winery is located in Pirque, Maipo and the label doesn’t specify the valley as wine of Chile. The nose is rather typical of Chilean Carmenere but the pyrazine notes are more of a baked pepper and smoked paprika note rather than green bell pepper, which some can have. There’s some mocha spice from the oak and dark fruit. It spends 12 months in French oak barrels. The palate is actually more red-fruited and high in acid for a Carmenere. Medium-body. Round finish with more spices. Soft tannins. I like the freshness of the wines as most Carmenere are darker and lower in acid.The palate starts to open with more air and food. More fruit emerges. The palate outshines the nose. 90AC7/6/24https://www.alyanwines.com/
Ana Maria Cumsille2020Adrian Torres Aguila ItataPaisRed89This comes from the winemaker at Vina Cucha Cucha. 200 year old vines. 30% stems fermented in tinaja. 8 months in old barrels. Nose starts of rather closed but fruit and spice emerge. Light style but there’s some structure. No hard edges. Purple fruit, medium acid. Herbal spice. Notes of clay perhaps from the tinajas. Just opened so could open up more. 89+AC10/6/21https://www.instagram.com/amcumsille/?hl=en
Anakena2014Ona Premium Selection Andes BlendCachapoalCabernet S., Carmenere, SyrahRed89Rounded, tannin, chocolate and spice. Lasting finish.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015Ona Premium Selection Coastal BlendCasablancaSyrahRed87Black pepper spice, raspberry, blueberry. CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2014Central ValleyChardonnayWhite88Well rounded with tropical notes. Medium bodied and a nice finish.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015Central ValleySauvignon BlancWhite88Grapefruit, grass, tropical notes. Citrus with a pineapple finish.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015RapelCabernet S.Red87Medium bodied. Fresh and fruity. Blackberry and cherry notes.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015Tama Vineyards SelectionRapelCabernet S.Red88Slightly bolder. More robust profile. Cassis and a hint of chocolate.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015RapelCarmenereRed86Green bell pepper aroma. Medium bodied and fruity. Not overly complex but a good patio wine with friends.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Anakena2015Tama Vineyards SelectionRapelCarmenereRed87Green bell pepper aroma. Again with the medium body but more complex flavor provile with notes of vanilla.CS4/15/16https://www.facebook.com/anakenawineschile
Andes Plateau2016700MaipoBlendRed90Blend of Cabernet S., Syrah, Carignan, and Cab franc. Elegant. Cool fruit. Green herbal notes, spice, something bitter. AC8/30/19http://andesplateau.cl/home-english/
Andes Plateau2018Cota 500MaipoCabernet S.Red88Green pepper, herbal, fairly fresh.AC8/30/19http://andesplateau.cl/home-english/
Andes Plateau2018Cota 500MaipoCabernet s.Red87A lot of oak. Chocolate and a wiff of tobacco. Dark fruit, blackberry, cassis, blueberry. Wiff of eucalyptus.CS11/8/19http://andesplateau.cl/home-english/
Andes Plateau2016700 High AltitudeMaipoCabernet s., Cabernet franc, merlotRed88Intense. A lot of oak here. Vanilla, wood, note of chocolate. Dark fruit, think concentrated blackberry and cassis.CS11/8/19http://andesplateau.cl/home-english/
Antiyal2016Pura FeMaipoGrenache, SyrahRed88Dark berry fruit, touch of heat. Not quite together at the moment. AC8/30/19https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2016MaipoBlendRed92Blend of Cab S., Carmenere and Syrah. Drinks super easy. The mouthfeel is great. Seamless. It is on the fruity modern side, but balanced, fresh, elegant, and restrained. Spends 18 months in French oak. Biodynamic.This retails for 60 dollars in Chile.AC11/25/18https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2016MaipoBlendRed92Some green pepper but also floral on the nose. Nice ripe but delicate red fruit. Elegant style.AC9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2016EscorialMaipoCarmenereRed91Aged in egg vats. No oak at all. Bright. Fresh. Earthy and floral. Red fruit. AC11/25/18https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2017EscorialMaipoCarmenereRed91Reminds me more of a good Cabernet Franc. Floral and ripe red fruit. AC9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2016Pura FeMaipoGrenache, SyrahRed90Big modern ripe style, but still red fruit driven.AC11/25/18https://www.antiyal.com/inicio?lang=en
Antiyal2018Vinos del Arte LunaticoMaipoCarmenereRed91Project featuring the art of Edwin Rojas and 3 wines from 3 top Chilean winemakers. This is from Alvaro Espinoza of Antiyal. 80% Carmenere, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah from 800m vineyards at the foothills of the Andes. It has Antiyal’s style. They tend to make Carmenere in a red fruit, low oak or unoaked, fresh elegant style. It’s aged in concrete eggs and some French oak for 12 months, but the oak feels minimal or neutral. The nose is about ripe red fruit, white pepper and some savory herbal spice in the background. The palate is elegant and silky with more red fruit and good acidity. No hard edges. It’s one of my favorite styles of Carmenere in Chile. It features the fruit of Carmenere in a fresh way without the heavy influence of oak while still keeping ripe and moderating the pyrazine notes to the background.AC8/31/22https://antiyal.com/
Antiyal2016RedMaipoCabernet s., petit verdot, carmenere, syrahRed92Obvious raspberry aromas. On the palate has a nutty characteristic, pepper. Long finish. Good acidity.CS9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2016KuyenMaipoCabernet s., petit verdot, carmenere, syrahRed89High acid, earthy, notes of leather. Oak barrel notes, cassis, dark fruit.CS9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2017Viñedo EscorialMaipoCarmenereRed93Mullberry notes and bitter chocolate. Concrete egg fermentation. CS9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/
AntiyalNVMedia Noche Extra BrutMaipoChardonnay, pinot noirSparkling89Traditional method sparkling extra brut. Nice small bubbles in all parts of the glass. Minerality and crushed rocks.CS9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2016Pura FeMaipoGarnacha, syrahRed9070% garnacha, 30% syrah. Dark garnet red color. Notes of crushed gravel and tomate leaf. Green bell pepper and wet earth.CS9/1/19https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2020Viñedo EscorialMaipoCarmenereRed92Aged 12 months in concrete egg. Bright red fruit nose with dried herbal, tobacco notes. Touch of mint but not as obviously Chilean as some. Full, rich dark red fruit on the palate up front. Savory and fresh on the backend with some peppery notes. Elegant feel with silky tannins. Alcohol is a little too present without food. Darker, riper and more alcohol than I remember from previous vintages but it's more powerful. Still more red fruit and fresh than your average Carmenere, but I wouldn’t want to see it pushed anymore towards a modern style. It's more unique this way as a red fruited, unoaked, higher-end Carmenere. It should continue to evolve. This sells for around 60k pesos in Chile. 92+AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2018MaipoBlendRed94This and the Escorial Carmenere are their top wines. Both are around 60k pesos in Chile. 45% Carmenere, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah. This reminds me of high-quality Bordeaux. First of all, it's more open than the Escorial. Second, it absorbs the oak the best out of all the oaked wines in the lineup despite spending the most time in oak (18 months) and having some new oak (33%).There are savory herbal, tomato leaf notes on the nose which are fairly common for Chilean Cab or Carmenere. It holds the alcoholic better than the Escorial too. However, it's 2 years older, so it should be better integrated. 2018 was also the better vintage. Red and dark fruit Elegant and seamless. Soft tannins. Medium+ acid. Well-structured. Some mintiness. Similar style to the Escorial but with oak and a bit more age although it could evolve and improve some more. 94+AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2019KuyenMaipoBlendRed90Blend of Syrah, Cabernet S., Carmenere, and Petit Verdot. 12 months in French oak. Darkest of all the wines in their lineup. Darker fruit. Full, round with ripe but present and youthful tannins. Lower acid than the others, but still medium acid. Chocolate, leather and dark fruit. Could still integrate and soften more. This sells for 30k pesos in Chile. 90+AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2021Pure FeMaipoGarnacha, syrahRed8670% Garnacha 30% Syrah. 10 months in French oak. Shy nose. Mild oak. Red fruit with high acid on the palate. Medium-bodied. Chalky tannins. Some savory notes on the backend. At the moment, it needs food with its high-acid. One expects more ripe fruit from Garnacha but this one is austere and tangy. AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2022Pure FeMaipoCabernet S.Red8910 months in oak. The best of the Pura Fe line today. More integrated oak. More tannic but more fruit to go along with the acidic structure. At the same time, I would still wait longer or give it a decant for the tannins to soften more. 89+AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antiyal2022Pure FeMaipoCarmenereRed88Carmenere 12 months in French oak. Nose of mild oak and dried herbal notes. Medium-bodied. Soft feel but lingering tannins that should be fine with food. Darker fruit than the Escorial but still medium+ acid, higher acid than average Chilean Carmenere. Oak notes. Savory notes. Also more of a food wine. Could use a bit a less oak and a bit more fruit.AC6/12/24https://www.antiyal.com/
Antumapinos2022Ricardo LowickEl Monte MaipoMalbecRed90Ricardo Gonzalez Lowick has experience around the world and with Concha y Toro and Emiliana in Chile. He founded Antumapinos Wines with 2 other classmates from the University of Chile in 2019. He has particular interest using less-common varieties in Chile like Marselan, Touriga Nacional and Tempranillo and is the first to make a varietal Arinarnoa in Chile. There are 2 hectares of this grape in Chile while it’s more common in Uruguay and is now allowed as an official grape in Bordeaux. This Malbec comes from El Monte in Maipo, which is not a typical valley to find varietal Malbec. I don’t know anything about the winemaking other than it's unfiltered. There must be some amount of oak aging too based on my tasting notes. 900 bottles made. The color is three quarters opaque. The nose features dark purple fruit with lots of milk chocolatey notes and later a touch of floral notes. The palate starts like the nose but the midpalate has a sour cherry component giving it more acidity than most South American Malbec. It finishes with some savory herbs and chocolate. Medium-bodied. Soft round tannins, so no problem drinking it now. Given the acidity and relative restraint in terms of extraction, it makes the wine more versatile with lighter foods.AC4/23/24https://www.instagram.com/antumapinoswines/?hl=en
Antumapinos2022Ricardo LowickSan Fernando ColchaguaArinarnoaRed93Dark practically opaque color. Ripe dark fruit on the nose and palate with spice, some toasty chocolate. Medium to full body. Smooth tannins. Medium+ acid and long savory finish. I like this a lot better than his Malbec. More intense and less oak. Only my second time trying a monovarietal version of this grape. The other was from Uruguay. This is the only one in Chile. Still not as tannic as you'd think being a cross between Cabernet and Tannat.AC8/8/24https://www.instagram.com/antumapinoswines/?hl=en
Apaltagua2018Coleccion San AntonioBlendWhite922570 bottles made; 50% Marsanne – 45% Roussanne – 5% Sauvignon Gris (although in the past, I think they used to use Viognier instead of Sauvignon Gris). The vineyard is located 12 km from the Pacific. The label says the Marsanne and Roussane were fermented in concrete while the Sauvignon Gris in new oak. You immediately get the oak on the nose and I think some malolactic. Spice. Dried herbal notes and salinity with some underlying ripe stone fruit. On the palate, the fruit dominates more with good freshness and some oak spice. Round. Medium-bodied. Comes off as more of high-quality new world Chardonnay as opposed to typically unoaked Sauvignon Blanc of Chile.AC4/14/23http://www.apaltagua.com/
Aquitania2015LazuliMaipoCabernet S.Red92This is their flagship wine that they only produce in good years. Definitely a step above your average Chilean Cab. High tone ripe cassis, spice, herbs menthol. Lots of packed potential, but tight at the moment. Still smooth elegant given the power. No Chilean green notes. A partnership of Bruno Prats, former manager at Cos D'estournel, the late Paul Pontallier of Chateau Margaux, Ghislain Montgolfier formerly of Bollinger, and Chilean oenologist Felipe de Solminihac. 92+AC1/27/18https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2015ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red88Rather modern. Reticent nose. Dark fruit. Touch floral. Silky texture, round, fruity but rather oaky.AC4/27/18https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2015ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red88Dark fruit. Soft and easy. Smoky oak notes. Lacked acidity. AC2/25/19https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2015LazuliMaipoCabernet S.Red93This cuvee is 100% Cabernet and only made in good years. Spends 16 months in French oak, 30% new. About 735 cases made. 30 minute decant. This is a classically styled Cabernet. Nose starts off with a flash of ripe red cassis and cherries, but it is overtaken with savory herbal notes, tobacco and cedar. The palate is similar with red cherry, good acidity, tobacco, spices of cinnamon and pepper. Definitely a step up in intensity overall from an average Maipo Cabernet, but still feels light and smooth on the palate with no hard edges other than the spicy peppery notes which give it a little kick. True to its name, it manages to keep some Maipo characteristics while having aspects of a wine from the Medoc, Bordeaux. I had this almost 3 years ago at the vineyard, and it was much more primary, tight, tannic with a bit of heat. Now it has softened up and it’s showing a lot more notes from the oak. It can still improve with a little more age and gain some tertiary notes. 93+AC11/14/20https://aquitania.cl/
Aquitania2012Sol de SolMallecoChardonnayWhite90Some oak treatment, so some body and creaminess. Still fresh.AC1/27/18https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2012Sol de SolMallecoPinot NoirRed87A bit flat, oaky. Earth, spice and vanilla. Red fruit.AC1/27/18https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2012Sol de SolMallecoSauvignon BlancWhite90Sees some oak. Solid. Crisp. A little more complex, but I don't think it's much better than Sauvignon Blancs from Casablanca for less than half the price. AC1/27/18https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2019Sol de SolMallecoSauvignon BlancWhite89Savory green pepper, medium acid. Salinic minerality. Austere fruit.AC10/2/21https://aquitania.cl/en
Aquitania2017LazuliMaipoCabernet S.Red90Sweet oak, vanilla on the nose. Good acidity and tannic structure with red and dark fruit and spice. Rather closed and awkward at the moment. Needs time. More red fruited and acidic than I thought it would be given the warm vintage. 90+AC10/2/21https://aquitania.cl/en
Arboleda2016AconcaguaCarmenereRed91Fuller and silkier than your average Carmenere. Less of the green notes. Some savoury oak notes. Ripe red and dark fruit. Medium-low acid, but doesn't lack freshness. AC8/9/19https://arboledawines.com/en/
Arboleda2017AconcaguaPinot NoirRed91Garrigue. Earth. Red berry fruit. Good acid. Orange peel. No hard edges. AC12/27/18http://arboledawines.com/en/
Arboleda2017Aconcagua CostaPinot NoirRed92Nose of dirt, minerality and very floral. Palate is red fruit driven, round, silky and also floral. Sort of like a Chambolle Musigny. Some tar and caramel with time making me think of Piedmont nebbiolo. This is owned by Errazuriz. Can be found for around 14 dollars. An excellent deal. AC8/21/18https://arboledawines.com/en/
Arboleda2021AconcaguaChardonnayWhite9020% new oak. Smoky, spicy nose. Medium-bodied white. Still plenty of freshness on the palate with the white fruit.AC6/8/22https://arboledawines.com/
Arboleda2015AconcaguaChardonnayWhite89Oak barrel fermentaion with wild yeasts. 10 month ageing.CS8/20/16http://arboledawines.com/en/
Arboleda2017AconcaguaChardonnayWhite87Oaky aroma, butter, vanilla. Green apple and pear for the palate. Citrus finish.CS10/14/19http://arboledawines.com/en/
Arcana2020ItataSemillonWhite92Only slightly cloudy but rather clear light golden color. The nose is shy and subtle but shows some white fruit, touch of citrus, floral and wax notes. The palate is medium-bodied with upfront ripe white fruit and honey but a salinic finish where the acidity spikes up. I like this style of Semillon. Many producers in Chile make a rustic, traditional winemaking slightly sweet version or do skin-contact, but this is well balanced. It doesn't have the oak of Bordeaux versions nor the high acid austerity while young Hunter Valley version. It's different from those and what I think should be the style of Semillon in Chile going forward.AC8/8/24https://arcanavinos.cl/
Aresti2015TrisquelColchaguaBlendRed89Herbaceous nose, round soft tannins, red fruit. Easy drinking. AC2/25/19https://arestichile.cl/
Aresti2016Bellavista ReservaCuricoCabernet S.Red89Cool red fruit. Herbal. No hard edges. Lighter compared to Cabs from Maipo or the Rapel Valley. AC3/4/18https://arestichile.cl/
Aresti2017Trisquel AltitudCuricoMerlotRed89Some Chilean greenpepper notes, coffee. Fresh, light and easy. Some minerality. AC4/14/19https://arestichile.cl/
Aristos2012Baron d'AChileCabernet blendRed93Aristos is a project that started in 2003 with Chilean terroir expert Pedro Parra, Burgundy’s Liger-Belair and French-Chliean winemaker Francois Massoc. Most of it is Cabernet Sauvignon from Cachapoal with some Malbec from Bio-Bio and a bit of Carmenere from Maule. It spent 24 months in French oak (33% new, 33% 2nd use, & 33% 3rd use). Only 333 cases are made, so it’s as rare as Liger-Belair’s La Romanée but costs about 100 times less.
Still rather youthful appearance at around 9 years old. The nose starts off with subtle but pretty, bright dark and red berry fruits. But it opens up and then becomes unmistakably Chilean with herbal, tomato leaf notes. After an hour, just a touch of mushroomy tertiary notes came although the general experience was still rather primary. The palate sticks out for its elegance. It’s what you’d expect from a Burgundy winemaker making Bordeaux blends. It’s just light and seamless with lovely acidity, soft tannins, a bit of menthol and licorice. Probably deserves a few more years to peak drinking or a couple hours decanting. 93+
AC1/31/21https://pedroparrachile.wordpress.com/aristos/
ArmiditaPajarete Late HarvestHuasco, AtacamaMoscatelDessert
87Nice nose, but a bit rough and disjointed overall on the palate. Lacks elegance of a good Sauternes. AC8/30/19https://www.facebook.com/pg/vina.armidita/posts/
Arminda2015CrianzaMaipoTempranilloRed86Fruit forward, some tanning, cherry and a hint of strawberry notes.CS2/17/20https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
Aromo2019DogmaMauleChardonnayWhite90Different style than most (in the boutique wine circle) in that there’s a definite influence of oak and malolactic on the flavor profile. Tropical, ripe fruit. Some saltly butteriness on the palate. Some spice. At the same time, it keeps good acidity.AC10/1/22http://www.elaromo.cl/
Aromo2020Dogma Premium BlendMauleBlendRed8960% Tempranillo, 40% Cabernet S. – savory, oak influenced wine overall. Tannic. Dark fruit, but not a lot showing. 6 months in French and American oak. 30% new.AC10/1/22http://www.elaromo.cl/
AromoNVArtemisa Late HarvestItataMoscatelDessert89Moscatel de Alejandria – white floral nose, but a bit closed. Ripe, sweet pineapple, apricot fruit with decent acid.AC10/1/22http://www.elaromo.cl/
Aromo2019DogmaMauleCabernet S. + SyrahRed89Lots of coffee with some pyrazine notes. Palate also on the herbal and oaky side. Not as tannic as the Tempranillo-Cab blend.AC10/1/22http://www.elaromo.cl/
Aromo?Barrel SelectionMauleBlendRed9080% Cabernet S., 15% Carmenere, 5% Petit Verdot. Freshest of the reds, but plenty of tannins. Touch floral. Fruitier overall than the other reds.AC10/1/22http://www.elaromo.cl/
Arte Sano2018CachapoalCarmenereRed90At first you get some pyrazine herbal notes in a savoury tomato leaf form but it soon becomes mostly about chocolate. The palate has a smooth texture with red plumy fruit with a savoury spicy side. Medium+ acid. Medium bodied. There's a bit of heat from the 14.2% alcohol. Overall it’s a ripe chocolatey crowd pleaser. It’s not obviously Carmenere or Chilean. At the same time, it's still not a full-throttle modern wine. It's like a 6 or 7 on the scale of being super modern. Bottom line, it's different much like the unique bottle shape, which is supposed to be like a decanter to help the sediments settle on one side.AC3/18/21Carmenere@hotmail.de
Artisau2018Don Lalo Bio-Bio, YumbelPaisRed88Earthy rustic natural wine character, bright red fruit palate. AC9/1/19N/A
Artisau2018ReservaBio-BioChardonnayWhite88A lot of citrus, tropical fruits here. Creamy with higher than expected acidity. Vanilla and green apple.CS9/1/19
Artisau2018Don LaloBio-BioPaísRed87Solid and well rounded país. Red fruits, light in texture, easy drinker.CS9/1/19
Atacalco2018CarabeCasablancaPinot GrisOrange91This producer intentionally calls this amber wine as opposed to orange wine. This is because they use Italian clay amphore similar to Georgian amber wine traditions using qvevri and traditional Chilean tinajas. This is a project of Morande winemaker Ricardo Baettig and Morande export manager Carlos Spoerer. They also have an Itata version with Semillon and Moscatel, but this one from Casablanca is 100% Pinot Gris. Native yeasts. 4+ months skin contact. Bright orange color with a bit of pink. The nose is mostly about minerality with the vegetal side of skin contact wines playing a minor role. Similarly on the palate, it’s about minerality and acidity with the spicy, bitter vegetal side in the background although it is fuller than a typical Pinot Gris. It’s a wine that should please those that don’t typically like orange wines since there are less typical orange wine notes. It means it’s less complex than some, but if you like crisp, minerally whites with a little more body and a touch of je ne sais quoi, then you’ll like this.AC5/24/22https://www.instagram.com/vinicola_atacalco/
Atacalco2021PostColchaguaTempranilloRed90Atacalco is a project of Morande winemaker Ricardo Baettig and Morande export manager Carlos Spoerer. It arose because they wanted to make skin-contact whites similar to Northern Italy using terracotta amphora from Italy. This is their Carabe line from Casablanca and Itata. However, recently they’ve started a Post line with reds: one with Pais and the other Tempranillo, also vinified and kept in amphora. 10 year old vines. 550 bottles made. Fermented and aged in amphora. The nose is only medium-low intensity and more on the savory and earthy side than fruit. I’m guessing native yeasts. The palate is medium-bodied with round but present tannins and tart red fruit. Overall, there’s more verve and edge on the palate than the nose. I don’t often drink unoaked Tempranillo. Occasionally, you can find Rioja Joven in Spain, which is unoaked Rioja with probably mostly Tempranillo. The few I have had have been fruity and simple. This one is more savory and tart than ripe and fruity. AC11/23/24https://www.instagram.com/vinicola_atacalco/
AtomoNV1st EditionMultipleRed BlendRed93This is a project of Lebanese winemaker Malik-El Khoury and Chilean sommelier Alejandra Ried. It's a blend of 3 vintages (2018, 2019, 2020), 4 Valleys (Cachapoal, Colchagua, Maule & Itata) taken from 26 barrels purchased from 4 different Chilean producers. 3 of them are listed on the bottle: Gillmore, PS Garcia & Alchemy. The final blend was 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carmenere, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. This might be the most elegant Bordeaux varietal Chilean wine I’ve tasted, which is extraordinary given the young age. It has the texture and weightlessness you get from well-aged classified growth Bordeaux and it becomes even creamier and silkier with more time in the glass. If this were a meat, it’d be a melt in your mouth filet mignon. You don’t feel the 14.3% alcohol at all. The tannins are seamless. There’s medium acid just to give it enough freshness. You don’t get tired of drinking it after one glass like the big blockbuster wines. It takes a while to open up and show its complexity. You get red and dark berry fruit with a touch of plum. It also remains quite Chilean with an herbal, savory and smoky umami side. There’s a touch of mint and other spices along with a bit of vanilla and chocolate, but the oak is secondary as should it be. It still has room to gain more complexity. 93+AC3/17/21https://www.instagram.com/atomo.wine/
AtomoNV1st EditionMultipleRed BlendRed92Almost 3 years since I last tasted this. Then it was about elegance and silky feel, but today it's about intense, juicy berry fruit with mild spice and soy notes. There's more acidity too. Still primary. It's mostly from the 2019 vintage, so it's roughly 4.5 years old. It's lost some of its elegance but in a few years, it might all come together with the same intensity as now and seamless, silky feel as before.AC12/24/23https://www.instagram.com/atomo.wine/
Attilio & Mochi2018CasablancaCabernet FrancRed90Destemmed. Cold-soaked 5-days. About a year in new and used oak. Smokier, spicier nose palate. Get the oak more than the previous two wines. Good acidity. Medium-bodied. Nice mouthfeel. Some menthol. Tobacco. Overall, this is a savory wine more than fruity. Better with food for most drinkers.AC5/28/22https://www.attiliomochi.com/
Attilio y Mochi2019CasablancaGrenacheRedRipe purple fruits, violets, dried herbs, a little coffee and licorice while remaining balanced, light and soft in feel with medium acid.AC9/17/21https://www.attiliomochi.com/
Attilio y Mochi2021CasablancaRoussanneWhiteSample from tank. Fresh with white flowers and salinic mineralityAC9/17/21https://www.attiliomochi.com/
Attilio y Mochi2022TunquenCasablancaViognierWhite90Floral, white peach. Medium-low acid, but still lively. Nice pleasant aperitif wine. Light bodied Viognier.AC11/10/23https://www.attiliomochi.com/
Attilio y Mochi2021SucreCasablancaBlendRed90Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Grenache blend. Floral, fruity. Medium-bodied. Medium-low acid but still juicy. Some tannins, but should be fine with food.AC11/10/23https://www.attiliomochi.com/
Ayllu2020Toconao, AtacamaBlendRed87Syrah 46%, Cot (Malbec) 41%, País 10%, Petit Verdot 2%, Cabernet Sauvignon 1%. 2,400 meters altitude. 365 days of sunlight. Picked at night under moonlight. 1st edition as a blend. Normally this is a wine you can only find around San Pedro de Atacama where Toconao is located, but perhaps because of the pandemic, they’ve begun exporting to Santiago and sell wines through their website. Dark almost completely opaque color. Not the strongest nose, but it’s interesting: dark ripe and dried fruit but with a streak of red fruit too. There’s smoky, savory olive and meaty notes. The palate is disjointed at first with some heat and a shallow mid-palate, but it gets more integrated and smoother with air showing dark fruit and pepper but with surprisingly plenty of acidity too. Soft tannins. Right now the Syrah is dominating. Given how it’s improved a few points over the past hour, maybe there’s more to come. Pleasant enough now though to enjoy with some local Alpaca meat in Atacama. 87+AC10/16/21https://store.ayllu.wine/en
Aynco 2017FurtivoBio-BioPais, CinsaultRed89Animal and herbaceous. Dark red fruit. AC4/14/19http://www.aynco.cl/
Aynco 2017AnkataMallecoCabernet S.Red89Perhaps the most red fruited and acidic Cabernet S. I've ever had. Tastes like a Carignan from Maule. AC4/14/19http://www.aynco.cl/
Aynco 2017SaviaMallecoPinot NoirRed90Natural wine. No sulfites. Very high acid. Floral nose. Fresh red fruit, some minerality. Some tannic structure. AC4/14/19http://www.aynco.cl/
AzurNVBrutLimariBlendSparkling91One of the most popular sparkling wines in Chile. From Italian producers who work with a producer in Italy who also makes sparkling wine in Lombardy. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Fine bubbles. Fresh with plenty of acidity. Dry, but fruitier and a bit sweeter than the Tabali Tatie Espumante, which is already a bit fruitier than most champagne, but it’s still nowhere near your average Chilean espumante which is often too sweet. There’s good minerality with a bit of spice, but only a bit of bready notes, which the Tatie has more of.AC12/24/21https://azur.cl/en/
Baettig2019Los ParientesMallecoPinot NoirRed92Vinos Baettig is a partnership of Errazuriz winemaker Francisco Baettig (Sena, Chadwick, Kai, Las Pizarras, La Cumbre, etc.) and Carlos de Carlos, who currently works for Paul Hobbs. Hand harvested. Dry-farmed. Volanic and clay soil. Native yeasts used. 11 months in French oak, 18% new. 830 cases made. This is the second vintage made of this cuvee “Los Parientes.” Darker than most Chilean Pinot. More purple than red. The nose is also riper and darker than most with some earth and herbal notes. Violet. The palate features dark berry fruit; frutier and creamier than most. But there’s some acidic and tannic grip in the back end to give it structure. Perhaps the extra fruitiness comes from the 7% whole cluster fermentation. It’s strange that this is darker and riper even though it comes from the cooler south in Traiguen, Malleco. AC12/26/20https://vinosbaettig.cl/
Baron Knyphausen2019Las VenterasAconcaguaCarmenere SyrahRed90Dark, almost opaque but edges show some age. Has some pyrazine and dark fruit on the nose. The palate is medium+ body with medium acid. Coffee. Dark and red fruit. Could be Cab Franc, Carmenere or Cabernet Sauvignon. Feels Chilean. Probably too much acid versus most Chilean Carmenere. Mild oak.AC10/26/24https://baronknyphausen.cl/
Barrere2016Acabado. Lote 161PaineCabernet S.Red84Light bodied. Very light. Overpowering oak and black fruit. $4.000 CLP. Perfect for groups or a second bottle. CS5/14/20http://www.barrerechile.cl/
Barricas de Cauquenes2021MalhenCauquenesViognierWhite8990% Stainless steel, 10% used oak barrels. Not much nose. A touch herbal. Fresh palate. Medium-bodied. A little fizzy.AC9/10/22https://www.barricasdecauquenes.cl/home/
Barricas de Cauquenes2020Gran ReservaCauquenesSyrahRed89Lighter, softer floral Syrah. Touch of savory meaty notes. Med-low acid. Darker on the palate with savory back-end. Touch of heat. 50% 2nd use and 50% single use barrels.AC9/10/22https://www.barricasdecauquenes.cl/home/
Barricas de Cauquenes2021ReservaMauleViognierWhite89Shy nose, a bit floral. Nice palate with ripe fruit. Lighter-bodied given the variety, but more acidity than most Viognier.AC4/22/23https://www.barricasdecauquenes.cl/
Barricas de Cauquenes2021Gran ReservaMauleSyrahRed9018 months in used oak. Fresher style of Syrah. Spice. Dark fruit. Mediume bodied. Moderate tannins.AC4/22/23https://www.barricasdecauquenes.cl/
Beto FernandezPipenoItataPais BlendRedMostly Pais with some Cinsault, Aramon, and San Francisco. Fruity. Tangy. A little herbaceous. Natural wine.AC11/6/21https://instagram.com/betosommelier?utm_medium=copy_link
Beto FernandezItataCinsaultRedTangy. A touch fizzy. Rather tannic for a Cinsault. Dark and red fruits.AC11/6/21https://instagram.com/betosommelier?utm_medium=copy_link
Bewines Massoc Freres2016El Macanudo PremiumItataPaisRed90Spent 2 years in new and old barrels. Nice red fruit, touch of spice. Touch of heat. Big and thick compared to most Pais, but still not a full-bodied wine.AC4/14/19http://www.massocfreres.com/en/index.html
Bisogno2013MauleBlendRed89Tannic. Dark fruit. Plum. Nice nose. AC11/25/18http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2013MauleBlendRed90Nice acidity. Savoury. Balsamic. Herbal. Italian like. AC9/1/19http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2016MaulePais, CarignanRed89Fruity wine. Fresh. AC11/25/18http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2016MauleRiesling, Pinot GrigioWhite89Floral. Apple/PeachAC11/25/18http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2016El PerlaMaule, CauquenesPais, CarignanRed86Dark red fruit. Simple. Tight nose.AC9/1/19http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2016MauleCaignan, PaísRed8840% carignon, 60% país. Lighter drinker. Aromas of blueberry and plum, dark fruit. Slightly herbal, oregano.CS9/1/19http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2017ProaMaulePinot GrigioWhite94Again, underrated wine from Bisogno. Aromatic aromas, tropical notes. Medium acidity, fresh texture. Very floral wine.CS9/1/19http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisogno2016MauleSemillonWhite94Underrated wine. Nice alternative to sauvignon blanc. Balanced, herbal, cut hay. Wiff of honey and citrus fruits. Balanced.CS9/1/19http://www.bisognowines.com/2014/?page_id=16
Bisquertt 2018Joya Gran ReservaColchaguaMerlotRed89. The nose has ripe bright dark and red berry fruit with sweet tobacco and baking spice. Juicy palate. It’s more acidic than most New World Merlot, almost citric. More of the red and dark berry fruit. Mid-palate is lacking a bit. Slightly bitter finish with a touch of minerality and vanilla. Soft tannins. Medium bodied. Overall, it’s more classical in style for a New World Merlot. It’s not a dark ripe fruity but sometimes flabby modern Merlot. At the same time, it doesn’t quite have the same elegance and silkiness Right Bank Merlots tend to have, which use more oak. Only 25% of the wine sees oak, and it’s only 3rd and 4th used oak. A versatile food wine that would be fine with lighter dishes/white meat as well.AC8/16/20http://www.bisquertt.cl/en/
Bluwines2014BluhandsMauleCarignanRed92This is a dead ringer for a nice Tuscan sangiovese. There’s a lot of dry herbs, balsamic notes, and a bit of earth on the nose with sour cherry on the palate and also a savory streak on the back end. Chilean Carignans tend to be better with a little age when the acid calms down some and some of the Maule earthiness integrates, so despite the acidity it was still rather round and easy drinking at 6 years of age. It’s a great food wine with the acid and salinity playing together with just enough red fruit.AC6/27/20http://www.bluwines.com/es/index.html
Bocaseca2021ColchaguaBlendWhite90floral, natural. along the lines of white pipeño but less rustic. Savory palate, medium acid, ripe white fruit. 70% SB. 30% Semillon. A bit of time with skins so some oxididative notes. Former winemaker of Montes.AC11/19/23https://www.instagram.com/bocasecawines/?hl=en
Botalcura2014El Delirio ReservaMauleSyrah-NebbioloRed8660%Syrah, 40%Nebbiolo. Nose sort of Pinot like. Earthy and floral. Dark and savoury. Palate light in texture, but lacking punch. Not much fruit or acidity. Only 6 dollars though to try an odd pairing. AC9/3/18https://www.facebook.com/botalcurawinery/
Botalcura2014El Delirio ReservaMauleSyrah, NebbioloRed8960% Syrah, 40% Nebbiolo. Well structured and powerful. Nice balanced acidity with notes of leather, tar, oak and chocolate.CS10/8/19https://www.facebook.com/botalcurawinery/
Botalcura2017El Delirio ReservaMauleSyrah, NebbioloRed8560% Syrah, 40% Nebbiolo. Less structured than previous vintages with lighter tannins and overall boldness. Dry red wine with medium acidity.CS2/23/20https://www.facebook.com/botalcurawinery/
Botalcura2017El DelirioMauleSyrah, nebbioloRed88Was seeking more power. Lighter in body than expected. Oak, tobacco, pepper, leather notes. CS2/23/20https://www.facebook.com/botalcurawinery/
Bouchon2021SalvajeMaulePaisRed90This comes from Pais vines that grow wild up and around trees, so that it requires ladders to reach the grapes. Fermented in clay amphorae. Unfiltered. There's a slight earthy, rustic side to the nose but overall it's a floral and fruity wine that's easy to drink. Round. Medium-low in acid, but still stays fresh in its light, fruity profileAC11/5/22https://bouchonfamilywines.com/
Bouchon2020ViejoMaulePaisRed89100 year old dry-farmed vines. Hand-harvested. Traditional methods used like zaranda mats to destem and press the grapes. Native yeasts. The nose is expressive with fruity and floral notes. The palate is light and fairly simple though. Overall, a Pais that leans towards Beaujolais in style. Feels like they must add some sulfur because it’s less rustic and funky than some traditionally made Pais from Chile. AC11/29/22https://bouchonfamilywines.com/
Bowines2017FilloMauleTempranilloRed89No oak used at all. Pretty nose of ripe red and dark fruit with some herbs, shrubs and spice. Verges on floral. However, the palate is rather austere in terms of fruit. Although there are no hard edges, it’s mostly spice and licorice with medium-low acid. Medium-bodied.AC5/22/21https://www.bowines.cl/en/home/
Bowines2016CaraeMauleCarignanRed88Hints of plum and smoke. Slightly green and well balanced acidity. CS4/26/20https://www.bowines.cl/
Brio Wine2021SaviaMallecoPinot NoirRed90100% natural without sulfites added. Shy cherry, floral nose. A bit cold so should open up. Medium-light body. The palate has nice red cherry fruit and medium+ acid with savory herbal notes on the backend. Some tannic structure. Clean and not obviously natural wine except a bit of natural yeast note I sometimes associate with low-intervention wine. 90+
AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/brio_wine/
BrisAndes2015CasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite90Tropical fruit with zesty acidity. Grassy at a great price point for quality.CS6/20/16https://lafite.vin.co/1868G1FWS1
BrisAndes2014ColchaguaCabernet S.Red90$10 value. Excellent for the price. Cassis, fruit, chocolate. Plum and vanilla.CS6/20/16https://lafite.vin.co/1868G1FWS1
Buena Esperanza2020Huasco, AtacamaPinot NoirRed91Light transparent color–I immediately thought this is not going to be another Syrah-like Pinot. Nose of bright cherry fruit and minerality. The palate also has plenty of juicy, tangy red fruit along with spice and salty minerality. When you drink it without food, the salinity and minerality really pop out. Don’t sense any oak, so if there’s oak, it’s neutral.AC10/18/21https://www.buenaesperanza.cl/
Buena Esperanza2020Huasco, AtacamaChardonnayWhite88fresh, easy Chardonnay. Nose rather mute. No wood or malolactic.AC9/10/22https://www.buenaesperanza.cl/
Buena Esperanza2020Gran ReservaHuasco, AtacamaChardonnayWhite91A third spends time in single use oak, a third in 3rd use oak and a third in stainless steel. Essentially the same grapes as the normal Chardonnay, but this is more powerful and darker. It has more acid, body and structure overall with some savory notes from the oak.AC9/10/22https://www.buenaesperanza.cl/
Buena Esperanza2020Hacienda del HuascoHuasco, AtacamaBlendRed90Petit Verdot, Carmenere, Cabernet S. and Syrah. At first there’s a vegetal, green pepper nose but it becomes floral with some swirling. 12 months in 2nd use oak. Medium+ body. Some tannins, but relatively soft. Fruity, juicy palate with good acid.AC9/10/22https://www.buenaesperanza.cl/
Buzeta2018Cachorro ReservaCuricoPinot NoirRed 86Production is about 1,000 bottles a year. Spends 6 month in French oak. Darker color for a Pinot. At the moment, the nose is shy but there are underlying dark red fruit and savory notes. The palate features dark cherry with some spice and a bit of alcoholic and oaky aftertaste. Medium-low acid. A bit heavier than most Pinot. Curico is more inland than where most Chilean Pinots come from and Pinot is not a common grape in the area, so it feels rather generic central valley red wine than Pinot.AC8/3/21https://vinabuzeta.cl/
Caballo Loco2014Grand CruApalta, ColchaguaCabernet S., CarmenereRed90A high end wine by Valdivieso. Lots of potential, but tight. Cabernet S. characteristics. Dark fruit. Graphite. Tannic structure. Needs time to soften up. Some heat too. AC8/10/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
Caballo Loco2015Sagrada Familia Grand CruCuricoMalbec blendRed89Interesting nose-green notes. Medicinal. Round, easy and dark on palate. Touch of heat. AC8/31/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
Caballo Loco2014LimariSyrahRed89Fresh dark fruit, spice, earth. Touch of heat. Modern but not over the top. AC8/10/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
Cacique Maravilla2016Bio-BioPaisRed89Organically dry-framed grapes planted in 1766. Cloudy color. Meaty savoury earthy nose. Strawberry. Cinnamon. Good everyday food wine. AC12/8/17https://www.caciquemaravilla.cl/
Caiti2018Edicion Limitada Gran ReservaCachapoalMerlotRed88Ripe fruity nose with a little coffee. Palate is round, just enough acidity with ripe fruit and vanilla, but a little bitter oak on the back end. Typical international style Merlot. Only 8 dollars on sale.AC4/28/20N/A
Calcu2015Winemaker's SelectionColchaguaBlendRed90Cabernet S., Carmenere and Cabernet Franc. Some typical green pepper but subtle and integrated. Ripe dark fruit. Nice grip but balanced. AC2/28/20https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2014Reserva EspecialColchaguaCabernet FrancRed89Herbaceous nose, good acidity, balanced. Touch floral. Typical Cabernet Franc character. Only 5 dollars. AC8/18/17http://calcu.cl/en
Calcu2016Reserva EspecialColchaguaCabernet FrancRed87A little Carmenere and Petit Verdot blended in. Reticent nose. Some dark red fruit, coffee and herbs. Low acid. Touch of heat and vanilla. Feels rather generic Chilean. Lacks punch. AC6/5/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2015Reserva EspecialColchaguaCabernet S.Red87Mute nose. Spice. Less fruity than the Carmenere version.AC8/10/18https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2016Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red89Fresh red fruit, Some wood and tobacco on the nose. Some tannic structure. Menthol.AC4/26/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2015Reserva EspecialColchaguaCarmenereRed88Riper style, herbal, menthol, licorice.AC8/10/18https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2016Reserva EspecialColchaguaMalbecRed87Lighter style. Fresh. Simple and fruity. Not much on the nose.AC4/17/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2009Anay Founders Collection Ultra PremiumColchaguaSyrahRed91Big ripe fruit, some dark and red fruit. Good freshness. Doesn't really fit into Aussie Shiraz or Northern Rhone. Modern without much sense of terroir or varietal, but not oaked or dark-ripe. This is a wine that I've never seen sold in Chile, only Brazil. It's also rare for a Chilean winery to make a Syrah based premium wine. They are usually lighter in style. I had this next to a John Duval Plexus Barossa Shiraz blend which was both darker but more elegant and complex. AC12/4/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2005Hacienda los PresidentesColchaguaBlendRed91A wine made for export only. 38 Syrah, 32 Carmenere, 15 Cabernet Franc, 8 Petit Verdot, 7 Malbec. Rodrigo Romero was the winemaker. It’s called “los presidentes” because in the 19th century, 2 Chilean presidents had their cabinet meetings on this property and they often served the local wine to celebrate the passing of legislation. The collor shows some aging on the edges, but it’s still rather youthful and dark, almost completely opaque. The nose reminds me of 12+ year old aged Bordeaux with ripe fruit that’s starting to smell like dried fruit, tobacco, spice, cedar. The palate still has plenty of acidity and tannins to improve over the next 5 years and last even longer if well kept, but the fruit is also starting to taste like dried fruit with spicy oak notes. It’s a bit bitter on the backend. A great deal tasting a nice 17-year-old Chilean wine for only around $12.AC3/29/22https://calcu.cl/en/
Calcu2016Reserva EspecialCentral ValleyChardonnayWhite87Very tropical. Notes of pineapple and cream. More fruity than buttery. Passion fruit.CS5/14/20https://calcu.cl/en/
Calcu2015Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet s.Red89Bold, fruit forward, slightly herbal. Plum notes.CS9/1/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2014Winemaker's Selection BlendColchaguaCabernet s., cabernet franc, carmenereRed88Nice daily drinker. Oak notes, dark fruit profile.CS9/1/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2015Winemaker's Selection BlendColchaguaCabernet S., Cabernet franc, carmenere, merlotRed89Well balanced red blend of the Bordeaux style. Aged, all-spice,, chocolate, more red fruit dominated with a touch of cassis.CS2/14/20https://calcu.cl/en/
Calcu2016Reserva EspecialColchaguaMalbecRed88Oak notes, toast, pepper, earth.CS9/1/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2009Anay Founders Collection Ultra PremiumColchaguaSyrahRed87Highly rated wine and I was eager to try. I personally found this to be past its prime. Perhaps a few years earlier it would have ranked slightly higher. I will try to find something more young. Too much age. However, it was balanced, acidic still, but the fruit was lacking.CS12/4/19https://calcu.cl/
Calcu2021Gran ReservaColchaguaSauvignon Blanc SemillionWhite9070% Sauvignon Blanc 30% Semillon – Herbal and tropical nose. Fresh palate with melon, peach and passion fruit. Still feels more Sauvignon Blanc, but perhaps there’s a little more body to it than most.AC1/13/23https://calcu.cl/
Caliterra2015TributoColchaguaCarmenereRed90Fruit forward, vibrant, fresh, vanilla, round; started as an Errazuriz and Mondavi projectAC9/3/17https://www.caliterra.cl/
Caliterra2015TributoColchaguaCarmenereRed90Fruity and juicier than most Carmenere, some typical peppercorn notes, savoury notes. Can be found for as cheap as 9 dollars. AC9/16/18https://www.caliterra.cl/
Caliterra2018ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed88Dark fruit, chocolate. Simple. A little too much oak. Menthol. AC12/30/19https://www.caliterra.cl/
Callma Vinum2018VenerisCasablancaPinot NoirRed 91Small independent producer. Native yeast used. Producer leans towards natural and sustainable winemaking, but uses some sulfites. Another great Chilean Pinot bargain at about $13. Bright nose of red fruit, minerality with a touch of caramel from the oak. Verges on floral notes but stays more savory. The palate is fresh and juicy, light and elegant.AC12/4/20https://www.facebook.com/callma.vinum.3
Callma Vinum2021VenerisCasablancaPinot NoirRed 90Red fruit, floral and spicy herbal on the nose. Light, pretty red berry and floral notes on the palate. A touch minerally. Medium acid. Moderate length.AC11/24/24https://www.facebook.com/callma.vinum.3
Calyptra2014Gran ReservaAlto CachapoalSauvignon BlancWhite93Considered by many as the best Sauvignon Blanc in the country. It spends 18-24 months in oak agin with contact in their lees. It's an SB more like high end Loire Valley or Bordeaux whites. It is definitely different than your typical SB from Casablanca or Leyda. It's a lot thicker and complex on the nose. You still get the fresh crispness and citrus you get in Casablanca, but there's also more salinity and creaminess. Texturely it's also more like a light red. Silky. Richer and more stone fruit than Casablanca. It's a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc to splurge on when even a 7 dollar SB can do the job with oysters and seafood. Costs around 26 dollars here. AC12/30/18https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2011IneditoCachapoalBlendRed92Bigger and darker than the Calyptra Gran Reserva. Blend of Cab and Merlot. More oak influence, but in a good way showing spic, cedar, tobacco. Tannins still young and firm. The winemaker is the same as Clos des Fous, Francois Massoc, who has access to high quality French oak from his days as a barrel cooper. Around 36 dollars on sale. AC8/31/18https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2013Gran ReservaCachapoalBlendRed90Cab, syrah and merlot. herby tomato leaf, cool fruit, good acid, tannic structure, but drinkable now with some decanting and food.AC8/31/18https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2013VivendoCachapoalBlendRed88Smoky cedar, pepper, meaty, caramel, dark fruit, chocolate, menthol. Almost equal parts CS, Merlot and Syrah. Some heat. Lots of fruit and oak and sometimes the oak is too much, especially without food. AC11/15/18https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2013Gran ReservaCachapoalCabernet S.Red85Oaky. Stewed tomatoes. Ripe dark cherry. Camphor. Oak just overwhelms the fruit. AC11/28/18https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2016Gran ReservaCachapoalPinot NoirRed92Big and oakier Pinot, but the oak is well integrated. Dark berry fruit. Floral notes. Complex but modern-thick, big and dark fruit. AC8/10/19https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2011IneditoCachapoalRed BlendRed92Around 287 cases made. 26 months in new French oak which it gives it a smoky toasy caramel aspect to the nose. Ripe dark plum fruit but keeps some acidity. No heat despite the 14.5% alcohol. Verges on being too oaky and ripe, but it's not. Mostly CS with some Merlot and Syrah. This would be a good wine to match with saucy American BBQ. 92+AC2/10/19https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2015Gran ReservaCachapoalSauvignon BlancWhite93Around 300 cases made. As good as I remember the previous vintage being. Has nice minerality and freshness with a complex nose, with a richer creamier texture than most Sauvignon Blanc here. AC12/24/19https://www.calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2013Fort (Vino Fortificado)CachapoalBlendFortifiedN/ACofermentation of Cabernet, Syrah and Merlot. Aged for 60 months in French oak. 16% Alcohol. 3,200 bottles made. Low alcohol for a Port-like wine. However, I like it. You get the velvety feel, fruit and chocolate you get in Port without the heat from the alcohol or being too sweet like some cheaper Ruby Ports. It also has some acidity to go with the dried fruit richness and spices. I don’t drink enough Port to score this, but I like it. It’s sort of in between a rich wine (I’ve had Zins at close 16%) vs. a standard fortified wine.AC8/21/21http://calyptra.cl/
Calyptra2021VivendoCachapoalPinot NoirRed88In a blind tasting with Burgundy, everyone knew it was Chilean. It was the fruitiest with some sweet oak, herbal notes and less acid. Some heat. Apparently the cuttings were taken from Romanee Conti. AC6/14/23https://www.calyptra.cl/site/
Calyptra 2011IneditoCachapoalBlendRed92The last time I had this was over 2 years ago. Overall, everything is a bit more integrated, and the alcohol and tannins are toned down. It’s still characterized by a nose of smoked oak, spice, caramel, tomato leaf and ripe plum. The palate still has good acidity and shows more fruit than the nose. Still a big wine, but it’s quite smooth at this stage and should be in prime drinking for another 5+ years.AC5/15/21https://www.calyptra.cl/site/
Cancha Alegre2015CauquenesGarnachaRedOpen tank. Punch downs. No racking. Fruity and fresh. Dark flowers.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Cancha Alegre2016CauquenesCarignanRedPotent ripe red fruit and spices. Its big tannic and acidic structure makes me think this can age and get better.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Cancha Alegre2016CauquenesCarmenereRed– Strong baked bell pepper nose. Soft and fruity palate. Some dark fruit. Closer to commercial Carmenere in its dark fruit and ripeness, but unlike those wines, it doesn’t try to hide the pyrazines.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Cancha Alegre2016CauquenesCot (Malbec)RedTannic. Violets. Acidic for a Malbec. Some bitter notes.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Cancha Alegre2014AsoleadoCauquenesPaisSweet100% Pais. 6 years in barrel. Nose of forest and bushes, but the palate is what you’d expect with syrupy sweetness kept from being cloying by the acidity and nutty flavors.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Cancha Alegre2016MauleCot (Malbec)Red92Quite fruity, floral and ripe with medium-full body but round texture but still with dark and red fruit/more acidity distinguishing from Mendoza.AC4/6/24https://www.facebook.com/canchaalegre.wine.7/
Capellano2018MauleCinsaultRed83Rustic Cloudy color and rustic on the palate. Not much nose. Natural wine profile. A but funky and bitter. Touch heat. Medium+ acid.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/mauricio98vega/
Capellano2019MaulePais/SyrahRed8770 Pais/30 Syrah Cleaner than the Cinsault. Medium bodied. Medium+ acid. Get the native yeasts some steminess but less than the Cinsault.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/mauricio98vega/
Capellano2023Mistela BlancaMauleGewurztraminerFortified89100% Gewürztraminer. - Quite sweet but ok cold. Floral, lots of honey. They add aguardiente to stop the fermentation.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/mauricio98vega/
Carmen2016Do Quijada #1Apalta, ColchaguaSemillonWhite90Golden color. Nose takes time to open up, but it reveals ripe pear and apple notes, some butter, minerality and complexity from the oak-something savory and a touch of vanilla. The palate is definitely creamy, low acid for a white, with a touch of oak at the end. Definitely a change from your average Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. More New World Chardonnay-like, but not overdone. They also do a Semillon under a veil of flor called Florillon. AC6/12/20https://www.carmen.com/en/
CarmenNVGrand CuveeCasablancaChardonnaySparkling85Carmen Espumante Gran Cuvee Brut Casablanca Charmat method used (aka Italian method like prosecco). 100% Chardonnay. Not overly sweet like many Chilean sparkling wines, but it’s rather basic overall. Still fruit driven, but lacking acidity. Lacks the fine bubbles of champagne. But this is $10 sparkling wine that won’t offend.AC12/31/20https://www.carmen.com/en/
CarmenN/AWinemaker's BlackColchaguaCarmenereRed90Medoc like nose, cassis, spice, pencil shavings, Good acidity and elegance, but simple palateAC9/16/17https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2014Gran ReservaEl Acacio MaipoPetite SirahRed88Earth herbal notes, sort of grape medicine. Palate is dark and mentholated with some licorice, vanilla, medium acid. Some tannic structure, but the fruit faded on day 2. AC11/18/18https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2019Do Loma SecaItataCinsaultRed93Wax seal. Great nose of ripe berry fruit and beautiful violet with a touch of dried herbal notes. Like with many Cinsault, the nose is superior to the palate, but the palate still packs a nice punch with the same ripe fruit, violet, good acidity, and a savory back end while still remaining light bodied and elegant. It’s sort of like a light-bodied floral Gigondas. This is less red-fruited than most Cinsault I’ve had and maybe that’s because the violet notes just permeate the wine, making the whole wine feel more purple. It has to be one of the best Cinsault I’ve had in Chile and given the fact that very few places do single varietal Cinsault, that makes it one of the better Cinsault you’ll find in the world. Itata is becoming synonymous with Cinsault. All for $13 in Chile.AC9/3/20https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2016Do Melozal el BajoMaulePortugais BleuRed88Herbal and oyster shell like salinity. Color almost opaque. Darker than expected. A streak of acidity to keep it fresh. Low tannins. Fruity and simple palate. AC9/7/19https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen1982MargauxMaipoBlendRedNot sure what the varieties are, but it's most likely a Cabernet based Bordeaux blend. Not that far from the various aged Bordeaux I’ve tried. Dried fruit and touch of tobacco, but still a lot of acidity showing it’s still alive.AC1/9/22https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2018Central ValleyMerlotRed91Feminine, silk. Blackberry, plum with notes of balanced oak, vanilla and chocolate.CS3/28/20https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2016Gran ReservaMaipoPetit SirahRed98Near perfect wine. Excellent find, under the radar, under priced. Dark, concentrated fruit with structure, aging ability and acidity. Wonderful.CS2/21/20https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2016Melozal El Bajo Cuartel 5MaulePortugais BleuRed89Interesting and rare grape to find. Dried plum, black cherry, almost a balsomic taste. Slightly spicy. Hard to rate, as I have limited experience with this varietal. CS9/7/19https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carmen2021Florillon #4Colchagua ApaltaSemillonWhite92100% Semillon. Vines planted in 1958 on granite and clay soils. Processed without protection from oxidiation with 3 months on lees in French oak barrels. They were then racked into 75% full barrels to allow a veil of flor to form and it was like this for 12 months. Unfined or unfiltered.
On the nose blind, one would immediately say Sherry. On the palate, it starts with Sherry notes but there's apple fruit and acidity in the background without the alcohol of Sherry. More body than the Granito. However, if you don't like Sherry or Vin Jaune from the Jura, this is not for you. I can't deny the overall quality even though I'm not a Sherry drinker. There's intensity, length and clarity to what it is.
AC6/18/23https://www.carmen.com/en/
Carta Vieja2016Loncomilla, MauleCarmenereRed88Fresh, earthy and floral on nose. Palate simple. A line of Vina del PedregalAC9/8/17http://www.delpedregalwines.com/wines/carta_vieja--eng.html
Carter Mollenhauer2018Aurora de ItataItataCinsaultRed75Had all Cater Mollenhauer at a tasting event. Unsure if there was a problem with the serving batch.CS9/1/19http://cmwines.cl/
Carter Mollenhauer2018Aurora de ItataItataPaísRed50Unsure if storage issues were at play. Need to revisit.CS9/1/19http://cmwines.cl/
Carter Mollenhauer2015Aurora de ItataItataSemillonRed60Next to undrinkable. Need to revisit.CS9/1/19http://cmwines.cl/
Carter Mollenhauer 2018Aurora de ItataItataCinsaultRed90Earthy, smoky, spicy nose. Palate bright red fruit and floral. AC9/1/19https://www.facebook.com/cartermollenhauerwines/
Cartesiano2019ChichaColchagua PaisSparklingNRCartesiano is a project between Tringario, OWM, Vultur and Singular Wines with the goal of preserving traditional grapes and practices in Chile. Hence, this wine is one of the few commercial “Chichas” made by professional winemakers. Lots of homemade chicha can be found in the countryside and mass-produced cheap and simple chicha is sold in the supermarkets to celebrate Fiestas Patrias (the national holiday of Chile) in September. However, there are only a few wineries that make it. Chicha is a fermented alcoholic drink that exists in many South American countries originating from Native-Americans. It can be made with vegetables or fruit. It’s not until the Spanish came when chicha started to be made with wine grapes in Chile although other types of chicha can be found in Chile, such as apple chicha. Chicha can also be ‘cruda,’ which is the simplest form. Essentially they take the grape juice and let it partially ferment. This is typically drunk during harvest. It can also be ‘cocida’ or ‘cooked’ in copper containers which concentrates it and adds carbonate to reduce the acidity. Hence, it’s more like light sparkling red and is bottled as such for Fiestas Patrias. These can keep a few years too as opposed to the ‘cruda’ which should be drunk in 4-6 months. I must admit that I’ve never had chicha before, so I have nothing to compare it to, but this is probably the “cocida” type given all the bubbles and foam that gushed to the top when we opened it and the low acidity. The nose was fruity at first, reminding me of fermented peaches. However, it later became rather vegetal. The palate tastes like watered down dark purple fruit, violet, cinnamon with a little fizz. It’s sort of like drinking a wheat beer blended with wine. I can’t really give it a score because it’s not really a wine per se. It’s its own category and I have nothing to compare it to.AC6/1/21N/A
Cartesiano 2019ChacoliRapelWhite BlendWhiteNRAlthough it’s not on the front label, the description says this wine was made as if it were a chacoli. A blend of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Moscatel de Frontignanque. Also a blend of valleys: Cachapoal and Colchagua. 13.5% alcohol. I couldn’t sense any bubbles although both Spanish and Chilean Chacoli typically have a bit of spritz to it. Maybe a tiny bit upon opening, but ultimately it was rather flat. There’s an herbal and spicy side to this wine which must come from Sauvignon Blanc. There’s sort of petrol and salinic side to it. Dry. Medium acid. Otherwise rather light and simple.AC6/5/21N/A
Casa Bauza2017MaipoBlendRed92Syrah, Cabernet S., Petit Verdot, Carmenere and Carignan. Nice high tone dark red fruit. Most elegant of their selectionAC4/14/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2017FlexMaipoCarmenereRed90Interesting project comparing the same Carmenere but aged in different ways. This was aged in plastic. Dark earthy nose, coffee, baking spice.AC4/14/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2017HuevoMaipoCarmenereRed90Interesting project comparing the same Carmenere but aged in different ways. This was aged in a concrete egg -baking spice, minerality.AC4/14/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2017FudreMaipoCarmenereRed90Interesting project comparing the same Carmenere but aged in different ways. This was aged in big oak casks. It was the most savoury, herbal and tannic of the three. Probably the closest to standard Chilean Carmenere. AC4/14/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2017PresumidoMaipoCarmenere blendRed91Mostly Carmenere wit some Cabernet Franc and Carignan. This mixes the plastic, egg, casks aged wines with barrel aged wines. It makes sense that this is more complex, sort of mixing all the previous 3 wines together. But it's also smoother and riperAC4/14/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa BauzaNVGala BrutLimariPinot Noir, ChardonnaySparkling9064,4% Pinot Noir - 35,6% Chardonnay. 36 months in bottle. Traditional method. Savory nose with toasty bready notes. Decent number of bubbles, but not Champagne bubbly, but the overall style is closer to that than most Chilean espumante. Green apple. Pear.AC7/8/22https://bauzastore.cl/
Casa Bauza2020PresumidoMaipoCarmenereRed9340% in various aged barrels, 30% fudre, 20% flexicube plastic and 10% concrete eggs. Very Bordeaux..you get some cooked green pepper notes and a bit of chocolate, baking spice but it's overall a dark red fruit wine with more freshness and elegance than most Chilean Carmenere. Second day, more vegetal on the nose and floral fruity palate, reminding me more of good Loire Valley Cab Franc rather than Bordeaux.AC11/5/22https://bauzastore.cl/
Casa BauzaNVGala BrutLimariPinot Noir, ChardonnaySparkling8735% chardonnay, 65% pinot noir. Nice easy drinker. Medium sized bubbles.CS9/4/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2018PresumidoMaipoCarmenereRed93Vertical tasting. Excellent, well balanced. Aged, dark bouquet, earthy. Hard to pick a winner between this and the 2017. Equal ratings.CS9/1/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bauza2017PresumidoMaipoCarmenereRed93Nearly identical to the 2018. Perhaps slightly more earthy. CS9/1/19https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa BauzaNVAlborotoMaipoCarmenereRed90From Maipo, but from a part of the Maipo region that’s not known from its wine north of Santiago in Til Til. Most of the vineyards in Maipo are to the east along the cordillera or to the south of Santiago. It’s a blend of the 2019, 2020, 2021 vintages. This is a fruit driven wine. There’s a bit of pyrazine and spice on the nose that you often get with Carmenere, but it’s really all about ripe red and purple fruit. That carries through to the palate with good acidity, medium body, and no hard edges from the alcohol or tannins. Don’t think much or any new oak was used. Above average acidity for a Carmenere. There’s some Hawaiian Punch notes to the fruit. Not the most profound or complex wine, but it’s a delicious, ripe, fruity but fresh Carmenere.AC6/6/23https://www.facebook.com/casaBauza/?__tn__=k*F&tn-str=k*F
Casa Bucalemu2018SalinasLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite89Vegetal nose and citrusy palate with salinity.AC10/2/21https://www.casasdebucalemu.cl/
Casa Bucalemu2018FosilesLeydaPinot NoirRed90dark and smoky on the nose and the palate is rather dark for Pinot too with spice. Rather tannic for a Pinot too, but there’s also underlying acidity keeping it fresh. A darker, bigger Pinot for the region. 90+AC10/2/21https://www.casasdebucalemu.cl/
Casa Curti2017Sin Filtrar Edicion LimitadaCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Earthy and floral nose. Palate with red tangy fruit, almost tropical fruity. Cloudy color.AC4/14/19https://www.casacurti.cl/
Casa Curti2016AureliaCasablancaSyrahRed90Light for a Syrah. Good acidity. Fruit driven with some spice and herbal notes.AC4/14/19https://www.casacurti.cl/
Casa Curti2018Edición LimitadaCasablancaPinot NoirRed92Fruit forward, aromatic. Ruby red color. Lighter tannins and medium power.CS9/1/19https://www.casacurti.cl/
Casa Curti2018AureliaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite96Minerality, saline, acidic. Tropical fruits, pineapple, honey. Well balanced. Slightly oak aged and a long time in contact with skins.CS9/1/19https://www.casacurti.cl/
Casa Curti2016AureliaCasablancaSyrahRed88Highly rated, although I expected slightly more. Barrel spice, wet forest floor earthiness and a wiff of white pepper.CS9/1/19https://www.casacurti.cl/
Casa Donoso2015Sucesor Red Limited ReleaseMauleBlendRed9080% Carmenre, 20% Malbec. Nose rather typical Carmenere with peppercorn, coffee. Red fruit. Fresh style of Carmenere. Perhaps it's the cooler climate in Maule. AC9/26/19https://donosogroup.com/vinos.html
Casa Donoso2015Grand DomaineMauleCarmenere, MalbecRed92Aroma heavy in oak and spice. Slight tobacco. Red fruits, dark color, nice balanced bouquet with holding acidity.CS9/29/19http://www.donosogroup.com/
Casa DonosoNVLimited Edition DuChileCarmenereFortified8995% Carmenere, 5% Malbec. 24 months in French barrels. Only 17% alcohol. Ripe dark cherry fruit with chocolate and coffee notes on the nose and palate. It's also slightly floral on the nose. Balanced with no heat or astringency. Not particularly complex though. Not sure there's anything particularly Carmenere about it either. Still a pleasant dessert, Port-like wine.AC7/1/23https://tiendacasadonoso.cl/en
Casa Donoso2020Sucesor Limited ReleaseMaulePortugais BleuRed89100% Portugais Bleu or Blauer Portugieser. 75% aged in amphorae and 25% in French barrels for 8-10 months. Dark opaque color. The nose reveals medium intensity dark wild forest berries like blackberry and blueberry, some herbal notes and a touch of sweet oak notes. The palate packs a punch of that fruit on the attack but is quite medium to light bodied the rest of the way with a tiny streak of acid in the middle and soft tannins. Overall, medium-low acid and soft tannins. Slightly bitter back-end. Slightly medicinal. The palate overall is simpler and less intense given the color and nose. It is sort of like a lighter, less tannic Petite Syrah.AC8/29/23http://www.donosogroup.com/
Casa Donoso2020Sucesor Limited ReleaseMauleCesar Noir (Romano)Red90100% Cesar Noir. 80 year old vines. 70% aged in clay amphorae and 30% in French barrels for 8-10 months. Medium dark color. Nose of tangy, bright, not quite ripe blackberries leaning towards red berry fruit with savory spices. A touch floral. The nose is a bit shy at the moment though. The tangy berry fruit carries through to the palate with a savory finish. Medium-light body with present but mild tannins that disappear with food. Juicy. A touch earthy. Similar to Pinot but darker in color and not as elegant. Not too different from the 2018 Casa Silva version I had although the 2017 Casa Silva Romano (Cesar Noir) was darker, lacked acid and more Syrah-like. It seems like both producers have started to make this more elegant, brighter and red-fruited than their earlier attempts at this variety. Worth an extra point if the nose opens up more.AC9/5/23http://www.donosogroup.com/
Casa Hernandez2019Premium Gran ReservaCauquenesPaisRed90From 150-year-old vines. 2 years in 2nd use American oak barrels. More elegant version than most Pais. More in the style of a Burgundy or Beaujolais. There are tannins, but soft. Light, floral, red fruit. Good Acid. Mostly natural winemaking with minimal sulfites added.AC9/10/22https://casahernandez.cl/
Casa Hernandez2020Gran ReservaCauquenesCarignan + PaisRed9150-50 Carignan-Pais. 18 months in 3rd use French oak. More savory, herbal with oak spice than the Pais. More acid and tannins too. Dark and red fruit. 91+ Total production of all their wines is around 4,000 bottles/yearAC9/10/22https://casahernandez.cl/
Casa Klocker Prambs2021Gran Lago Blanc de Blancs BrutCuenca del Llanquihue PatagoniaGewurztraminerSparkling90Founded in 2012 by Claudio López Klocker, descendent of Austrian and Swiss immigrants who came in the 19th century, with a focus on sparkling wines using eco-friendly methods. The grapes are grown in Pedernal Bajo in Frutillar around Lake Llanquihue. It’s one of the southernmost producers in Chile. Tiny production. A bottle costs about $37. Soils are a mix of volcanic and limestone with a bit of clay. 100% Gewürztraminer. They also make a sparkling rosé made with Pinot Noir and a bit of Malbec. Everything is done by hand. Native yeasts with the initial fermentation. 12 months on lees. Standard dosage for a Brut at 12 g/l. 11.5% alcohol. The nose is shy with some toasted bread, honey, floral notes. The palate has plenty of fine, fairly intense bubbles with medium persistence. Lots of Gewürz flavor up-front like lychee and lemon-honey notes with medium+ acid. The nature of Gewürz gives it a sweet like character to the fruit, but this is still a dry wine. Light and refreshing. Not cloying. But it's definitely not a typical Chardonnay-Pinot sparkling. It has some Gewürz character, which is apropos given the Germanic influence of the region. I was hoping to have more volcanic character to it given its location, but it's still a step above typical Charmat method Chilean sparkling which lack the same finesse and/or are too cloying even for Brut.AC1/1/24https://casaklockerprambs.cl/
Casa Lattes2023Smooth BreezeLimariMoscatel de AlejandriaDessertThis producer sources from other producers to make wine for export. A sweet, floral wine, but with enough acidity to keep it from being overly cloying. Best drunk cold. Nice as a summer time wine to drink by the pool.AC11/25/23https://casalattes.com/#
Casa Libre2021De Otro PlanetaCuricoSauvignon GrisOrange899-10 months with skins in amphorae. Floral. Medium bodied and médium acid. Mild vegetal notes, but rather tropical fruit.AC4/22/23https://casalibre.cl/
Casa Libre2021De Otro PlanetaItataMoscatel de AlejandriaOrange91Orange wine, with leafy, vegetal and oxidized notes. Good acidity. Cloudy orange yellow color. Spicy. Fruity almost sweet nose though. Obviously you have to like skin-contact whites, but it’s good for that genre.AC5/11/24https://casalibre.cl/
Casa Marin2015CartagenaSan AntonioPinot NoirRed90Some zest, red berry fruit, some heat, briny quality. AC9/28/17https://www.casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2021No. 5 Pet NatLo AbarcaPinot NoirSparklingN/ACloudy pink color reminding me of strawberry starburst candy. It’s a fruity low acid strawberry flavored sparkling made from Pinot Noir. No sulfites. No filtering. By definition a natural sparkling wine with fermentation in bottle to give its carbonation.AC9/3/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2018Lo Abarca No 2San AntonioSauvignon BlancWhiteN/AThe Lo Abarca line all come from an area of their property featuring calcareous soil and marine deposits. This spends time in barrel unlike the Casa Marin Sauvignon Blanc which only sees stainless steel, but I didn’t sense a strong influence from the oak. The nose is potent and herbaceous with asparagus and jalapeño. On the palate, there’s fresh acidity, white peach, some tropical notes and minerality. This is so textbook, pure Sauvignon Blanc.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2018CartagenaSan AntonioRieslingWhiteN/Atextbook with obvious petrol on the nose along with high acid and higher sugar (compared to the other 2 whites), giving it sort of a sour apple flavor. There’s also salinity on the palate.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2019San AntonioGewurztraminerWhiteN/AThe nose has plenty of floral notes (lychee). Lower sugar for a Gewurz, so it still tastes fresh with plenty of acidity. This has more of an oily feel–the thickest of 3 whites. There’s pineapple, peach and a little spice too.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2012Lo Abarca HillsSan AntonioPinot NoirRedN/AOne of their icon wines, but it still sells for less than $50 around the world. The soil here is different from the previous: Clay. Volcanic. Also used spontaneous fermentation and was unfiltered, but unlike the Lo Abarca, it sees some new oak (20%). This shows some signs of aging on the rim. There’s more acidity and more red fruit with floral and spicy notes. Some sweet oak.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2018Lo Abarca No 1San AntonioPinot NoirRedN/AMade with spontaneous fermentation and unfiltered. Aged in used oak. This one is darker and less acidic than the other Pinot. There are smoky savory notes and a bit of floral notes on the nose. Still young with some tannic structure. There’s some spice and wood on the back-end.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2012Miramar VineyardSan AntonioSyrahRedN/AAlso goes through spontaneous fermentation, French oak aging (35% new). Daily battonage and pump over. It has a smoky, meaty, leathery nose with high acid for a Syrah. There’s some dried dark fruit, plum and black pepper. This is not at all the high alcohol, dark, low acid fruit driven Shiraz or Syrahs you often find in Australia and California. It’s a fresh, lighter version closer to the Northern Rhone, but really it’s its own thing. The acid and tannins will allow it to age and still go well with red meat or barbecues, but it should be more versatile with lighter foods than most Syrahs too.AC9/17/21https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2018CartagenaSan AntonioRieslingWhite91This fooled me for a German Riesling. All the typical characteristics. Petrol. Minerality. High citrus acid. Some structure. A touch of sweetness, but ultimately a dry version. AC4/27/22https://casamarin.cl/en/home/
Casa Marin2008MiramarSan AntonioRieslingWhite93Color shows more age. Tastes more oxidized, aged. Sort of burnt rubber, petrol on the nose. Touch of spice and vegetal, reminding me of some orange wines. Some chamomile. Palate is still quite sweet..apple cider, but still lots of acid. Becomes really savory on the palate with acid but still fruit. 2008AC6/15/22https://casamarin.cl/en/home/
Casa Marin2021Lo AbarcaSan AntonioRieslingWhite89Savory, minerally nose. Slightly fizzy palate. Middle of the road Riesling with good balance of sweetness and acidity.AC6/15/22https://casamarin.cl/en/home/
Casa Marin2020Cipreses VineyardSan AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite92Lots of green pepper and jalapeño on the nose with some minerality and white fruit in the background that slowly become more prominent. The palate is creamier and fuller than most Chilean Sauvignon Blanc with a white floral note and some of the savory vegetal and spicy notes. Fresh and still cool climate but a little less acid than average Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. Definitely less acid and minerality than the Laberinto. Fruitier. Different terroir and style. Still young with some time to improve. 92+AC10/30/22https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2015CartagenaSan AntonioGarnacha, syrahRed87Fruit forward with acidity. Red fruit concentrated with a slight spice.CS2/17/20https://www.casamarin.cl/casamarin-eng
Casa Marin2018CartagenaSan AntonioRieslingWhite83No personality, no structure, nearly no acidity (rare for a riesling). Just a fast glass chugger with no flavor. CS2/17/20https://www.casamarin.cl/casamarin-eng
Casa Marin2021CipresesSan AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite92Slightly lighter color than the Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc. Also vegetal, green peppers and asparagus. (more than the Greywacke). Tiny bit of fiz with first sip but it went away immediately. Plenty of acid. Oyster shell like salinity. More minerally and salinic than the Greywacke.AC12/7/22https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2013CipresesSan AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite93vegetal, freen savory herbs, citrus, salinity, spice. Intense palate. More expressive than the 2021. No signs of oxidation at almost 10 years old. Silkier texture than the 2021 but not that different. Still young and vibrant.AC12/7/22https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2020Lo Abarca No 2San AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite92Mint, citrus, fruity and herbal nose. High acid with savory dried herbs on the palate. A little fuller than most Chilean Sauvignon Blancs. Lots of that ocean salinity too, which makes sense given the location of the vineyard. 12 months in used barrels. Fuller than the Cipreses, but the more acid.AC12/7/22https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2018LitoralSan AntonioPinot NoirRed92Native yeasts. 12 months in used French oak. This has a nice earthiness to it with herbal notes. The palate is balanced with fruit, acid and savory notes and elegant structure. Like a lot of the Casa Marin wines, the variety and terroir are highlighted. Someone remarked it reminded them of good Willamette Valley Pinot.AC4/9/22https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2023CartagenaSan AntonioRieslingWhite91explodes with fruit and floral notes with mild petrol both on the nose and palate. Plenty of Riesling acidity too.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2023San AntonioGarnachaRose91Tangy, red berry fruit with a touch of salinity at the end. Good length. Shy nose but palate is mouthwatering and.yummy. higher acid than most rosé.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2021LitoralSan AntonioPinot NoirRed90Spicy Pinot with red cherry fruit, medium acid and medium-light body. I've liked this more in the past. Maybe needs time to open up.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2013LitoralSan AntonioSyrahRed92Bloody, smoky, spicy notes. Licorice. Dark fruit but high acid. Quite old world syrah; more about savory and sour than sugar. Begs for food. Should last a while longer with its acid but the tannins are already suave.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2023Lo Abarca No 2San AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite90Similar to the Casas de Bucalemu SB next to it. Ample acid. Integrated vegetal notes but also floral notes. Less expressive on the nose though.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Marin2016Cartagena Coastal RedSan AntonioBlendRed91Tart red berry fruit with some savory, meaty, spicy notes from the Syrah. Still some tannins but will be fine with food and this definitely more of a food wine vs. The riper, more modern versions of Cotes du Rhone. An experiment with cool climate Grenache which is usually a warm climate grape. A salty and sour wine.AC3/16/24https://casamarin.cl/
Casa Montero2018Gran Reserva Bordeaux BlendColchaguaBlendRed88Mostly Merlot with some Cabernet S. & Carmenere. Some wood and herbal notes. Dark ripe fruit. Not much mid-palate. A little heat. Chalky tannins, but decent acidic and tannic structure.AC10/2/21https://casamontero.cl/home/
Casa Montero2017Misia TeresaColchaguaBlendRed90a blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon- red fruit, medium+ acid, baking spice and dark red fruit on the palate. Still young with potential to improve. 90+AC10/2/21https://casamontero.cl/home/
Casa Nicolas2019MallecoPinot NoirRed89Purple in color. Dark for Pinot. And that carries through on the nose and palate with purple grapey fruit, blue berries and dark cherries. There's also some minerality and a violet floral note. A tinge of oak influence, but it only spent 12 months in used French oak. A soft and easy drinking wine. Low acid. It drinks more like a light Syrah or ripe Grenache or Cinsault or unoaked Merlot. Reminds me of a less powerful version of the Baettig Pinot Noir I just had. Pinot from Malleco, despite be further south with a cooler climate, is often darker, riper and less acidic than Pinot from Casablanca, Leyda or Aconcagua. Maybe the red clay soil has something to do with it because clay can often make more lush, generous darker wines.AC2/11/21https://www.casanicolas.cl/
Casa Rivas2015ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red85Nose ok, but palate off-balanced. Oak, camphor, a little oxidizedAC9/13/17http://casarivas.cl/en/
Casa Rivas2016ReservaMaipoCarmenereRed88Herbal, fruity Merlot like palate. Medium acid.AC12/8/17http://casarivas.cl/en/
Casa Romero2014Edicion LimitadaCasablancaBlendRed90Served too cold., so not forthcoming. Dark fruit. Some spice. Some floral notes. Overall, rather closed. Too expensive at its 45 dollar price tag.AC4/14/19https://es-la.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Vi%C3%B1a-Casa-Romero-Winery-Boutique-1577337832533839/
Casa Romero2013Viento PuelcheCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Big Pinot Noir. Dark fruit. Some Pinot characteristics on the nose, but just fuller and darker than most Pinot. Modern. A Pinot for New World Cab lovers. AC3/31/19https://es-la.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Vi%C3%B1a-Casa-Romero-Winery-Boutique-1577337832533839/
Casa Romero2013Viento PuelcheCasablancaPinot NoirRed903 different altitudes/soils of Pinot. Floral nose. Standard palate but a bit on the fuller and tannic side for a Chilean PinotAC4/14/19https://es-la.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Vi%C3%B1a-Casa-Romero-Winery-Boutique-1577337832533839/
Casa Silva2017Dona DomingaColchaguaCabernet S., CarmenereRed88Dark and herbal but fresh. Fruit forward and easy. Good for the priceAC3/16/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2016ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed90Protypical Chilean carmenere, eucalyptus, herbal, chocolate, caramel, vanilla. Medium acidity. Soft tannins. Balanced.AC1/3/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2018Dona DomingaColchaguaCarmenereRed84Cheap 4 or 5 dollar wine with a typical Carmenere green pepper and coffee nose, but the palate was boring and hollow. Wasn't enough to stand up to meat dishes. AC6/3/19https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2017Romano Parras ViejasColchaguaCesar NoirRed89A rare varietal. Planted in 1912. It's sometimes mixed with Pinot in France in Irancy near Chablis. It is called Romain in France because they say it was brought by the Romans to the region. It is a cross between Pinot and Argant. However, it is darker and more tannic than Pinot. Herbal.Coffee. Ripe dark berry fruit. Spice. Almonds. Low acid. Simple palate. Interesting for the novelty of it, but in the end, not that far off from an every day Carmenere from Colchagua. AC4/1/19https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2009AlturaColchaguaRed BlendRed91Mostly Carmenere and Cabernet S. with some Petit Verdot. Cool dark fruit, spice and herbs. Nice refined mouth feel. Integrated oak. Can still get better. This wine sells for 60+ dollars. AC10/26/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2015Quinta GeneracionColchaguaRed BlendRed89Mostly Carmenere and Cabernet S. Tobacco, spice, cassis, some vanilla oak.AC10/26/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2017Lago RancoFutronoRieslingWhite9111.5% alcohol. All about minerality and acidity. It’s what you’d expect from wine grown in cool northern Patagonia on volcanic “trumao” (volacanic ash) soil. No wood influence at all. Great for salad and seafood. It also worked well with the carbonara pasta we had. Just very fresh, clean and light.AC1/4/21https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2016Lago RancoFutrono Austral PatagoniaPinot NoirRed91Cool red fruit, good acid, earthy, minerally, Aromatic. AC10/26/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2016Lago RancoFutrono PatagoniaPinot NoirRed90Tight nose at first, a little minerality and florality. Light in color and texture. Bright red fruit, strawberry, raspberry, watermelon jolly rancher. Good acid. Definitely feels like cool weather Pinot. AC8/10/19https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2016Gran Terroir de los AndesLos Lingues ColchaguaCarmenereRed89Roasted bell pepper nose, dark fruit, licoric, low acid, Some heat and oak. Should be fine with food.AC10/26/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2016Cool Coast Paredones ColchaguaPinot NoirRed88Dark for Pinot. Spicy. Some heat and oak. Licorice. Feels more like a Rhone wine. AC10/26/18https://casasilva.cl/inicio
Casa Silva2018RomanoColchaguaCesar NoirRed90Pretty nose which takes me to Burgundy-red fruit, floral and earthy tones. The palate is fairly simply, but it has good acidity, red fruit with a tiny bit of warmth from the 14% alcohol without food. Otherwise, no other hard edges. Light and easy. This is much more red-fruited and elegant compared to the 2017 which I liked less. The 2017 was more like a Rhone wine in style and less refined overall. This is more like a good village level Burgundy.AC4/21/21https://www.casasilva.cl/
Casa Silva2016Reserva CuvéeColchaguaCabernet s. Red95Balanced, well priced. Bouquet of barrel spices, tobacco, dark bitter chocolate. Earthy, forest floor and cassis. CS10/20/19https://www.casasilva.cl/home
Casa Silva2011Microterrior de Los LinguesColchaguaCarmenereRed98Fantastic representation of Chilean carmenere at its best. Complex barrel spices, oak, vanilla. Complex concentrated dark fruit, blackberry, cassis, pepper. Wiff of peppers like jalapeños and tomato leaf. Well aged. Casa Silva does it again.CS10/19/19https://www.casasilva.cl/home
Casa Silva2017Romano Viñedo OriginalColchaguaCesar NoirRed93Earthy with slight tobacco notes. Rare grape for Chile. Raspberry, cherry on the palate and slightly chocolatey on the finish.CS4/10/20https://www.casasilva.cl/
Casa Silva2019Cool CoastColchaguaSauvignon GrisWhite93Citric, lemon, mango. Slightly grassy and balanced acidity. Great alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. Under-the-radar find.CS4/29/20https://www.casasilva.cl/home
Casa Silva2020Lago Ranco FutronoRieslingWhite91some petrol on the nose. Some floral. The palate has a nice balance of ripe fruit and typical Riesling acidity. Maybe there's not as much depth and midpalate as top end Riesling, but the balance is there.AC4/9/22https://www.casasilva.cl/
Casa Silva2018S38Colchagua Los LinguesCabernet S.Red9280% aged in French oak barrels for 12 months but they don’t specify how much was new. Definitely more ripe fruit than the Bordeaux but less ripe than the Napa, with some typical Chilean herbal, eucalyptus notes and milder oak notes than the Bordeaux. Less tannic than the other two. Cassis. Some dark cherry fruit too. Some menthol. I like this because it manages to be between the Napa and Bordeaux in terms of ripeness. There's less oak and tannin, higher acid. You just have to appreciate the pyrazine aspects of Central Valley Chilean Cabernet and Carmenere, but it’s less prominent with this wine compared to average reds from the region.AC3/20/24https://www.casasilva.cl/
Casa Sur2019LilithItataPaisRed91floral nose but more of a white wine floral. Savory herbs and earthy. Elegant yet with more structure than most Pais.AC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/vinacasasur/
Casa Sur2018Lilith ItataCinsaultRed89Sort of a simpler, lighter version of their 2019 PaisAC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/vinacasasur/
Casa Sur 2016Lilith ReservaCuricoCarmenereRed90Nice freshness for a Carmenere. Some Carmenere herbal notes. Rich dark fruit.AC11/23/18 https://www.facebook.com/vinacasasur/
Casablanca2018Cefiro Cool ReserveCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite88Screw cap. What you expect from Chilean Sauvignon Blanc with herbal and salinic minerality. Palate of melon, a touch of citrus, minerality and something sort of spicy, mild jalapeno like. I'd like a little more acidity though. Otherwise a solid typical Sauvignon Blanc from Casablanca to go with seafood.AC11/21/20https://casablancawinery.com/en/
Casalibre2018Siete PerrosMaipoCabernet S.Red91No oak aging. Red fruit and floral, herbal. Some tannic structure. Pure Cabernet without wood.AC9/1/19https://www.casalibre.cl/
Casalibre2015MinimoColchaguaMalbec, Carmene, SyrahRed8920 months barrel age. Complex. Fruit forward. Black pepper on the nose with red fruits. Medium tannins. Slightly earthy on the palate.CS9/4/19https://www.casalibre.cl/
Casalibre2018Siete PerrosMaipoCabernet s.Red88Easy drinking cabernet. Medium intensity, tannic, dark fruit. Wiff of caramel.CS9/1/19https://www.casalibre.cl/
Casas de Bucalemu2017Fosiles Rocas de Santo DomingoSan AntonioPinot NoirRed90Floral, earth, minerality. Fairly elegant. Served a bit too cold.AC4/14/19http://www.casasdebucalemu.cl/
Casas de Bucalemu2013Valle de SantoSan AntonioRieslingWhite87Tropical, pineappleish, honey, touch of minerality.CS9/2/19http://www.casasdebucalemu.cl/
Casas de Bucalemu2018Salinas Rocas de Santo DomingoLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90Compared to the Talinay next to it, rounder, less acid and less green notes and more tropical fruit notes. However, it still fits the overall Chilean coastal Sauvignon Blanc style and quality.AC4/9/22https://www.instagram.com/casasdebucalemu/?hl=en
Casas de Bucalemu2021SalinasLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite92Some green notes and spice to go along with lots of grapefruit acidity. A step up in intensity than most.AC3/16/24https://www.instagram.com/casasdebucalemu/?hl=en
Casas de Bucalemu2021Fosiles San AntonioPinot NoirRed91pretty nose, red fruit, floral with minerality and spice with.similar notes on the palate but richer, darker on the palate than nose. Some tannins. Medium acid.AC3/16/24https://www.instagram.com/casasdebucalemu/?hl=en
Casas de Bucalemu2013NaturalLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90shows darkened color to aging. You get the natural yeasty notes and some oxididative notes on the palate especially. Reduced acid. More sweetness. Still some salinity and spice with vegetal notes. Just a more advanced version of their other SB but with native yeasts. You have to like aged whites/sherry. Generally don't get this sweet side out of an non late harvest SB.AC3/16/24https://www.instagram.com/casasdebucalemu/?hl=en
Casas del Bosque2015Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed85Too oaky, slightly overripe, stewed, spice. A little synthetic candy like. A little more integrated the second day, but rather dark and spicy for a Pinot. AC1/1/18https://www.casasdelbosque.cl/en/
Casas del Bosque2019Noble Late HarvestCasablancaRieslingDessert91Nose of apricot, peache, honey, citrus and a bit of spice. The palate has a lovely texture with similar notes. Stays fresh despite all this almost syrupy decadent feel. Probably the best late harvest wine I’ve had in Chile. Most in Chile are made with Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and/or Moscatel without boytritis. Therefore, you don’t get the same thickness and sweetness that this one has. At the same time, this stays so fresh with its acidity, so it never feels cloying. I’ve certainly had more complex late harvest wines from Sauternes, but this has great balance and would serve as a nice bargain proxy for Sauternes or late harvest German Rieslings.AC1/4/21https://www.casasdelbosque.cl/en/
Casas del Bosque2020Botanic SeriesCasablancaRieslingWhite88a pleasant, easy drinking Riesling. Shy nose and not the most complex or expressive overall, but light, dry and fresh on the palate with a bit of minerality on the nose. Citrus. Fine for sushi, salad, etc.AC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del Bosque2022Botanic Series La CanteraCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite88some herbal notes on the nose, but overall a fruitier Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, slightly lower acid. A good introduction to Sauvignon Blanc without the high acid and strong green notes that some have which might turn people off, but enough to know its SBAC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del Bosque2022RoseCasablancaPinot NoirRose86mute nose, simple palate. Rather generic rosé. Normally I prefer Pinot Rosés to have more Pinot characteristics. Maybe needs time to open up some.AC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del Bosque2020Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed89pretty floral nose. Palate and color on the darker side for Pinot. Lower acid, but it's fruity with a little spice, licorice. A touch of heat too.AC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del Bosque2019Private Reserve La TrampaCasablancaBlendRed92Blend of mostly Syrah with Malbec and Pinot Noir. 18 months in French oak. Ripe dark fruit and a bit of chocolate and floral notes on the nose. Round and smooth palate with similar notes to the nose with some vanilla. A fairly modern styled Syrah/Malbec, but not over the top. Not sure what the bit of Pinot does. Maybe the floral notes but you can get that from lighter Chilean Malbec and Syrah too.AC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del BosqueNVBoCasablancaBlendSparkling89About two thirds Chardonnay and one third Pinot. 19 months on lies. Bready nose. Dry palate with good acidity. Aftertaste a bit short and lower in bubbles than Champagne or even the Chilean Tatie espumante, but definitely not on the overly sweet side compared to other Chilean espumante.AC11/1/22https://casasdelbosque.cl/es/
Casas del Bosque2017ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Nice pinot for the price on a budget. Cherry notes. There is a pronounced barrel/oak aroma and flavor. Perhaps too much.CS11/15/19https://www.casasdelbosque.cl/en/
Casas del Toqui2021Barrel Series ReservaCachapoalSemillonWhite8970 year old vines. The oakiest of all the Semillon tasted and also the only one with obvious lactic notes. Toasty, savory spice and salted butter. Medium-light bodied with plenty of citrusy acid and white fruit. Something more generic and not obviously Semillon, and a little too much oak influence for me personally, but it’s not over the top and there’s it’s still good acidity although the finish is shorter than the rest. Still an excellent value at $5AC6/18/23https://www.casasdeltoqui.cl/
Casas Patronales2016Maucho ReservaMauleCarignanRed87Nice nose. Ripe dark fruit. Sweet spice and herbs. But the palate is much riper, darker and low in acid than most Maule carignan. A touch too sweet. AC3/7/20https://www.casaspatronales.com/
Casas Patronales2015Maucho ReservaMauleViognierWhite86Wine was aged sur lies for ten months in French oak. No malolactic fermentation. Golden color. Oaky nose, but underneath there is a touch of floral and fruit notes, but it’s mostly oaky and savory on the nose. The palate is thick and oily in feel also with oak and vanilla notes with pear fruit. Low acid. This may be past its prime or needs more air because it lacks fruit at the moment. I like the feel, but right now there’s not enough fruit to counteract the oak.AC8/10/21https://www.casaspatronales.com/
Casas Patronales2016ReservaMauleCarignanRed96Constantly delicious. Under-priced with notes of clove, cassis, vanilla with a slight minerally aftertaste.CS3/9/20https://www.casaspatronales.com/
Casas Patronales2011Late HarvestMauleRiesling, sauvignon blancDessert86Simple and average dessert wine. Big notes of honey. Slight citrus and apple. A decent intro to sweet wines.CS1/25/20https://www.casaspatronales.com/
Catrala2018Grand ReserveCasablancaMerlotRed91The nose is a mix of red and dark plums with a dried fruit quality that reminds me of aged Bordeaux despite it being only 4 years old. There’s also a spicy, smoky side to the nose. The palate is medium-bodied and well-balanced. Good acidity. Fruity at first, but there’s also a lingering salinity. There’s more acidity than an average Chilean Merlot and a little more complexity and body than some.AC12/1/21https://www.catrala.cl/
Cavallieri Badilla2018T3RZOMallecoPinot NoirRed91Typical ripe dark berry fruited Malleco Pinot with some smokiness, but it maintains its balance with decent acidity and tannic structure. Overall, quite big and creamy on the palate with a touch of oak and minerality. Pinot planted on clay soils in Los Sauces, some whole clusters used, mixed used oak & concrete aging. 91+AC10/6/21https://www.instagram.com/t3rzo_malleco/?hl=en
Cavas del Valle2020Roca Negra Cuatro CepasElquiBlendRedvineyards are 1,000m high. Mostly Syrah with some Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet S. Ripe, soft and spicy on the backend. Ripe and plummy but just avoids being pruny. Low acid. Balanced alcohol. Not much oak influence if any.AC11/25/23https://www.cavasdelvalle.cl/
Cepas Wine2020Bahia CorsariosMaipoBlendWhite9270 Sauvignon Blanc, 30 Viognier - super clear color. Floral noted but also tropical and herbal savory notes but with more body than a straight SB. High acid of SB but more body and floral notes of Vionier. Good combination of the strengths of each with much of the green notes in SB.AC4/6/24https://www.facebook.com/CepasWinesCL/
Cepas Wine2020CWMauleCarignanRed90Mostly from San Javier with 15% sourced from the coast of Maule. Shy nose, but a bit too cold. Some dark cherry and herbal notes. The palate is rather typical but a little darker, riper red fruit than some but still good acid with balsamic notes. Moderate tannins but could pass with food and more air. 12 months in barrel. They have several labels: CW, El Sauce, La Estancia
AC4/6/24https://www.facebook.com/CepasWinesCL/
Chadwick2009Puente Alto Maipo Cabernet S.Red90Blind tasted. Color is dark, opaque. Smells old with dried fruit, tobacco and tertiary notes emerging. Quite silky on the palate, but there’s a bit of heat on the back-end. Licorice. Medium-low acid, but there’s a streak of acid that keeps it just fresh enough. Ultimately, there’s not enough verve at this point and too much oak. I’m not sure if this was decanted too long and it lost its fruit intensity or if it’s an inbetween stage as tertiary notes start to emerge and the oak integrates more. Maybe it wasn’t stored well. I was surprised this was Chile’s most expensive and highly rated wine. Made during a time when Robert Parker dominated wine reviews and it was particularly a hot, weaker vintage, so that could explain the seemingly excess of oak and limited fruit too. 93% new oak was used for 22 months. Nowadays it’s around 75-80%.AC6/14/23https://vinedochadwick.cl/
Chile DiVino2018CorazonAlmahue CachapoalBlendRed91Corazon is a blend of 42% Carmenere, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Petit Verdot and aged 14 months in new French oak. The nose is dominated by vanilla oak and ripe red fruit, but some herbal and spice notes also appear in the background. The palate is a little warm and features cherry/raspberry fruit with good acidity, some camphor and medium-soft tannins. I would prefer a little less new oak, but it’s not overwhelming and others may prefer it. It could also use some aging since it’s less than 3 years old. There’s a lot of power on the palate which could use some softening up. 91+AC2/2/21https://www.chiledivino.cl/
Chillan2018Vida LocaItataBlendDessert87a semi-sweet late harvest pink colored wine made with mostly Sauvignon Blanc and some Merlot. It’s fruity, soft and creamy in textureAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Chillan2016Gran ReservaItataPinot NoirRed88ripe dark Cherry, wood, spice. Simple noseAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Chillan2018Gran ReservaItataCarmenereRed88fruity wine. Dark berries. Darker in color and flavor than most. Some heat, but good acid. Medium tannic structure, but bigger than most. A little overripe for me. Some wood spiceAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Chillan2018ItataCarmenereWhite88This is the only white Carmenere I’ve ever seen or tried in Chile. It spends 6-12 months in 2nd use oak. No Malolactic. Nose of peach, touch of herbal notes, citrus … more tropical than most Chilean whites with some pineapple. Oily texture, full for white wine. Touch of heat. Low acid, low tanninAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Chillan2018NaturistaItataSauvignon BlancWhite89Uses more natural wine methods, e.g. unfiltered. Cloudy gold color. Interesting herbal and earthy nose with peach fruit. Low acid for a Sauvignon BlancAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Chillan2018ReservaItataSauvignon BlancWhite88Clear light color. Some savory herbal notes. Fruitier than the Naturista, but not as interesting. Also low acid for Sauvignon BlancAC2/6/21https://lafavola.cl/
Choapa2017Cordilleramar ManquehuaChoapaSyrahRed89Ripe nose. Some spice, pepper. Lighter style Syrah like many Syrahs here. AC9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/en/
Choapa2017Grabados del Choapa Venus AncestralChoapaSyrahRed88Simpler and more primary than the Cordilleramar Manquehua. Fruit driven Syrah. AC9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/en/
Choapa2018Grabados del Choapa El IluminadoChoapaMoscatel de AlejandriaWhite88In Chile and Argentina, Moscatel de Alejandria can also be called Uva de Italia. A bit reductive at first. Citrusy grapefruit, minerally and a touch floral. A bit of fiz. A bit spicy. Some bitterness on the back-end but it goes away.AC3/9/22https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Grabados del Choapa Guardian NocturnoChoapaMoscatel de AustriaWhite88In Argentina, this is called Torrontés Sanjuanino, which is a cross between Pais and Moscatel de Alejandria. Drinking the Moscatel de Alejandria of the same producer next to it, this one is a bit rounder, fuller, a little less acidic and more salinic and floral, but it’s still light and fresh. It’s also a bit fizzy.AC3/9/22https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018CordilleramarChoapaCabernet francRed92Nice find. Concentrated dark fruit with structure and lingering acidity. Good food pairing wine for heavy red meats.CS2/17/20https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Grabados del ChoapaChoapaMoscatel de AlexandriaWhite91Creamy. Aromatic. Fruit forward, touch of sweetness.CS9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Grabados del ChoapaChoapaMoscatel de AustriaWhite90Normally used in Chilean pisco. Nice interesting find. Good alternative white. Minerality.CS9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018CordilleramarChoapaPedro XimenezWhite92Lovely find. Green apple, honey, some minerality. Slightly herbal, asperagus.CS9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Grabados del ChoapaChoapaPedro XimenezWhite90Aromas of tropical fruit, medium acidity. Wiff of pineapple.CS9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2017Grabados del ChoapaChoapaSyrahRed80Simple drinker. Short finish. Dark wine. Leather notes and olive.CS9/4/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2017CordilleramarChoapaSyrahRed92Dark fruit with licorice. Dark violet in color and well balanced.CS9/1/19https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Grabados del Choapa Chaman del CerroChoapaPedro JimenezWhite89Screw cap. Some reduction, Some Savory hernal notes. Ripe fruity palate. A little raisiny.AC4/22/23https://choapawines.cl/
Choapa2018Cordilleramar MallacunChoapaPedro JimenezWhite91More concentrated versión than the Grabados with lower yields. More floral. More elegant. More intensity.AC4/22/23https://choapawines.cl/
Chocalan2017Origen Gran ReservaMaipoCarmenereRed88Typical solid Chilean Carmenere with some herbal notes, minerality, dark berry fruit, baking spice. Some licorice and coffee. Round. Good for the price at 7 dollars. AC8/10/18https://chocalanwines.com/web/
Clos Apalta2018Le Petit ClosApalta, ColchaguaBlendRed9253% Carmenere, 32% Cabernet Sauvingnon, 12% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot; 7, 456 cases made. 6 months in new French oak. Then 16 months in 21% new French oak, the rest 2nd use. Get the Carmenere/Chilean savory herbal/vegetal notes, but it’s not at all green. It’s nicely integrated with the ripe dark and red fruit. There are some spicy and chocolate notes from the oak, but also well-integrated. Plenty of tannins to go at least 10 years. Nice balance of fruit and savory notes along with acidity to keep it fresh. In fact, I like the balance here more than the main wines because you feel the acidity a little more (despite the technical acidity being more or less the same), but obviously this doesn’t have the length and intensity of the mainw wines. 92+AC10/10/21https://www.closapalta.com/
Clos Apalta2012Apalta, ColchaguaBlendRed9566% Carmenere, 19% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. A warm year. Still uses pre-phylloxera vines planted in 1920. Biodynamic and organic. Native yeast fermentation in small oak vats. 100% new French oak barrels for 24 months. Not fined, cold stabilized or filtered. 5,084 cases made. A bit of bricking on the edges showing its age compared to the 2017. Nose of savoury Carmenere herbal notes and smoked pepper, mint, ripe dark fruit and some emerging tertiary notes of mushrooms and earth. The palate is of course smoother than the 2017, but there are still plenty of tannins to resolve and still more than the 2018 Petit Clos tasted beside it. It’s a little more savoury overall than the 2017 too which could be due to the age but also more Carmenere and less Merlot in the blend even though both were hot vintages. 95+AC10/10/21https://www.closapalta.com/
Clos Apalta2017Apalta, ColchaguaBlendRed9448% Carmenere, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot. Biodynamic and organic. 8,230 cases made. Fermentation in 82% oak vats and 18% French oak barrels. 27 months in French oak barrels (85% new, 15% second use). Nor filtered, cold stabilized or fined. They said on the tour that the different varietals (plus different vineyards of Carmenere) are vinified separately and aged 12 months in French oak barrels before the blend is decided and then they are blended in stainless steel and put back in French oak barrels for 12+ months longer. Obvious step up in length, power and tannins compared to the 2018 Le Peit Clos and even more obvious Camenere pyrazines but it’s still in a delicious cooked peppers way. Also more voluptuous and ripe on the palate than the Petit Clos along with spice and savory notes. Yet it maintains a silky elegant palate. A little riper than the 2012, but still similar in style, just more tannic given the youth. 94+AC10/10/21https://www.closapalta.com/
Clos de Fous 2018 Pour ma GueuleItataRieslingWhite90Petrol with a touch of floral notes. palate more about fruit with plenty of acid. AC12/7/24http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos de Luz2016Massal 1945Almahue RapelCarmenereRed90Made from vines planted in 1945. Still young and tight. Nose has minerality, tomato leaf, dark cherry and plum. No hard edges. Chalky tannins. Needs more time. AC10/15/18http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017Massal 1945RapelCabernet S.Red89Hightone fresh fruit, moderate tannins, solid cab. AC8/30/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017Massal 1945RapelCarmenereRed89bell pepper and dark fruit, but fresh.AC8/30/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017AraoRapel, AlmahueCarmenereRed89Very bell pepper on the nose and palate. Other some ripe dark fruit and decent acidity. AC2/14/20http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2018Massal 1945CachapoalCabernet S.Red9185% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Carmenere. 80-year-old dry-farmed organic vines from the famous Clos Apalta vineyard. Good balance of ripe dark berry fruit with typical Chilean herbal notes which fade and integrate. A little fresher and more elegant than most in this price range though and that’s the nature of the vintage. Great balance and freshness. Medium+ bodied.AC4/30/21https://www.closdeluz.com/?lang=en
Clos de Luz2017AraoCachapoalCarmenereRed90Surprising find. Blackberry, oak, chocolate. Had a welcoming earthy characteristic.CS2/14/20http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017AraoCachapoalCarmenereRed88Next tier down from the Massal 1945 line. Hard for a side-by-side as there is a clear winner. More blackberry notes, slight tobacco and herbal. CS11/8/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017Azuda Block 8 Hillside VineyardsCentralSyrahRed92More intense than expected. Robust, concentrated. Pepper aroma, plum, blueberry and cola.CS11/8/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017Massal 1945ColchaguaCabernet S.Red92Balanced and powerful cabernet. Nice usage of oak with classic barrel notes. Fruity bouquet and not over done. Slightly less complex than the 2016, but still a 90+.CS11/8/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2016Massal 1945ColchaguaCabernet S.Red93Engaging cabernet. Chile at the top. Great representation of what a cabernet should be with complexity that makes you think.CS1/30/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2017Massal 1945ColchaguaCarmenereRed95After trying this on four different occasions, each time it has been rated 90+. Excellent quality wine. Powerful for a carmenere, sufficient tannic struture, vanilla and all-spice notes with a touch of smoke.CS2/14/20http://www.closdeluz.com/?lang=es
Clos de Luz2017Massal 1945ColchaguaCarmenereRed94Complex bouquet. Powerful for a carmenere. Not overly oaked. Notes of oak and all spice. Slight vanilla with a smokey characteristic. Earthy. Dark fruit.CS11/8/19http://www.closdeluz.com/
Clos de Luz2020AzudaRapelGarnachaRed92– 100% Garnacha. Native yeasts. Mix of used oak, stainless steel and concrete aging. Nose of ripe red fruit, a touch of dried hernal notes. The palate is quite tart for a Garnacha with red fruit, spice and savory notes. Verges towards Chilean Carignan with its acidity, which I like, but others may want to wait a couple of years for it to calm down.AC1/13/23https://closdeluz.com/es/
Clos de Luz2019Massal 1945CachapoalMalbecRed90100% Malbec. This is a new cuvee for them. Before, I had only tried their Carmenere and Cabernet S. Aged in used oak. Ripe dark berry with chocolate on the nose. The palate has medium+ acidity and body with dark berry fruit and spice.AC1/13/23https://closdeluz.com/es/
Clos des Fous2015SubsollumAconcagua, ItataPinot NoirRed90Earthy, herby, red fruit, good acdity, but rather alcoholic for a Chilean Pinot. Clos des Fous was founded in 2008 by terroir expert Pedro Parra, barrel expert Francois Massoc, Paco Leyton and Albert Cussen. AC1/30/18http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2015ArenariaAconcagua, PucalanPinot NoirRed89+A bit too much alcohol. Spice. Oak. Chocolate and vanilla. Still fresh. A bit disjointed but it has the stuffing to improve. AC8/10/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2013WurmCachapoalCabernet S.Red92Bright red fruit and herbaceous notes on the nose. Some tomato leaf. Mild oak. Palate is rich and modern in style, but balanced and easy to like. Drank this next to a 2014 Chateau Meyney St. Estephe which had more minerality and acidity, more tannins, so it had more potential to improve, but still not all that different from each other at the moment.AC11/9/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2014Grillos CantoresCachapoalCabernet S.Red91Savoury herbal notes, but not green. Graphite. Ripe dark and red cassis. Touch of camphor. Good acid. No hard edges. Very Cab but not necessarily Chilean. More Bordeaux like. Only around 2,500 cases made.AC5/5/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2015CauqueninaCauquenes, MauleBlendRed9133 Carignan, 22 Pais, 12 Portugais Bleu, 12 Petite Sirah, 10 Syrah. 6 Malbec, 5 Cinsault. Very Italian balsamic herby nose. Palate darker fruit, citrus, minerality, spice. Old bush vines. Good proxy for a rustic Chianti. AC5/26/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2015Pour Ma GueuleItataPinot NoirRed90Ripe high tone red fruit with baking spice, a little earthy. Medium acid red fruit palate, but quite full, alcoholic, sweet and ripe. Feels more like Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez Pinot, with a modern style. AC5/30/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2012LatuffaMallecoPinot NoirRed90A little oak, caramel thicker and more modern, less acid than the average Chilean pinot. Blueberry fruit. Later red licorice, spice and liquor like. Only 140 cases made. Doesn't feel Pinot. AC8/10/19http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2015Cauquenina Gran ReservaMaule, ItataBlendRed90Carignan 33%, Pais 22%, Portugais Bleu 12%, Petite Sirah 12%, Syrah 10%, Malbec 6%, Cinsault 5%. Nose is ripe and bright with some spice and wood. Palate has a burst of dark red fruit and good acidity. A little oak on the back end. I prefered this better the first time I had it.AC3/20/20http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2013CauqueninaMaule, ItataCarignan blendRed91Carignan, Syrah, Malbec, País, Carmenère and Portugais Bleu. Nice nose. Dark red berry with earthy garrigue, floral. Baking spice. Savoury and sweet. Dark fruit palate but fresh. Minty. Some tannic structure for aging. No oak aging at all. Rhone or southern France like. AC5/21/18http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2014Grillos CantoresCachapoalCabernet S.Red 90Had this wine 2 years ago and it has matured a lot. The nose has more dried fruit qualities, both dark and red fruit. There’s chocolate, caramel and sweet balsamic notes. The palate is smoother and a little darker this time with spice, licorice and medium acidity. Bottom line, secondary and tertiary notes dominate more than the primary notes compared to last time.AC5/30/21http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2018Locura 1LimariChardonnayWhite92Although Clos des Fous used to be a project between Francois Massoc, Pedro Parra, Albert Cussen and Paco Leyton, I was told that it’s now run just by Paco Leyton. This used to be made in Alto Cachapoal, but now they source from Limari and its calcareous soils (limestone/chalk) kind of like in Chablis. Native yeasts. Made and kept in stainless steel tanks for 12 months on its lees. No malolactic fermentation. This had the best nose: Floral, fruity and fresh. The palate has acidity and some minerality. This is the one I would have guessed was Chablis with its freshness, purity, lack of oak and minerality. For others, this was the wine of the night.AC11/12/21https://www.facebook.com/closdesfous/
Clos des Fous2017Locura 2ItataChardonnayWhite91– some spicy minerality, yeasty notes, medium acid and body. Some savory oak notes.AC10/1/22http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2020Locura 1Malleco, TraiguenChardonnayWhite92some oak, vanilla, honey, spice. Higher acid than the Locura 2. Some tannic structure at this young age. Good length. 92+AC10/1/22http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos des Fous2018LatuffaMalleco, TraiguenPinot NoirRed92savory spice and floral on the nose. The palate is also a mix of floral fruit notes, good acidity and savory notes. 92+ Has potential to gain more complexity.AC10/1/22http://www.closdesfous.com/?lang=en
Clos Santa AnaNVVeloColchaguaBlendOrange93A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling using the Solera system like with Sherry. This means its vinified and aged in not completely filled neutral containers allowing a velo de flor (a thin film of yeast) to grow. The label says “different vintages 2017,” which I think means it contains different vintages up to when it was bottled in 2017. The color Is light orange and clear with touch of cloudiness. I like the aromatics. There’s fruit mixed with nutty and earthy notes. Sort of reminds me of aged red wine. I don’t get much at all of the orange wine characteristics other than it having a bit of soft tannic grip. The velo de flor shows in mild sherry and oxidized wine notes, but this is also fairly mild. It’s really tangy with citrus and dry citrus peel notes. It’s only medium-light bodied at most, so it’s easy to drink and food friendly with its acidity without being too natural wine/orange/velo de flor-ish. It’s still not for beginners necessarily, but nobody is going to complain if served this either. There’s enough fruit. Wine geeks and natural wine lovers should pounce on it. Just unique overall.AC12/5/24https://vinaclossantaana.wixsite.com/colchagua
Colectivo Mutante2019PX#1LimariPedro XimenezWhiteSavory, herbal nose. Simple, low acid apple/pear on the palate.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Colectivo-mutante-1237801336292126/
Colectivo MutanteNVLimariPedro XimenezWhiteFrom 2-3 different vintages. Hence different time in barrels of mixed age. Get caramel, toasted wood. Low acid. Fuller on the palate than the regular PX.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Colectivo-mutante-1237801336292126/
Colectivo Mutante?LimariBlendRose- blend of PX with a little Malbec. Reminds me of their regular PX infused with berry fruits.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Colectivo-mutante-1237801336292126/
Colectivo Mutante2020InvasionAconcaguaPinot NoirRedAconcagua Costa -Natural wine profile. Savory, earthy nose. Tangy strawberry palate.AC11/6/21https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Colectivo-mutante-1237801336292126/
Concha y Tora2017Casillero del Diablo ReservaCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red86Rustic. A bit of heat. Simple fruit driven. Short. AC11/9/18https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2017Casillero del DiabloCasablancaPinot NoirRed87Better integrated than the last time I had this wine. Nose still rather mute. Bright red fruit. Not the most elegant. Some oak and heat. Feels more modern Rhone like.AC11/4/19https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2017?Casillero de DiabloCasablancaPinot NoirRed85Too oaky. Dark berry fruit. Some spicy and toasty notes. Savoury back-end. Modern styled cheap Pinot. Not enough fruit to cover all that oak. AC3/13/19https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2016Casillero del DiabloCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red86Not profound or long, a bit too much oak, but fresh red fruit profile with some spice makes it pleasantAC8/3/17https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2017Casillero del DiabloCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red88Ripe fruity easy international style with a touch of vanilla. No hard edges.AC11/9/19https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2016Marques de Casa ConchaMaipoCabernet S.Red91From Puente Alto and Pirque vineyards. Savoury herbs, plum, dark cherry, licorice. No hard edges. Medium-low acid. A little more international than an average Chilean cab. AC11/20/18https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2011Don MelchorPuente Alto MaipoCabernet S.Red92Balanced, cool fruit, more restrained compared to other New World wines in this range, but not outstanding. 92+AC9/7/16http://www.donmelchor.com/en/home/
Concha y Toro2018Marques de Casa ConchaMaipoCabernet S.Red90Very international style. Ripe nose with vanilla and spice. The Chilean dried herbal notes eventually do show up but in the background. The palate is smooth and creamy with ripe fruit. Some camphor. However, it has the elegance and balance of the 2018 vintage.AC5/4/21https://conchaytoro.com/
Concha y Toro2019Marques de Casa ConchaMaipoCabernet S.Red90ripe dark fruit, touch of roasted pepper, cedar and coffee on the nose. Carries through on the palate with spice and medium+ acidity.AC5/22/22https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2015TrioCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot GrigioWhite86Fruity with medium body. Nothing complex but a patio wine on a hot day.CS4/12/16https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2015TrioCasablanca, Rapel, San AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite82Similar to drinking a liquid bell pepper. Off balanced while still acidic.
CS4/12/16https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro2018ReservaCentral ValleyMerlotRed84Immediate notes of oak wood almost like bark. Heavy influence of very mature plums. Whiff of vanilla from the barrels and a slight, earthy characteristic with juicy blackberries. Slightly sweet. Short finish, not overly complexCS5/30/20https://conchaytoro.com/
Concha y Toro2014TrioRapelMerlot, Carmenere, SyrahRed86Good patio wine or your second bottle of the night. Simple, nothing complex.CS4/12/16https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Concha y Toro1982Casillero del DiabloPirque MaipoCabernet S.Red91this showed well. Still enough fruit and acidity to make us think this was the one from the 90's. The color looked 30+ years old and you get some tertiary notes but less secondary notes than from Bordeaux, but the fruit and acid made it feel younger. There was some sediment so probably not upright long enough. On the second day the overall potency started to fade but still the same balance.AC4/9/22https://conchaytoro.com/
Concha y Toro
2014TrioRapelCabernet S., Cabernet Franc, SyrahRed85Fruit forward. Out of equilibrium however no faults detected.CS4/12/16https://conchaytoro.com/en/
Cono Sur201620 Barrels Limited EditionCasablancaPinot NoirRed92Took a little while to open up, but it started to strut its ripe red and dark berry fruit, savoury herbal notes. Follows through on to the palate. Has lovely texture. Staying weightless while full of flavor. I think they take some grapes from San Antonio too. AC12/5/19https://www.conosur.com/en/home/
Cono Sur2018Bicicleta Reserva Central ValleyCarmenereRed85A little herbaceous. Fresh. Simple, but too oaky and too hot without food.AC11/9/19https://www.conosur.com/en/home/
Cono Sur2016Viento Mar Single Vineyard Block 21San AntonioPinot NoirRed91Bright red fruit, a little dirt spice and minerality on the nose. Palate has tangy red fruit with some salinity and grapefruit like citrus. A Fresh Pinot with some complexity. 50% New French oak used. AC6/10/19https://www.conosur.com/en/home/
Cono Sur201820 Barrels Limited EditionPeumo CachapoalCarmenereRed91This comes from the same vineyard, planted in the 80’s, where Concha y Toro sources their top Carmenere Carmin de Peumo. 16 months in barrels. Plenty of fruit here but also the typical pyrazine notes and spice on the nose. Round and smooth, but not super modern in terms of oak and extraction.some tannic structure for further aging though. Medium-low acid. Red and dark fruit. Easy to spot this as the new world wine and Chilean wine versus the San Leonardo Carmenere though. More oak, menthol and spice showing on the second day.AC4/9/22https://www.conosur.com/en/home/
Contrapelo2016ReservaMaipoBlendRed8975%CS 25% Syrah. Tobacco nose. Savoury herbs and spice. The savoury herbs dominate more than the fruit.AC9/1/19https://www.picuki.com/profile/contrapelo_wines
Contrapelo2014ReservaColchaguaSyrah, carmenereRed9565% syrah, 35% carmenereCS9/2/19https://www.picuki.com/profile/contrapelo_wines
Cooperative Loncomilla2021MagicoMauleDessertcomplete opposite of the Portal del Alto Syrah Late Harvest. Light strawberry pink clear color with a similar simple candied berry fruit.AC4/9/22https://cooploncomilla.cl/
Copa2021ItataTorontelWhite92– Make less than 3,000 bottles per cuvee. Itata. Closer to the coast. Dry-farmed. They source their grapes from local farmers they trust and have a relationship with. They don’t have their own vineyard. (Torontes Riojano) Nose of white floral notes, citrus, pear. Super fresh, vibrant and citrusy on the palate. No wood at all. AC9/10/22https://www.instagram.com/vinoscopa/
Copa2021ItataTorontelWhite912,815 bottles made. Dry-farmed. No wood. Chilean winemaker married to an Argentinian. This is Torrontes Riojano, what you typically get from Argentina. very different experience from when I first tasted it without food. Then it was much more acidic, but with more acidic food, the white floral and white peach notes dominate and it's rounder on the palate.AC11/3/22https://www.instagram.com/vinoscopa/
Copa2019ItataCinsaultRed92Old rauli wood containers and concrete eggs for the fermentation and then 15 months in 4th use barrels. Red fruit. Good acidity. More body and tannins than most. Elegant style yet bigger than most from Itata.AC9/10/22https://www.instagram.com/vinoscopa/
Copa2019ItataPaisRed92Earthy nose with some rose petals. Chalky tannins. Manages to be more refined while still showing the terroir without being too rustic. They do filter their wines unlike many in the region.AC9/10/22https://www.instagram.com/vinoscopa/
Copa2021ItataSemillonWhite92Ripe fruity nose, a little citrus. Some bready notes too and oxidized, sherry notes. Medium body. Good acid. Some savory herbal notes on the back end. 2021 Copa Semillon Itata – 1 year and 2 months in mixed used and new larger barrels. Some velo de flor developed on some-> oxidatitive aspects. A unique Chilean white in many ways.AC11/4/22https://www.instagram.com/vinoscopa/
Corral Victoria2019HuasoMauleCarmenereRed86Not a lot on the nose, but there’s some ripe dark red fruit with a touch of savory herbal notes. The palate is simple and fruity-also dark red fruits-with a touch of coffee and spice. What I like about it is that it doesn’t try to overdo it with oak and ripeness. I like Carmenere when it veers towards red fruit and higher acidity. At the same time, it’s not obviously Carmenere because there’s not much pyrazine flavor. The bottle is in the shape of a Huaso, a Chilean cowboy. AC9/15/21https://www.facebook.com/RestaurantCorralVictoria/
Corral Victoria2012Sello de Raza Gran ReservaMauleCarmenereRed91It has dark fruit ripe nose with some spice and eventually some vegetal notes. On the palate quite fresh, dark fruit, a touch of oak. Still a good amount of tannins for aging. Although on the modern side, it's balanced with good acidity and the herbal notes. Sometimes Carmenere come off as Merlot like with an herbal twist but this comes off as new world Cabernet S. like with an herbal twist. Plenty of oak but it's well integrated.AC12/26/16https://www.facebook.com/RestaurantCorralVictoria/
Coteaux de Trumao2015CruchonValle del Bueno Los LagosPinot NoirRed88French producers in the northern part of Chilean Patagonia. Natural wine. Definitely not for those who like modern fruit driven wines. This definitely feels “natural wine” but it’s not generally a negative for me. The complex nose is dominated by an herbaceous nature with some underlying dark red berry fruit and a touch of earth. The palate also has a savory herbal component with high acid red fruit with a bit of chalkiness to it. Lacks substance on the mid-palate. A little more fruit and mid-palate would make this better for me, but it’s good with food. Feels sort of classic Loire Valley red to me. The appeal is the uniqueness of having a wine from Patagonia, because there aren’t many. However, the price is too much compared to more complete and cheaper Chilean Pinot Noir out there.AC7/2/20https://www.coteauxdetrumao.cl/
Cousino Macul2013Finis TerraeMaipoBlendRed92Was decanting all day in the tasting room at the property. Intense and fullness in the mouth, but silky, yet with plenty of gripping tannins for further aging. Bordeaux style. Blend of Cabernet S. and Merlot. Refined. About 25 dollars regular price here. 92+AC8/20/19https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2013Finis TerraeMaipoBlendRed9175% Cabernet S. 25% Merlot. Initially there’s a lot of dry savory herbal notes of sage and tobacco, caramel and smoky oak with a touch of plum fruit. It needs about an hour decanting to let some of that oak and herbal notes integrate and reveal more fruit. On the palate it’s silky smooth with dark cherry fruit some spice and vanilla. Medium acid. No hard edges. There are still some tannins that are fine with food, but it indicates at least a few more years of maturation. Although it’s definitely New World, this comes off more as modern Bordeaux rather than modern California or Australia. About 4,500 cases made. 91+AC6/21/20https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2012Finis TerraeMaipoCab blendRed9165% Cab, 35% Merlot. Nose makes me think Bordeaux. Dark berry and stone fruit. A little red fruit. Tobacco. Herbs. Velvety. Some structure. Minty. A little oak. Feels like a modern left bank Bordeaux. AC6/6/18https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2011Finis TerraeMaipoCabernet BlendRed90Balanced proper Bordeaux style, but a little more modern on the palate. AC3/7/15https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2017Don MatiasMaipoCabernet S.Red89Fruit driven. Red fruit. Herbal. Solid. AC8/20/19https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2015Don Matias ReservaMaipoMerlotRed87Round. Touch raisiny and hot. Lacks acidity. AC11/24/18https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2016IsidoraMaipoMerlotRosé89Juicy and fresh rose with minerality. AC8/20/19https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2016Don MatiasMaipoMerlotRed89Fruit driven. Mix of dark and red fruit. Some herbal notes. Some tannic structure despite their Don Matias range being around 8 bucks.AC8/20/19https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2015Don MatiasMaipoSyrahRed88Dark fruit. Some herbal notes. Easy drinking simple Syrah. AC8/20/19https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cousino Macul2013Late HarvestMaipoRieslingDessert91Smoky, nutty. Dried aprioct fruit. Reminds me some of aged Sauternes but don't get obvious botrytis.AC6/15/22https://www.cousinomacul.com/
Cousino Macul1981Don MatiasCabernet S.Red92Nose of dried dark fruit, tobacco, cedar, spice, tea. Palate is dried plummy, dark berries with spice. Still some tannins, still some acid. I really like the nose. Amazing that there’s still fruit and tannins on the palate. Perhaps not as elegant as a Bordeaux at this stage, but there’s similar complexity on the nose that reminds me of aged Medoc wines although less earthy than Bordeaux I’ve experienced which tend get more mushroomy at this age. Only good bottles at this age, so was lucky to have this bottle still going strong. AC11/4/22https://www.cousinomacul.com/
Cousino-Macul2017IsidoraMauleSauvignon GrisWhite88Screw top. 100% Suavignon Gris, which is some type of mutated clone of Sauvignon Blanc. It sometimes blended with Sauvignon Blanc even if not labled and makes up about 2% of Bordeaux whites, so it's not so common to have 100% Sauvignon Gris and this is the only one I've seen in Chile. The cutlings come from the Grave region of Bordeaux. To me, it's essentially a less aromatic, slightly sweeter and thicker version of a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. Some white peach, citrus and mineral notes. Light. Really not much different than a Sauvignon Blanc. AC2/13/20https://www.cousinomacul.com/en/
Cremaschi Furlotti2015Ediicion LimitadaMauleNebbioloRed88Chilean green pepper notes, herbal. Dark fruit and dark colored compared to Piedmont Nebbiolo in general and compared to the Barolo I was drinking next to it. Simple and fruit forward. Medium acid. Rather generic Chilean wine and not at all what one thinks of Nebbiolo if one's reference point is Piedmont, which is most people's reference point for Nebbiolo. The Barolo we had next to it was obviously lighter in color and fruit type but still more potent with a lot of leather and tobacco, orange peel. AC4/26/19http://www.cf.cl/en/
Curauma2018WeichafeAconcaguaSauvignon BlancWhite87Tropical, passion fruit, pineapple. Some lime on the palate. Acidic. Nice daily drinker.CS9/1/19http://www.curaumawines.cl/
Curauma2018WeichafeCasablancaChardonnayWhite90Ripe yellow apple. Citric fruits. Note of oak, slightly buttery with good acidity.CS9/4/19http://www.curaumawines.cl/
Curauma2015WeichafeCasablancaPinot NoirRed83Off balance. Very light. Basic red fruit, not gripping.CS9/1/19http://www.curaumawines.cl/
Cuvelier2015AtaneaCasablancaPinot NoirRed90It’s strange to think that Leoville Poyferre has a Pinot Noir in their portfolio, but Agricola Cuvelier is sort of the hippy Chilean version of Leoville Poyferre in Bordeaux and Cuvelier los Andes in Argentina. All their wines in Chile are organic/natural. Handpicked. Minimal irrigation. Native yeasts. No fining or filtering. No oak. From vines in Lo Orozco (near Vina Catrala ) and Lo Ovalle (near Loma Larga), two cooler áreas of Casablanca. 10,000 bottles produced. The color is dark for a Pinot and showing some age. The nose has notes of red berry fruit, smoky minerality and dried herbal notes. The palate has similar notes with sour cherry, and is a bit fuller in feel and more alcoholic at 14% than your average Casablanca Pinot, but it’s definitely in the range of Chilean Pinot or New Zealand Pinot overall in style.AC11/6/20http://www.agricolacuvelier.com/
Cuvelier2011del Maulee Cauquenes, MauleBlendRed90Mostly Cabernet S. and Carignan with some Pais, Cinsault, Carmenere, and merlot. Same owners as Leoville Poyferre in Bordeaux. Red fruit, fresh, minerality.AC10/8/17http://www.agricolacuvelier.com/
Cuvelier2011del Maulee Cauquenes, MauleBlendRed90($11-13) – Natural Wine. 42% CS, 32% Carignan, 8% Pais, 7% Carmenere, 7% Cinsault, 4% Merlot. I’ve had this before almost 3 years ago. It’s darker than last time. Last time it was more red fruit dominated. Now, there’s a mix of dark and red berry fruits on the nose and palate. There’s a rustic wild quality to this that gives it a bit of a stink-some minerality, spice, tobacco, cinammon and some licorice. Still fresh at 9 years old, but less acidic than 3 years ago. Rounder. Feels very Maule. It’s sort of Beaujolais and classic Rhone or Southern France mixed together. You wouldn’t think there was so much Cabernet Sauvignon in this-at least not a New World Cabernet. Old vine Cabernet and Carignan. Dry-farmed. The Carmenere, Carignan and Pais received carbonic maceration. It was aged in 4-5 year-old used oak. I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily better now or worse. If you like it fruitier, then perhaps you should drink up soon. Otherwise, it has at least a couple more years. If you're a Bordeaux lover, you might recognized the label since it's from the same family that owns Leoville Poyferre. AC6/14/20http://www.agricolacuvelier.com/
Cuvelier2014del MautataMaule, ItataBlendRed8833% CS, 20% Carignan, 17% Pais, 10% Carmenere, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. After having just revisited the 2011 of this the day before, I thought this 2014 would be similar to the 2011 I had 3 years prior. 2014 also includes fruit from Itata and not just Maule like the 2011. The blend is more or less the same. There’s definitely more acidity like the 2011 had 3 years ago, but overall this wine comes off very herbaceous and more “natural wine” than the 2011 even though both used natural wine practices. Even with the first pour, there’s some sediment. The nose is very herbaceous-like dried thyme and parsley with a little mint. The palate is high in acid, sort of like sour plum skins. There’s a lot of vegetal notes. I’m not really on one side of the natural wine debate. The 2011 aged well and was an excellent wine. However, the 2014 is not for people who like fruit forward modern wines. It’s definitely more of a food wine. It could still improve a bit if the acidity settles down and perhaps more fruit emerges. Nonetheless, you have to like high acid wines and vegetal notes, which I do, but I still need more fruit in the end.AC6/16/20http://www.agricolacuvelier.com/
Dagaz2017Tierras de PumanqueColchagua CostaBlendRed91Cabernet S. (71%) with Petit Verdot, Carmenere and Syrah. Dark fruity modern with just enough acid, earthiness and minerality to keep it from going over the top. Hefty tannins. Marco Puyo, who used to work for Los Vascos and San Pedro, is the winemaker/owener. About 3,500 bottles were made and only 9% new oak. Could still get better. 91+AC3/13/20http://www.dagazwines.com/en/home/
Dagaz2019ItatinoItataCinsaultRed90A relatively more expensive Cinsault from Itata and it definitely stands out. It's the darkest and most tannic Cinsault I've ever had. Ripe, fruity, some bushy earthy notes and minerality. Modern feel. Old bush vines grown on granite soils. AC3/13/20http://www.dagazwines.com/en/home/
Dagaz2017Tierras de PumanqueColchaguaCabernet S., syrahRed93Structured and powerful. Oak aging with notes of vanilla and nugmeg. Dark fruits with a spicy characteristic. CS3/13/20http://www.dagazwines.com/en/wines/
Dagaz2019ItatinoColchaguaCincaultRed91Light bodied with a beautiful color. Aromas of anise and raspberry with a blackberry finish and lingering acidity.CS3/13/20http://www.dagazwines.com/en/wines/
Dalbosco2015ReservaLimariSyrahRed88Nose with a touch of spice, herbs and florality. Dark fruit. Almost feels like there's some viognier in it, but I haven't found any confirmation of that, but the producer does make a viognier. Fruity. No hard edges. Easy and simple. Low acid. Like many Chilean syrah, it is lighter in style. They aren't going for Australian shiraz nor Northern Rhone. However, this is just an entry level 8 dollar wine, so one can't expect too much from it. AC2/17/20https://www.dalboscowines.com/inicio-eng
Dalbosco2017ReservaLimariCabernet S.Red91Pronounced dark fruit with notes of pepper. Even a slight note of clove.CS3/22/20
Dalbosco2014ReservaLimariSyrahRed95Nice acidity with a mixed dark fruit aroma. Nice tannins and well balanced. Delicious.CS5/8/20https://www.dalboscowines.com/
Dalbosco2014ReserveLimariSyrahRed95Heavily underrated wine for the price:quality ratio. Powerful and tannic. Fruit forward with cassis, raspberry and classic pepper.CS12/13/19https://www.dalboscowines.com/
David Giovani Giacomini2015Las RunasCasablancaCabernet S.Red89Fruity wine, smooth tannins, medium body,but dark color. Low acid. Some yeasty notes.AC9/18/23
De Aguirre Sol de Chile2013Gran ReservaMaule, Villa AlegreCabernet S., CarmenereRed86Fruit drive, simple smooth on the front end but some heat on the back end. AC11/30/19http://www.deaguirre.cl/en/#section1
De Martino2015Las CrucesCachapoalMalbec blendRed90Dark, grapey. Floral. Round and savoury on palate. 75% Malbec, 25% Carmenere. Well made. Just opened so it should start to open up more. 90+AC8/31/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015Viejas TinajasCoelemu ItataCinsaultRed90dusty red fruit, grape fruit, cranberry, earthy and floral. No hard edges. Amphorae aging. No wood aging. Feels old world. Different.AC1/15/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2016Viejas TinajasItataCinsaultRed88Herbaceous nose. Light and simple fresh palate. AC3/15/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2017GallardiaItataCinsaultRed89Beaujolais like on the nose. Earthy and floral. Palate rather rustic, dark, minerally. Some tannic structure. AC8/31/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2018Gallardia Old Vine WhiteItataMoscato, CorintoWhite85Too sweet. Ok acidity. Not much else. Moscato gives it a touch of fizziness. AC7/26/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2014Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed92Single vineyard. Burgundy like on the nose while the palate reminds me of a Margaux from Bordeaux. Ripe red fruit as opposed to dark fruit like many other Carmenere. Elegant. No obvious Chilean green notes. They are there but in a more integrated sweet earthy and herbal way. Balanced. It still has more to show with time. One of my favorite Chilean carmeneres. Costs about 25 dollars on sale here. 92+AC8/10/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed91Slowly opening up since the last time. Still rich dark plum fruit dominated with pepper and herbs. Still has underlying potential. No hard edges. AC7/5/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2016La CanchaMaipoCabernet S.Red88No new oak. Rather light for a Cabernet. Not much on the nose. Mouth feel is elegant. Dark cassis fruit. AC3/15/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed91Tight. Some typical Carmenere green pepper. Dark chocolate. Dark plums. Just enough acidity. Balanced, but austere today and just a darker style than I remember the 2014. 2015 was a warmer vintage. AC1/31/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed91Same as last time. Dark fruit. Still tight. AC2/25/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed92A little more open than the previous time. Herbaceous notes, but more of the savoury garrigue type. Dark fruit. Vanilla. Chocolate. Spice. Camphor. Softened up since the last time. I still prefer the 2014, but this is getting better. About 1,000 cases made. AC10/23/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2017Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed92Dark fruit. Garrigue. Green pepper. No hard edges with dark fruit, chalky minerality, mint and a streak of acidity. More elegant than the 2015. 92+AC12/23/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2017Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed92Always one of my favorite Carmeneres. It manages to keep the herbal characteristics of the varietal while having enough ripeness to not make it feel green. It also manages to stay elegant and fresh with some red fruit notes added to the dark fruits when many Carmeneres are darker, heavier and a bit flabby. It’s a Carmenere that leans more towards Bordeaux.AC12/28/20https://demartino.cl/en/home-en-resp/
De Martino2017Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed93Still youthful. Not so different than the last time I had this a few years ago, but it’s even silkier on the palate with a mix of red and dark fruit, medium acidity and body, licorice and perhaps milder/better integrated herbal pyrazine and spice notes than before. Still quite primary and ripe upfront with the herbal notes on the back-end. After 45 minutes of air, it becomes more savoury and secondary with tobacco and cedar notes.AC10/28/23https://demartino.cl/en/home-en-resp/
De Martino2018Alto de PiedrasMaipoCarmenereRed9211,460 750ml bottles made. This is more intense than the 2017. There’s more alcohol, more ripeness but also about the same acidity. It’s also spicier with smoky pepper notes, licorice, menthol, tomato leaf/herbs and floral notes. However, the 2017 was more evolved texturely, gliding on your palate and the 2018 exhibits a touch of heat from the 14% alcohol compared to the 13% of the 2017. Both have a savory and fruity side with better than average freshness for a Chilean Carmenere. Being a year younger and with only an hour of air, this should integrate better, but at the moment, the 2017 is drinking better. 92+AC11/1/23https://demartino.cl/en/home-en-resp/
De Martino2013VIGNOMauleCarignanRed94About 45 minutes breathing in glass. There’s a bit of Malbec, Cinsault, Carmenere, and Cabernet but it is around 85-90% Carignan. Almost 60 year old vines. Very similar to all the previous De Martino VIGNO I’ve had, just smoother of course with the age. The acidity has calmed down compared to the younger vintages I’ve had of this wine but it is still acidic and has vibrant red berry fruit on the palate with some spice and savoury notes, The nose is very nice and complex with ripe dark red fruit, sweet and savoury herbal notes, sort of a sweet tobacco, leather and at high intensity. This is aged in large oak containers. I think it’s in a good spot with tamed acidity and tannins while still being powerful on the nose and palate with some complexity. Always a big food wine like a meaty pasta or big steak. Only around 1,100 cases made.AC4/12/20https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015VignoMauleCarignanRed9385% Carignan with some Malbec and Cinsault. This used to be called La Aguada named after the vineyard, but now it's just Vigno. Nose reminded me of good Tuscan sangiovese. Herby. Minerality. High tone red fruit. Palate also quite Italian with cherry fruit and acidity. Some chalky tannins. Rich and full. Complex. AC12/23/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2015VIGNOMauleCarignanRed93Has settled down since the last time I had this. Less in your face acid, more integrated tannins. Smoother. Still very Italian with balsamic herbal notes. Dark cherry. Licorice. Balanced. Only 3,300 bottles made. AC8/8/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2016VIGNOMauleCarignanRed93Really lovely and potent nose. Complex. Pinot like earthiness but also Mediterranean herbs. Some minerality and sweet oak notes. Palate is high in acid as normal with some balsamic and mint notes. Savoury and sour as usually. Dark red fruits. Didn't quite have it with the best pairing and was served a bit too cold, so there is a lot more potential here as as it ages. Around 537 cases made. It's well worth 30 dollar price tag. 93+AC12/30/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2016VIGNOMauleCarignanRed93Second time having this wine with similar notes. However, this time it's less complex and powerful on the nose, but a lot more elegant, silky on the palate. If I could get the nose of the first time combined with the palate of this time, this would be a 95+ wine.AC2/14/20https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2013LimavidaMauleMalbec blendRed9085% Malbec with Carmenere, Carignan and Tannat. Purple berry fruit. Violet. Camphor. Medium bodied. Medium acid. Old vine Malbec. AC6/22/18https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2013VIGNOMauleCarignanRed94Exactly a year later from the last time I had this, the nose still has that ripe red fruit, but it’s just a little darker. Sweet balsamic and savory mediteranean herbal notes dominate more than the fruit now. The palate is similarly darker with less acidity and more savory notes than before. It’s a step up in elegance and silkiness. I think for your average drinker, this is at its peak. Because I like more acidity than the average person, I prefer it a little more last year. Still, this drinks like a slightly less tannic Brunello of about the same age. It’s a wine that’s a meal within itself with its mix of sour, savory and sweet notes.AC4/11/21https://demartino.cl/
De Martino2016VIGNOMauleCarignanRed94It’s been about a year and half since I last had this, and it has become more elegant and integrated as one would expect. The acidity has calmed down. Both the nose and palate were expressive. Lots of sweet spice and savory herbs on the nose. Some balsamic notes. Wood. Red fruit. The palate is super-smooth with good acidity. Red fruit and mint. The De Martino VIGNOs need 5 years to settle in.AC8/16/21https://demartino.cl/en/home-en-resp/
De Martino2016VIGNOMauleCarignanRed93Unfortunately, my last bottle of this. 85% Carignan with the rest Malbec and Cinsault. Aged in 5,000 liter oak foudres for 24 months. Over 500 cases made. This is getting smoother and smoother each time I taste it. Still with the red fruit and savory notes, balsamic, added floral notes but a little less acidity and tannins but still plenty of acidity. That interplay between savory and acid like top Tuscan Sangiovese. I'm curious to see how it ages from here. Not as intense or complex as the last time had it, but it's smoother.AC11/5/22https://demartino.cl/en/our-wines/
De Martino2018Viejas TinajasItataCinsaultRed87Earthy. Minerality. Wiff of smoke. Palate of cherry and raspberry, plumish finish.CS10/11/19https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2018Gallardia del ItataItataCinsaultRose88Fresh and fruity. Cherry, raspberry, slight minerality.CS10/11/19http://demartino.cl/
De Martino2017Legado Gran ReservaLimariChardonnayWhite88Easy drinker. Pear, peach, apple, slightly grapefruity.CS10/11/19http://demartino.cl/
De Martino2016VignoMauleCarignanRed87Red cherry and strawberry notes. Lighter than expected. Oak aging on it to give vanilla and wood characteristics.CS2/14/20https://demartino.cl/en/home/
De Martino2017 VIGNOMauleCarignanRed943,020 750ml bottles made. 261 total cases (with large format) which is about a quarter of what they typically make due to the conditions of the vintage such as fire. The nose is open for business with bright red fruit, balsamic notes, Mediteranean herbs and baking spices. The palate is also a party on your mouth with elegant tannins, high acidity and red fruit. I think some would still prefer to wait at least a couple of years for the acid to calm down more. At the moment, makes a great substitute for that Chianti you love with your tomato-based pasta sauce. De Martino VIGNOs are consistent in quality and style having had the 2013 and 2016 at a similar age.AC4/12/23https://demartino.cl/
De Martino2019La BlancaMaipoSemillonWhite92This is De Martino’s first varietal Semillon on the market after 4 years of experimenting with it. 100% Semillon on alluvial soils. Barrel fermented. 12 months in foudres. No malolactic. More oak influence and body and less minerality than the Granito. It’s rounder but remains fresh. White fruit. Leans more towards a Bordeaux Blanc in style. Great balance.AC6/18/23https://demartino.cl/en/
Dominique Derain2020Las NubesCasablancaPinot NoirRed91After around 30 years of producing Pinot Noir in the Cotes de Beaune, Dominique Derain decided to take his knowledge to Casablanca, Chile to produce Las Nubes Pinot Noir. It comes from a part of Montsecano’s vineyard called Las Nubes, hence the name. 60% destemming. Spontaneous fermentation in concrete eggs then stored in stainless steel vats. Unfiltered. No fining or sulfur added. The color is rather cloudy making it almost opaque despite the color being light red itself. The nose is expressive with dusty and herbal notes with dark red fruit. You get slightly funky smells you rarely get with wines fermented with commercial yeast. It smells like being in the vineyard. The palate shows dark-red, zesty, juicy fruit. A bit of fizz from secondary fermentation, but it goes away. Overall, it reminds me of the traditional, natural wines coming out of Beaujolais coming from producers like Foillard, Guy Breton, Lapierre, etc.AC4/9/22https://www.instagram.com/domderainpinot_/?hl=en
Don Heraldo2016Hecho a Mano PremiumCauquenes, MauleCarignanRed91Hits the spot in terms of what I like about Chilean Carignan. It has that spicy, balsamic and sun-ripen cherry notes that remind me of Italian Sangiovese. It's a bit riper and darker than some (sort of like it was a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot), but there's still plenty of acidity that demands food to go with it. Balanced as far as the oak and alcohol. Dry-farmed.AC2/15/21https://www.vdhwines.cl/
Don Juan Jose2018Tinajas del MonteCasablancaPinot NoirRed90~963 cases made; 35-year-old vines; 12 months in Tinajas (traditional amphora); minimum filtering. Pretty nose of red fruit, minerality, citrus and dusty notes. The palate is simpler, but shows refreshing red fruit and a touch of minerality in a light-bodied package. Just pure unadorned Pinot.AC8/19/21https://www.donjuanjose.cl/
Dos Almas2017Gran Reserva Famiglia ZoninCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Complex but reticent nose. Clay and citrus. Red fruit. Some garrigue and floral notes. Light bodied. A little menthol and spicy oak that takes away from the overall presentation though. AC11/15/19https://dosalmas.cl/wine/
Echeverria2017Reserva CuricoCabernet S.Red87Peppercorn nose, cassis, spice. Simple palate, fruity, low acid, mint.AC10/27/18http://www.echewine.com/
Echeverria2021No es PitukoCuricoChardonnayWhiteEcheverria’s ‘No es Pituko’ is their natural wine line. Fizzy. Apple Yeasty notes. Fresh.AC11/6/21http://www.echewine.com/
Echeverria2021No es PitukoCuricoViognierWhiteSome fizz. Nicer nose than the Chardonnay. Fresh & fruity, but more complex. Herbal notes. Some malolactic notes. Chirimoya.AC11/6/21http://www.echewine.com/
Echeverria2021No es PitukoCuricoCabernet FrancRedBig roasted bell pepper, pyrazine nose, but the palate is fruity and fresh. Red berry fruits & floral notes mixed with savory herbal notes. Moderate tannic structure for midterm aging. Not so different than a Loire Valley red.AC11/6/21http://www.echewine.com/
Eclat2009VIGNOMauleCarignan Red87More expressive and bigger than the Meli Carignan I just had before this, but there's also more oak and it's still rather one-dimensional. Also owned by Valdivieso.AC8/10/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
El Escorial2022Gran ReservaAconcaguaChenin BlancWhite91Spends 4 months on fine lees. White fruit with savory herbal and floral notes on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with medium+ acid and a savory backend. Medium+ intensity on the palate.AC3/25/23https://www.elescorial.cl/es/
El Principal2016MemoriasMaipoBlendRed90Dark color and dark nose. A bit reticent but served a bit too cold. Savoury herbal notes. Smooth palate. Modern, but still fresh. Spice. Tannins. Needs to warm up some to open up. 90+AC3/13/20https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2014MemoriasMaipoCab blendRed90A step up from the Calicante in intensity and elegance. Still dark fruit dominated. More tannic. Needs time still with a little heat and oak to be integrated. 90+AC8/31/18https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2016CalicanteMaipoCab blendRed88Nose has nice savoury spicy herbs, dark fruit, some acid, but too much heat and oak. AC8/31/18https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2018KineMaipoVerdejoWhite90I’ve had this before at tastings. It takes some time to open up and integrate the oak which is a little bitter on the palate inicially. There are some citrus notes. Minerality. A smokiness. The wood became better integrated. It spends 10 months in French oak. Green apple, white peach as I remember from the previous times I had it. However, the acidity seems lower than then though. It is rounder than most Chilean whites, but not far off from a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, just less acid and thicker. This is the only verdejo in Chile and probably one of the only ones outside of Rueda Spain. Could probably get better with time. AC4/5/20https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2016MemoriasMaipoBlendRed96An excellent red blend of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and syrah. Complex and balanced with nice lingering acidity. Oak, vanilla, chocolate with nice minty and eucalyptus notes.CS3/13/20https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2017CalicantoMaipoBlendRed94Cabernet Ssauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot, carmenere, syrah. Well balanced and great acidity. Surprising red blend. CS3/13/20https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2017CalicantoMaipoCabernet S., Cabernet franc, petit verdot, carmenere, syrahRed97Powerful and structured. Barrel bouquet of oak, chocolate, vanilla. Concentrated dark fruits, think plum and ripe blackberry. Earthy on the palate with smoke, leather, nuts. Lasting finish.CS10/11/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2015MemoriasMaipoCabernet S., carmenereRed97Aromas of red fruits, heavy bouquet. Oak age, vanilla, cassis, mint and earth. Balanced palate with lingering acidity.CS10/11/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2016MemoriasMaipoCabernet S., carmenereRed96Did a vertical tasting of the 2015, very similar, perhaps a point higher here due to an extra year of age, but a toss up. CS3/13/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal2018KineMaipoVerdejoWhite95Great varietal find. More fruit forward than its European grown cousins. Excellent citric balance with green apple and pear notes.CS3/13/20https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal 2015MemoriasMaipoBlendRed91More elegant and integrated than the Calicanto, but similar in style. Still big alcohol, fruit and use oak, but it's better done with the Memorias if you like this style.AC10/11/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal 2017CalicantoMaipoBlendRed89Ripe high tone nose, berry, big fruit on the palate too. A little oak and heat.AC10/11/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal 2018KineMaipoVerdejoWhite90Green apple. Fuller than most Chilean whites, but not as acidic. AC10/11/19https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Principal 2020KiñeMaipoVerdejoWhite90100% Verdejo. The first varietal Verdejo to be sold in Chile. Hence, the name Kiñe means first or unique in Mapudungun. This is the 8th vintage. Cool maceration. Several months of battonage. Aged around 10 months in concrete eggs and French oak. This was about $15 on sale. The nose is medium intensity with some savory herbal notes, sweet oak, white fruit, a bit of orange zest and slight floral notes. On the palate, it’s medium+ bodied with medium acid, but it’s not at all flat. More apple and peach with slight bitter notes.AC11/6/23https://www.elprincipal.cl/
El Viejo Almacen de Sauzal2016Huaso de SauzalMauleGrenacheRed89Potent nose of licorice, caramel, oak. Earthy. Unfiltered with lots of sediment. Dark fruit palate with some heat and oak. AC10/11/19renancancinoa@gmail.com
El Viejo Almacen de Sauzal2014Huaso de Sauzal ChilenaMaulePaisRed91Darker than most Pais, some floral, spicy and earthy notes. Medium acidity. Easy drinking. Unfilitered and rustic on the palate, but the nose is quite complex. Around 417 cases made. A more expensive and bigger Pais at 20 dollars. AC1/13/19renancancinoa@gmail.com
Elena Pantaleoni2017PisadorCauquenes, MaulePaisRed90Italian winemaker of La Stoppa from Emilia-Romagna region. Foot pressed, hand destemmed. Only 275 cases made. 100+ year old ungrafted bush vines. She's going for a bigger style of Pais, and it is definitely more concentrated, darker, riper and fuller than any Pais I've had, but there's no extra heat. Feels sort of like a modern Rhone wine. Drank this next to a Listan Prieto (Pais or Mission grape) wine from the Canary Islands where these Pais grapes are said to have stopped on their way to the New World. The one from Tenerife was much more classic and minerally from the volcanic soil while the Pisador is a more modern interpretation. AC6/1/19https://www.facebook.com/vinopisador/
Elqui Wines2016ElquiPinot NoirRed921335 cases made. Never seen a Pinot this color. It looks aged with brickish brown and orange but transparent tint. The nose is pretty and complex: spicy creamy notes from the oak (24 months French oak, 30% new) with some minerality and bright dark red fruit and floral notes. The palate is light and tangy. Red fruit, minerality and citrus. Sort of reminds me of Nebbiolo without the tannins given the color and flavor profile.AC1/24/21http://www.elquiwines.cl/
Emiliana2019SalvajeCasablancaSyrahRed9296% Syrah, 4% Roussane; 1,150 cases made. Organic. Unoaked. 5 months in stainless steel. No sulfites. Once filtered. One of the better Syrahs I’ve had in Chile. Nose is of bright ripe purple fruit and purple floral notes. The palate is super-silky and manges to stay fresh at 3.7 pH. It also has some minerality from the granite soil. Doesn’t have the earthy notes you get from the Northern Rhone, but it has the elegance. Its acidity and elegance are enough to go with white meat or heavily sauced seafood if need be. Definitely not a California Syrah or Australian Shiraz. It's a steal for $9 here in Chile.AC12/5/20http://www.emiliana.cl/filtro.html
Emiliana2019AdobeCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red87(mostly from Maipo and Colchagua) featured red cassis, good acidic structure. A little dry and green on the finish. A lighter Cab with minimal oak influence.AC11/27/20http://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2017AdobeCentral ValleySyrahRed87From Casablanca and Colchagua fruit. Dark, round, a bit meaty, low acid and medium bodied.AC11/27/20http://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2014CoyamColchaguaBlendRed9045%Syrah, 35%Carmenere with CS,Malbec, Petit Verdot and Mourvedre. Dark ripe fruit on nose, some menthol, round, touch of oak and heat. Coffee. Modern wine. Good material but not quite together. Low acid. Should get better as it integrates. AC11/23/17http://m.emiliana.cl/en/home/
Emiliana2017CoyamColchaguaBlendRedFlawed43% Syrah, 29% Carmenere, 12 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Mourvedre, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Carignan, 2% Malbec, 2% Garnacha, 1% Tempranillo; 13,078 cases made. The winery is biodynamic, organic and carbon neutral. This 2017 is just way over-oaked. On the nose, all you get is oak and alcohol. The palate has a bit of dark ripe fruit in the background, decent acidity and vanilla, but is also dominated by oak. The texture is smooth with soft tannins, but there is some heat. The heat fades away with food, but the oak won’t go away even after a couple of hours. 75% is aged for 14 months in a mix of new and used French oak. The name Coyam actually means “Oak forest” in the Mapuche language and the name of the vineyard is “Los Robles” in Spanish or “the oaks.” So I’m not sure if all this oak was intentional or part of the terroir. Perhaps the oak will integrate with time. 2nd day: Although the nose was a little less offensive, I think I have to conclude that this wine is just corked. It didn't really have the obvious corked notes yesterday, but the fruit was so muted that only the oak stood out. Today there's a bit of wet paper taste. Honestly, I haven't had a lot of corked wines in my life, but after doing further research since I didn't get the obvious "wet dog" or "mold" smell, I learned that cork taint like other aromas/tastes of wine can be subtle and different based on the wine itself and taster's genetics/tolerance, and/or it can simply just mute the flavors of a wine. Bottom line, this wine is flawed, whatever the cause may be.

AC8/8/20https://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2018CoyamColchaguaBlendRed9342% Syrah, 39% Carmenere, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Grenache, 3% Malbec, 3% Carignan, 1% Tempranillo, 1% Mourvedre. The nose is complex but features ripe dark berry fruit, a touch of earthiness, some savory herbs and tomato leaf, coffee and vanilla. On the palate there’s ripe berry fruit, medium acidity giving it just enough freshness, with a savory streak and silky texture. No heat like I’ve experienced in previous vintages. It’s a good representative of Colchagua’s 2 best grapes: Carmenere and Syrah. Although this remains on the modern side, it’s the most elegant and pure version of Coyam I’ve had. This should have a lot of fans.AC10/7/20
Emiliana2015Adobe ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed87good freshness, but light and simple, some mineralityAC8/26/17http://m.emiliana.cl/en/home/
Emiliana2019AdobeColchaguaCarmenereRed88Has typical dry herbal notes on the nose with dark fruit, soft texture and medium to low acid.AC11/27/20http://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2016Adobe ReservaRapelMerlotRed86Organic vineyards. Some herbal notes, good acidity, rather tannic for a cheap Merlot, but not much depth or lengthAC8/18/17http://m.emiliana.cl/en/home/
Emiliana2018AdobeRapelMerlotRed89Features fresh plummy fruit. Better acid than most Chilean Merlot. Not the most complex, but a step up in balance and intensity for a wine at this price range of about $7 here in Chile.AC11/27/20http://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2013Signos de OrigenColchaguaGarnacha, Syrah, MouvedreRed88Organic. Plum, Raspberry, Licorice, hints of cherry and pepper.CS5/16/20https://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2021Signos de OrigenCasablancaSyrahRed8998% Syrah, 2% Viognier. Co-fermentation. Dark berry fruits with dried plum and beef jerky. I don’t really get the Viognier, but the nose is not opening up at the moment. Smooth tannins. Medium+ acid. Definitely more acid than an average New World Syrah/Shiraz.The palate is more intense and expressive than the nose, but there’s some heat on the nose and palate. Definitely not in the style of Aussie Shiraz or even California Syrah. It leans more old world as a cool climate Syrah.AC9/28/23https://www.emiliana.cl/
Emiliana2022TaisCasablancaPinot NoirRose91Nose of Casablanca Pinot. Starts off with touch of reduction and savory notes on the nose but it expands to mostly floral and red fruit notes. The palate is delicate with strawberry, red berry fruit notes with plenty of zippy acidity. Above average intensity for a rose. I think this is only their second vintage of this new rose. AC3/9/24https://www.emiliana.cl/
Encierra2014ReservePeralillo, ColchaguaBlendRed91The nose is complex and constantly changes. There’s cherry and cassis. Tomato leaf, savory herbs, tobacco, mint, cocoa, vanilla and cedar. The palate has medium acidity, rather gripping tannins given the age, but over time and with food there are no hard edges. However, the palate lacks a bit of fruit and has a touch too much oak. I don’t know if it’s the age or if it just needs time to open up more. Could not find the exact numbers about the 2014, but the 2017 was listed as 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Carmenere, 10% Syrah, 20% Petit Verdot, 10% Mourvedre; ~35,000 bottles made. AC7/7/20https://encierra.cl/?lang=en
Encierra2016PorelColchaguaBlendRed90This is their top wine. A blend of 50% Carmenere, 25% Syrah and 25% Petit Verdot. Spends 18 months in 600l French oak barrels. Only 3,300 bottles made. Dark dried fruit. A touch herbal, but the chocolaty oak covers most if it. Some spice and a touch of heat. Dark and concentrated wine with chalky tannins that needs time. Still rather monolithic and closed now. 90+AC10/2/21https://encierra.cl/?lang=en
Entre Lomas2021SoleadoMaulePaisDessert88They let their grapes dry on the vines. 100% Pais. Don't feel the 17% alcohol. Dried sweet dark fruit. Low acid. Port like. Licorice.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinosentrelomas/?hl=en
Entre Lomas2021MauleBlanco OvoideWhite8815 days with skins. Some oxidative and dry leafy notes. Beer notes. High acid. Some tannins.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinosentrelomas/?hl=en
Entre Lomas2023KukarroMauleListan PrietoRed83100 year old vines. They call their Pais Listan Prieto because they it is genetically closer to the original from Spain and the Canary Islands implying that some Pais today are really mutation or crosses, so really criolla. Super light, clear, earthy and mild fruit. A bit of tannin. Low acid. But really light.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinosentrelomas/?hl=en
Entre Vientos2015Gran ReservaCachapoalCarmenereRed89Smooth. Balanced. A bit tight. Mocha, rich fruit. AC11/24/18https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Wine-Spirits/Vino-Entre-Vientos-503325316748888/
Erasmo2016MauleBarbera, GarnachaRed9060% Babera, 30% Grenache, 10% Carignan. Bright red fruit nose with savoury herbs and minerality. Palate medium bodied with strawberry watermelon candy like taste. No wood aging at all. Easy drinking and versatile with food. AC8/28/18http://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo2016MauleBarbera, GrenacheRed88Red fruit driven, some spice. Otherwise rather simple. AC8/30/19http://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo2016MauleGrenache, AlicanteRed88Garrigue. Red fruit. A little bitter aftertaste. 75% Grenache and 25% AlicanteAC8/30/19http://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo2017MauleMourvedreRosé89Nice nose. Rhone like. Palate sort of candied almost carbonated sensation. Not at all like Bandol roses which are more substantial and spicy but also made of mostly Mourvedre.AC2/1/19http://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo2015AsoleadoMaulePaisDessert92The color is akin to a rose made from a darker grape. The nose reveals ripe dried fruit, some white flowers, a little wood, a medicinal herbal note and some rustic qualities of Pais. The palate is generous and velvety with ripe cherry fruit, a little spice and warmth. It still manages to feel fresh though and doesn’t feel cloying.AC3/11/21http://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo 2014Selección de BarricasMauleAlicante BouschetRed88Only 3,592 bottles were made. 85% Alicante Bouschet, 15% Syrah. The grapes come from Caliboro in the San Javier de Loncomilla sub-region of Maule. Dry-farmed. Native yeasts. Aged 16 months in oak. No filtering. I like the nose which is in full expression of secondary notes and verging on tertiary notes. There’s cedar, tobacco and spice and a tiny bit of tart black berry fruit in the background. The problem is the palate is sort of in an awkward stage and not showing much. It especially lacks fruit. There’s a bit, but not much. Medium+ acid. The 14.5% alcohol is generally integrated. The palate just doesn’t show enough fruit to match the oak based secondary notes. There are some noticeable tannins without food, but fine with food. At almost 9 years of age, it’s not so abnormal for age worthy wines to be in this in-between stage, so perhaps it’ll improve. At the same, perhaps there wasn’t enough fruit to begin with which can be an issue of high-yielding Alicante Bouschet.AC12/31/22https://erasmo.bio/en/
Erasmo 2014Selección de BarricasMauleAlicante BouschetRed89dark dark color. Nose has dark fruit with some secondary notes. Full-bodied. Still quite tannic. Dark fruit. Licorice. Medium-low acid. Better than the first time I had this but still super tannic. Needs to age longer. 89+AC11/1/23https://erasmo.bio/en/
Erizo2017CasablancaChardonnayWhite9130% Malolactic. Used barrels. A little fizz but it goes away. Ripe fruit. Floral. Dried herbs. A touch of butter. Medium acid.AC4/22/23https://www.vinoerizo.cl/
Erizo2016CuricoMerlotRed89very tomato leafy on the nose. Savory. Bloody. Olives. More akin to an old world Syrah. Medium-low acid.AC4/22/23https://www.vinoerizo.cl/
Errante Singular Wines2017CasablancaSyrahRed90Dark, meaty, ripe, licorice, but still fresh; 1624 bottles made.AC11/25/18http://singular.wine/
Errante Singular Wines2017Loncomilla, MauleCabernet Franc, MerlotRed8950/50 CF and Merlot, but CF driven. Some structure. Red fruit and floral. 1,198 bottles made.AC11/25/18http://singular.wine/
Errante Singular Wines2017Loncomilla, MauleCarmenereRed90Just 2,110 bottles made. Floral. Elegant. Red fruited Carmenere.AC11/25/18http://singular.wine/
Errazuriz2013AconcaguaCarmenereRed90Vegetal nose. Big round dark fruit palate. AC3/4/16http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2016Max ReservaAconcaguaCarmenereRed91Has some syrah and petit verdot. 28% new oak used. Some typical Carmenere notes but more towards tobacco, mocha and red pepper, spice than green pepper. Palate has no hard edges, dark fruit. Could use more acid, but still feels fresh. AC3/17/19http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2016AconcaguaCarmenereRed93One of the best Carmenere I've had in Chile. Nose is complex with ripe dark fruit, savoury herbs, roasted pepper, chocolate. Palate has no hard edges. Nice acidity. Fruit driven with a streak of salinity. Definitely a step above the Max Reserva. Bought on sale for 20 dollars.AC4/20/19http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2017Max ReservaAconcaguaCarmenereRed90Probably the best introduction to Chilean Carmenere for an international wine drinker. It has standard Carmenere green notes but mostly in a savoury dried herbal way with a touch of menthol and dark berry fruit. The herbs are never too much but it makes it distinctly Carmenere. It’s certainly easy to drink and international in style on the palate with dark fruit notes, but it still remains cool and has just enough acidity. It also remains light on its feet with a silky texture and no excess weight, heat or oak. Some spice on the back end. It’s a wine that should please most people and pair with a lot of things while having typical Carmenere characteristics. Only 10 dollars here in Chile, so that should also make consumers happy.AC5/30/20http://www.errazuriz.com/en/
Errazuriz2018Max ReservaAconcaguaPinot NoirRed91some reduction, earth, minerality and smoky spice and herbs. Palate has bright red fruit, tangy with some oaky spice and minerally salinity on the back end. 15% new oak is used. Light and transparent in color and light on the palate. A nice Pinot as usual from Errazuriz. 4,096 cases made. Errazuriz has been working on their Pinots with Louis-Michel Liger-Belair (who also has a project with Parra and Massoc called Aristos), from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair in Burgundy’s Vosne-Romanée appellation, especially their top end Las Pizarras Pinot and Chardonnay.AC3/26/20http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2016Aconcagua AltoCabernet S.Red92Nose has bright red berry fruit with a touch of savory herbal notes and smoky spice to let you know it’s Chilean. The palate is basically the same with elegant bright juicy red fruits, good acidity, and some savory herbal and spicy notes on the backend. Errazuriz rarely disappoints and is a great way to get to know Chilean wines, especially their Bordeaux varietals, because of the price of these and their Max Reserva lines and because they skirt the line stylistically between Old and New World while keeping just enough Chilean identity. Sometimes, this line of Aconcagua Alto wines doesn’t always justify the more expensive price over the Max Reserva line, but in this case, the elegance and length made it worth it. 92-93AC7/27/20http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2017Las PizarrasAconcagua CostaPinot NoirRed95Schist soil from their best plots. Planted with the famous Dijon clone 777 around 2005. 20% full cluster fermentation. Native yeast. 35% new French oak for 13 months. Around 833 cases made. Serious Pinot. Could be mistaken for a Grand Cru from Burgundy if tasted blind, especially on the nose. A step up in intensity to most Chilean Pinot with a complex nose of savory herbal, mineral and earthy notes mixed with dark red berry fruit and spice. The palate is also intense with cherry-raspberry fruit and a streak of acidic grip and minerality with good length while staying relatively light and balanced. Yet it’s packed with tension making you feel that more is to come, so perhaps decant or wait a few more years. 95+AC12/24/20http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2012El Parron ReservaRapelCabernet BlendRed89Very red fruit. High acid for Cab blend. AC3/7/15http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2017KaiAconcaguaCarmenereRed93100% Carmenere from their best plots of estate vineyards; 22 months in 60% New Oak; They make around 700-1000 cases. Like their Sena and Chadwick, Kai has placed high in or won various international blind tastings against superstar wines like Haut Brion and Opus One. The nose makes you immediately think this is Carmenere, or perhaps Cabernet Franc because it’s definitely pyrazines but in a sweet and savoury way along with coffee. It jumps out at you immediately. The palate is vibrant with plenty of acidity. It coats the mouth but remains medium-bodied, fairly light and fresh, which gives it dark and red berry fruit. Some spice. Good length. Texturely, it’s smooth and seamless. It’s not as big, tannic and intense as Clos Apalta, but I appreciate the acidity, so that can help age perhaps just as long. Still quite young. I decanted it for an hour, but it’s still youthful with possibly more to come. Ultimately, I like it more than most other Carmenere I’ve had because it manages to pack intensity and still remain fresh and not too heavy like some, even if some of the other Carmenere have more complexity and are more ostentatious. 93+AC12/24/21https://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2020MAXAconcaguaSauvignon BlancWhite90Costs $16-25 in the US. This producer is the most ubiquitous Chilean brand internationally after Concha y Toro. Taken from their coastal vineyards less than 30 km from the Pacific. 20% whole cluster and pressed. Fermented in stainless steel at low temperatures. Screw-cap. Almost the same as the Dog Point except this starts off with herbal, green vegetable notes before giving way to the white fruit, zest and floral notes. Fresh and easy drinking.AC11/6/22https://errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz2018Mac ReservaAconcaguaChardonnayWhite88Full bodied and citric. Tropical notes such as pineapple and mango.CS2/17/20http://www.errazuriz.com/en/
Errazuriz 2012Don MaximianoAconcaguaCabernet BlendRed9275% Cabernet with Carmenere, Petit Verdot. Maybe some Malbec and/or Syrah. Nice ripe cassis on the nose. Rather linear and straightforward on the palate. Smooth silky tannins, but rather austere at the moment. 92+AC12/9/15http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2019La CumbreAconcaguaSyrahRed9222 months in French oak barrels (25% new). 50% whole bunch. Syrah with a bit of Petit Verdot and Viognier. Not the darkest Syrah. Ripe purple fruit on the nose, touch floral and meaty but shy at the moment. Some spice comes too. Coravined. Dark fruit and spicy but finishes more with red fruit and acidity and then savory meatiness, olive and spice and chocolate from the oak. Medium-bodied. Elegant feel. Not a heavy Syrah. More a nod to Northern Rhone. There are some tannins, but won't be noticeable with food. Can still open up. 92+AC6/28/24http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2021KaiAconcaguaCarmenereRed9385 Carmenere, 11 Syrah, 4 Malbec. 22 months in oak. 60% new. Coravin. Pyrazine on the nose and palate but just enough to show it's Carmenere and give it complexity. More of a baked and seasoned green pepper rather than raw green pepper. Some sweet oak notes too. Good acidity. A bit more than the La Cumbre. Fruity. Red and dark fruits with savory finish. Tannins are already quite tamed. Softer than the 2019 La Cumbre already, but there are tannins, just softer. Plus the acidity, I think it should age well and improve. It's still quite young. 93+AC6/28/24http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2021Don MaximianoAconcaguaCabernet blendRed9363% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Malbec, 8% Carmenere and 7% Petit Verdot. 22 months in French oak (70% new). Coravin. Classic Bordeaux nose of elegant oak, chocolate and ripe fruit, but a bit shy. Cassis. Mint. Fresh acidity. Elegant feel. More tannic than the Kai of the same age but keeps the fresh and elegant style of the lineup. Oak is well integrated. Some spice. Chalky and mineral aspects. This should be the most crowd pleasing with less of the obvious pyrazine of the Kai and no meaty, leathery notes of the La Cumbre. Still needs more time to develop. 93+AC6/28/24http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2014Max ReservaAconcaguaCabernet S.Red90Ripe cassis, savoury herbs, graphite, menthol. Pepper. Vanilla. More on the classic side. AC1/26/18http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2015Max ReservaAconcaguaCarmenereRed91Plum, tobacco, savoury and herbaceous, medicinal, juicy and freshAC8/15/17http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2015Max ReservaAconcaguaPinot NoirRed91Burgundian nose-earthy, smoky. Palate strawberry fruit, good acidity. Pure. No hard edges. AC12/4/17http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2017Max ReservaAconcaguaPinot NoirRed90Typical Pinot earthy herby notes onthe nose. Light transparent color and light feel on the palate. Red fruit palate. Fresh. AC1/22/19http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2016Aconcagua CostaPinot NoirRed92This line is a step up from the Max Reserva at around 24 dollars. The label is made to look like the details are handwritten. Burgundy like nose. More intense than the Max Reserva. Dark red fruit, some citrus freshness. Fuller than the Max Reserva but still smooth and not heavy. AC1/26/19http://www.errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz NVBlanc de Blancs Brut Nature Metodo TradicionalAconcagua CostaChardonnaySparkling94100% Chardonnay. There’s no vintage on the label, but the wine store website and Errazuriz’s website implies that this comes from the 2016 harvest and was released in late 2021. Handpicked. Whole cluster pressed. 66% fermented in used French oak and the rest in stainless steel. 30% malolactic fermentation. Aged for 7 months in used French oak and then 5 years in bottle with lees contact. Since it is a Brut Nature, this means no sugar is added. The nose shows a touch of citrus with toasty bread, caramel, savory notes. Definitely get more oxidative notes from the time in oak which is less common for Chilean espumante. Some nutty notes. Dry. Probably the driest Chilean espumante I've had too. Medium+ acid with lots of salinity on the palate. Fine bubbles. Medium+ amount of bubbles and persistence. Also more body than most Chilean espumante. This is a sparkling to have with seafood and other foods you'd have with good white Burgundy. AC12/24/22https://errazuriz.com/
Errazuriz 2020MaxAconcaguaPinot NoirRed91The nose features bright red fruit with some sweet spicey notes like nutmeg but also some savory dried herbal notes. The palate shines with sour red fruits with a rather silky, medium-body. Fuller than an average Chilean Pinot, but still not heavy. No hard edges. Balanced.AC8/10/23https://errazuriz.com/en
Escandalo2020ColchaguaSemillonWhite9060 year old vines. Organic. Hand-harvested. Stainless steel, native yeast fermentation. The cloudy golden color shows it’s not filtered. The nose really opens up quite nicely to pretty white floral and honey notes, stone fruit and touch of savory spice. Typical Semillon notes. The palate is medium bodied with medium acid, with a creamy feel. Perhaps there’s some time on lees. Ripe fruit and floral too. Something a touch bitter on the back-end, but otherwise a pleasant wine.AC6/13/23https://www.instagram.com/escandalowines/?hl=en
Escondida2018ColchaguaCabernet S.Red83Red fruit notes and blackberry. Lacking some acidity and very fruity. CS11/15/19http://www.vinaescondidadecolchagua.cl/
Escondido2017?ColchaguaCabernet S.Red86Weird chemical like nose. Good acidity but astringent back end. Not much on the attack. Funny labels showing different outlaws that represent the personality of the vineyard. AC11/25/18https://www.facebook.com/vinaescondida/?rf=1066155123435857
Escudo Rojo2017Central ValleyBlendRed91Nose-savoury, mocha, vanilla, menthol. Red fruit. Palate is creamy and red fruit driven with pepper. It was much better the 2nd day. Better integrated. More expressive. Tobacco notes began to emerge. The fruit more vibrant. AC12/9/18https://www.escudo-rojo.com/en/
Escudo Rojo2017ColchaguaCarmenereRed89Nose reminds me of a modern right bank Bordeaux. There's oak but good quality oak, which the Rothschilds can afford. Like a cellar in Bordeaux chateau. Some vanilla and spice. There's some creaminess to the wine. Palate is fruit driven . Medium acid. Feels more like a generic modern Bordeaux Superieur. There's some heat and the oak could integrate a little better though. AC10/18/19https://www.escudo-rojo.com/en/
Escudo RojoN/AMaipoCabernet S.Red89Same owners as Mouton Rothschild. Ripe cassis, herby, licorice, good acid. balanced, but modern. AC11/4/17https://www.escudo-rojo.com/en/
Escudo Rojo2023Gran ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite89This comes from Las Dichas, which is a part of Casablanca closer to the coast (about 12 km). It spends 6 months in vats with lees stirring. It seems like previous vintages were called Reserva, but now they call this Gran Reserva. The nose is a bit shy but starts off fresh and citrusy. A bit of baked asparagus and herbs eventually come through. The palate continues with citrus and passion fruit with a salty, minerally finish. This is rather standard Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc, but with a bit more body and creaminess, probably from the lees aging. There’s less pyrazine than average too.AC10/13/24https://www.escudo-rojo.com/en/
Escuela Vieja2020ItataPaisRed89100+ year old vines and traditional winemaking. The name comes from the fact that the house where the vineyard is located was used as the first school of the region, but at least in English it has double-meaning given they use traditional old-school winemaking. Although there is use of sulfites, the wine reminds me of other traditional Pais based wines from Maule and Itata. Definitely not filitered with its cloudy dark purple color. Probably native yeasts. If there is wood, it’s really old used vessels. Ultimately, it’s still a fruit driven wine. Dark red fruit on the nose with some yeasty notes. The palate also shows dark, dried red plummy fruit with medium acid and some tannic structure. Medium-bodied with medium alcohol too. Overall, it’s bigger and more structured than most Pais, but still not a heavy or full-bodied wine.AC3/23/22https://www.escuelavieja.com/
Espaldares 2019MaipoCabernet S.Dessert88This is different in two ways. Most “Late Harvest” labeled wines in Chile do not have Botrytis, which this does, and most are not made with red wine grapes. This is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s not quite as thick as most Sauternes, but the flavor profile is similar. There’s a honey note from botrytis. It’s sweet but also with good acidity. It’s sort of like having a Sauternes infused with some red berries. It’s low in alcohol at 12.5% though. Sauternes must have at least 13%. Only 20 cases of half bottles produced. They only cost 5 dollars for a half bottle here in Santiago which is extremely cheap. It’s something different to try if you haven’t had red late harvest wines or any late harvest with botrytis wines from Chile.AC9/18/20http://www.espaldaresdelmaipo.cl/
Espiritu de Chile2019AppassimentoChileBlendRedFlawedThis is produced by Aresti. Merlot & Syrah. Wine of Chile designation, so not from a specific valley. This is not easy to find in Chile because it’s mostly exported. Only about $8 in Chile. Unfortunately, this was corked. I was curious to try a Chilean wine using the appassimento method, which is most popular in Veneto in Italy with wines like Amarone. AC5/30/23https://espiritudechile.com/
Estacion Yumbel2019PipenoBio-Bio, Secano InteriorPaisRed88100% Pais. Comes from 150 year old bush vines with original rootstock. 100% destemmed. Aged in 60-80 year old traditional pipas, which are large barrels made from a tree called Rauli, a type of beech tree native to Chile. Hence, the label “Pipeno,” which is traditionally a rustic countryside wine made from these wild grown bush Pais grapes aged in pipas. Dry-farmed, unfined, unfiltered, and no sulphites added. The color is light but cloudy reflecting the unfilitered nature of the wine. The wine is rather typical rustic Chilean Pais (called Mission in California or Criolla in Argentina). The nose is a bit funky with herbal, earthy, minerally notes. The palate features dark berry fruit with high acidity and a fizzy feel. There’s also a touch of spice. It’s a zippy wine that’s better chilled. The volcanic soil keeps it fresh and minerally. In some ways, acts more like white wine in that respect. Some may not like the rustic nature of this wine, but it’d be nice with some rustic Chilean food like Prietas, or blood sausage.AC8/23/20https://www.facebook.com/mauricio.gonzalez.925
Estampa2019InspiracionColchaguaRefoscoRed90Only 21 cases made. 100% Refosco from 2 clones of Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso from Rauscedo, which is in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, its primary home in Italy. The vineyard is dryfarmed and located in Marchigüe, closer to the coast. Manual harvest, fermentation in stainless steel tanks and aged 14 months in 2nd use oak barrels. Dark almost opaque color. The nose starts off with ripe berry fruit (black and red) with some sweet toasty oak spice notes, dried herbs, coffee, caramel. On the palate, there’s more of the dark berry fruit with lots of acidity. Chalky tannins and a little heat without food, but smooth with food. Medium bodied. Reminds me a bit of Bobal in that it’s shows dark fruit while remaining acidic.AC8/21/22https://estampa.com/en/
Estampa2019InspiracionColchaguaTeroldegoRed89Only 390 bottles made. 100% Teroldego from a vineyard in Marchigüe. Dry-farmed. Granite soils with some clay. Manual harvest. 14 months in 2nd use oak. Dark color. The nose starts off with lots of spice, some oak, but then there’s a ripe dark cherry fruit. The palate had upfront dark red fruit too with round tannins. However, there’s some heat. Medium acid. Similar to the Estampa Refosco but with less acidity and little more heat despite less alcohol. It’s also darker, riper and higher in alcohol with less acidity than the Italian versions I’ve had.AC8/25/22https://estampa.com/
Estampa 2020InspiracionColchagua, ParedonesBlendWhite91Fairly standard modern winemaking with fermentation in stainless steel, commercial yeasts, racking to remove the gross lees. Sulfite used. Filtered. 34% Fiano, 33% Vermentino, 33% Greco; Only 453 bottles made. The nose is interesting with a splash of peach, herbal notes and creamy, bready notes. On the palate you get a medium-light round wine with some citrus and spice.AC3/4/21https://estampa.com/
Estampa del Viento2017Colchagua, ParedonesPinot NoirRed88Some reduction, dark fruited, meaty, savoury herbs, medium low acid and intensity. Creamier than most. Dark cherry, blueberry. A little oak. Disjointed at the moment. Verges on Rhone like, which is my experience with Pinot from Colchagua. Only 215 cases made.AC9/1/19https://www.estampa.com/es/home.php
Estancia El Cuadro2015CasablancaSyrahRed89Fruti driven dark syrah fruit, but keeps fresh.AC3/31/19https://elcuadro.cl/
Evangelina2022Rucia del HuedqueCauquenesSemillonWhite87dry farmed. 100+ year old vines. Mostly natural and traditional winemaking with a touch of sulfites added before bottling. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks or tinajas. They don’t age their wines. They go direct to bottling. 85% Semillon, 15% Friulano (Sauvignon Vert). Herbal, natural smelling nose. Rather sweet and fruity on the palate.AC9/10/22https://www.facebook.com/people/Vi%C3%B1a-Evangelina/100063449002527/
Evangelina2021Batal Pura SangreCauquenesPaisRed89Interesting nose, floral, sweet herbs. Dark savory palate. Medium acid. Some tannic structure.AC9/10/22https://www.facebook.com/people/Vi%C3%B1a-Evangelina/100063449002527/
Evangelina2022Batal Pura SangreCauquenesPaisRed89More red fruit, floral, lighter than the 2021. Some sweet pastry notes.AC9/10/22https://www.facebook.com/people/Vi%C3%B1a-Evangelina/100063449002527/
Fajardo2022CopiapoBlendWhite83Clearly, unfiltered, floral, fruity, almost sweet but a touch vegetal too.AC9/18/22https://fajardovineyard.com/
Fajardo2022CopiapoBlendRed83Fruity, raisiny, some tannins, a touch bitterAC9/18/22https://fajardovineyard.com/
Fajardo2022CopiapoBlendChichaN/ATastes cidery, sweet, a touch fizzy but not much. Some herbal and medicinal notes but sweet. Almost as sweet as the añejo. I'd rather have it more fermented to get less residual sugar. Still haven't had enough Chichas to rate them, and it's not really a wine meant to be rated. It's just traditional partially fermented juice for traditional occasions.AC9/18/22https://fajardovineyard.com/
FajardoNVCopiapoBlendDessert87Brownish color. They also call it "misa" because they used it during mass. A little nutty, caramelly. Like a lighter Pedro Ximenez from Spain. Some acid keeps it somewhat fresh.AC9/18/22https://fajardovineyard.com/
Falernia2016Gran Reserva Edicion AniversarioElquiCarmenereRed8860% of the grapes went through the appassimento process (like Amarone wines), which is essentially drying grapes to concentrate the wine more. Hence the color is darker. It doesn't taste like a normal Carmenere or any particular grape. We were drinking it side by side with regular Chilean Carmenere. It's quite ripe, almost liquor like or medicinal cherry fruit on the nose and palate. There's a feeling of high alcohol but it manages not to be hot. Rich and sweet, but otherwise rather simple. A little bit of herbs. Of course more viscous and less acidic than most Chilean Carmenere. We also had a Bodega Renacer Milamore from Mendoza which also uses appassimento with the help of a consultant from Valpolicella. However, they use malbec and other grapes. I found this one more refined, elegant and fresh. Neither are as powerful as most Amarones I've experienced. AC1/10/20https://falernia.com/
Falernia2019ReserveElquiPedro XimenezWhite88Not to be confused with Pedro Gimenez with a “G,” which they also grow in this region and use in pisco, this Pedro Ximenez with an “X” is the same grape that they use to make the sweet Pedro Ximenez in Spain. It’s not a grape you usually find as a dry white single varietal. Screwtop. Initially this is dominated by minerality on the nose and palate. There’s minerality and salinity. The acid is lower than say a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s still fresh. Eventually a ripe white peach note emerges on the nose and palate with a touch of honey. Aged in steel vats. A solid white that is more than the worth the 7-dollar price.AC6/6/20https://falernia.com/portfolio/falernia/faler-px.html
Falernia2016Gran ReservaElquiCarmenereRed92More powerful than expected. Darker in color. Intense. Slightly vegetal with red fruits and oak. Vanilla and all spice.CS1/10/20http://falernia.com/
Fanoa2019ColchaguaSangioveseRed90Biodynamic. Not much information available on the winemaking. Nose is Mediteranean, but it takes me more to southern Rhone than Tuscany with garrigue and ripe red and dark fruits, but there’s a touch of balsamic notes making me think more of Tuscan Sangiovese. The palate has ripe red fruits, spice, licorice and some orange peel making it closer in acidity to Italian Sangiovese than most Chilean Sangiovese I’ve had but still sweeter than most Italian ones. Medium tannins for mid-term aging. There’s a little heat. Better with food.AC11/2/21https://www.facebook.com/fanoavinos/
Faraday Wines2022MisculareBlendBlendWhite90Moscatel from Itata and Chardonnay from Casablanca 50/50 Chardonnay spent 12 months in barrel with malolactic while the Moscatel sees only stainless steel without malo. Get some mild oak notes on nose but also floral rusticity of Moscatel. Good acidity with some savory and buttery notes on the backend. Medium body.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/faradaywines/
Faraday Wines2022MisculareBlendBlendRed90Pais (Itata)/Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo)- vinified separately (according to what is typical in their region like Raúli for the Pais and barrels for the Cab and then blended in Tagua Tagua. Quite floral and light on the nose with purple fruit more like Pais but with medium+ body, more tannic and acidic structure than Pais because of the Cab. Some mild vanilla and chocolate notes from the Cab aged in barrel.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/faradaywines/
Faraday Wines2022MisculareBlendBlendRed91Cinsault (Itata) Carmenere (Colchagua) same idea as the Cab-Pais blend. Taking the traditional winemaking from each place and then blended together. Creates a balance of the red fruit and floral notes of Cinsault and darker, spicy notes of Carmenere. A bit better integrated than the Cab-Pais. More perfumed.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/faradaywines/
Fernando Almeda2019AnduriñaCuricoAlbarinoWhite91Fernando Almeda is the former winemaker at Miguel Torres. This is the first vintage of this cuvee. Native yeasts. No wood. 8 months on lees in stainless steel tanks. However, with one of the tanks, he also developed a velo de flor (or a film of yeast). Fresh nose, with a bit of floral notes. A wine with lots of acid and minerality/salinity on the palate. This is not for those who like fruity or buttery Chardonnays. It’s more Old World and closer to Albarino I’ve experienced from Rias Baixas with the acidity and minerality perfect for seafood.AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/fernando_almeda_enologo/
Fernando Almeda2021AnduriñaCuricoAlbariñoWhiteLike the 2020 I tried, it’s super-fresh and some minerality. Almeda is a Spanish winemaker, formerly of Miguel Torres, so he’s definitely familiar with Spanish Albariño and this is definitely more in that style.AC3/30/23https://www.instagram.com/fernando_almeda_enologo/
Fernando Almeda2021Fuerza NaturalItataSemillonWhite8 months in tinajas. 100+ year old vines. Skin-contact fermentation. Has an herbal, dry leafy nose that leans towards what orange wines smell like but in a more subtle way. By the way, the color doesn’t look like an orange wine at all. The palate is round, medium+ acid with lots of savory notes on the back-end.AC3/30/23https://www.instagram.com/fernando_almeda_enologo/
Fernando Almeda2016MauleCarignanRed2 years in tinajas and 20% in old oak casks although he’s now trying not use any oak with this cuvee. Dry-farmed. Great acid and vivid cherry fruit yet the age gives it a smoothness and roundness. Shy nose, a little spice, but it should open with more air.AC3/30/23https://www.instagram.com/fernando_almeda_enologo/
Flaherty2016Redondo VineyardAconcaguaBlendRed9050% Syrah, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petite Sirah, 4% Tempranillo y 2% Malbec. PnP. Dark color. Nice ripe dark fruit nose-cassis, blueberry with some spice. Palate starts off with the same fruit flavors, some licorice. Soft tannins. Just barely keeps the 14.5% alcohol in check, at least with food. Low acid, at least the alcohol makes it feel low in acid. I like the nose, but the palate could be brighter and fresher with less alcohol. Wouldn’t necessarily think this was Chilean. Would think it was a modern Rhone or a Californian Rhone blend. Most of the grapes come from Vinedo Escorial near Panquehue. I think I liked the 2018 I had of this at the winery and the 2015 of this better. They were fresher. 3rd day: better integrated and expressive. Served cooler, so no heat this time. Fresher.AC3/25/20http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2018AconcaguaBlendRed90Syrah, Cabernet S., Petit Verdot, Tempranillo. Dark nose. Herbal. Medium acid. Balanced. Easy smooth texture. AC1/2/20http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2015AconcaguaSyrah blendRed90Balanced. Ripe, meaty, spicy. Blueberry. Dark but fresh. 50%syrah, 29%Petite Sirah, 15%Tempranillo and Malbec. AC6/5/18http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2017Casa del Magnolio 2 CepasMauleBlendWhite89Blend of Gewurztraminer (80) and Chardonnay (20)-fresh, light, peachy, floralAC1/2/20http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2017MauleBlendRed90Bigger and darker than the Aconcagua, but less acid. Similar silky feel. Some licorice notes. This is tempranillo, Petite Sirah, and Pais. AC1/2/20http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2017Casa del Magnolio 4 CepasMaule, AconcaguaBlendRed88Blend of Tempranillo and Pais from Maule and Syrah and Cabernet S. from Aconcagua. Some tobacco spice, vanilla. Dark fruit. Silky texture. Easy wine. A little bit of oak and heat. AC1/2/20http://flahertywines.com
Flaherty2015Maule, CauquenesBlendRed8852%Tempranillo, 40%Petite Sirah, 8% Pais. Only 120 cases made. Dark opaque color. Mediteranean herbs. Menthol. Vanilla oak. Medicinal. Chalky. Interesting, but not together at the moment.AC11/5/17http://flahertywines.com
FlahertyNVVinos del Arte MagnoliaMauleBlendWhite88Pais, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Traditional method. Quite a bready nose with a touch herbs and apple/pear fruit. The palate is definitely dry with a savory and spicy side to it on the backend. Would need more acidity and bubbles for me to think this was Champagne, but the nose is not far off (apparently spent 4 years on lees) and it’s definitely drier than most Chilean espumante.AC9/3/22https://flahertywines.com/
Flaherty2016Tequel Vineyard CauquenesMauleTempranillo, petit sirah, paísRed87Tempranillo 61%. Petit Sirah 35%. País 4%. Large body. A lot on the palate, maybe too much. Cassis and leather. Hint of menthol and pepper.CS11/6/19https://flahertywines.com/
Folatre2020Gran ReservaCuricoPinot NoirRed8810% new oak 9 months. Savory, tobacco nose. Palate also has some oak on the back end. Dark red fruit. Medium+ acid. Lacking mid-palate.AC10/1/22http://www.vinosfolatre.cl/
Folatre2019Estacion Pichaman AssemblageCuricoBlendRed90Less than 10,000 bottles made. 80% Carmenere. 20% Cabernet S. Fresh, red fruit side of Carmenere w/just some mild green pepper and herbal notes. Some floral notes too. Moderate tannins. 90+AC10/1/22http://www.vinosfolatre.cl/
Folatre2019Jackie OhCuricoBlendRed90Similar to the Pichaman, but it has 20% Merlot instead of Cabernet S. with the rest Carmenere. Also similar in style to the Pichaman except this is softer and little fruitier because of the Merlot. 90+AC10/1/22http://www.vinosfolatre.cl/
ForestalNVLa EscritoraMauleBlendSparkling88– Blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Charmat Method. Fruity nose, touch herbal with savory yeast. Med-low acid. Low amount of bubbles.AC4/22/23https://forestalwines.cl/
ForestalNVLa FotografaMaulePinot NoirSparkling88shy nose, a bit yeasty. High acid and more bubbles than the La Escritora. Both would be a lot better combined together.AC4/22/23https://forestalwines.cl/
Forestal?El PintorColchaguaCarmenereRed90Ripe nose, mild pyrazine, dried herbal notes. Smooth, round. Dark red fruit palate. Medium acid.AC4/22/23https://forestalwines.cl/
Franco Wines2019EnsamblajeCasablancaMerlot & SyrahRed88Merlot and Syrah blend. Feels more Merlot. Spends a bit of time in used oak, but it's ultimately a simple fruity wine. Fruity nose with a touch of floral notes and easy drinking palate. Decent acidity. Drinks like a solid fruity Chilean Merlot. This is from the same winemaker as Vina Casablanca.AC11/27/20https://www.facebook.com/%F0%9D%94%BD%F0%9D%95%A3%F0%9D%95%92%F0%9D%95%9F%F0%9D%95%94%F0%9D%95%A0-%F0%9D%95%8E%F0%9D%95%9A%F0%9D%95%9F%F0%9D%95%96%F0%9D%95%A4-105069627904127/
Francois Lurton2014Gran AraucanoColchaguaCabernet S.Red92Also called "Gran Lurton" on some labels. High tone ripe fruit on the nose. Baking spice. Almost Bordeaux like. Palate is ripe dark red fruit. Modern palate, but it's not over the top. 92+AC3/15/19https://www.francoislurton.cl/en/
Francois Lurton2015ReserveColchaguaCabernet S.Red85A bit synthetic, hollow. Simple fruity wine. AC8/10/18https://www.francoislurton.cl/
Francois Lurton2015Araucano Humo Blanco Edicion LimitadaColchagua, LololPinot NoirRed85Not much on nose. Floral. Citrus. Palate doesn't taste like Pinot. Oaky. Hot. Generic. Some structure. AC10/29/17https://www.francoislurton.cl/en/
Francois Lurton2015Araucano Clos de Lolol Colchagua, LololRed BlendRed90Syrah, Carmenere, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet S., with a little Petit Verdot. No heat despite the 14.5% alcohol. Still modern in style with dark fruit and vanilla oak. Some roasted pepper, herbal and coffee. Savoury notes. Low acid. AC2/10/19https://www.francoislurton.cl/
Francois Lurton2018Humo Blanco Colchagua, LololSyrahRed89Some herbal savoury notes. Lighter and fresher style of Syrah. AC4/26/19https://www.francoislurton.cl/
Francois Lurton2016Reserva de la HaciendaCentral ValleyChardonnayWhite81Missed. Off balanced. Flavors and aromas all over the place. Still drinkable. CS3/16/20http://www.francoislurton.com/
Francois Lurton2015ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red92Surprisingly nice acidity with a fruit forward balance on the palate.CS4/4/20http://www.francoislurton.com/
Francois Lurton2015Gran Cuvée Humo BlancoColchaguaPinot NoirRed93Pronounced eucalyptus. Classic sour cherry with oak aging notes of vanilla and a small faint wiff of tobacco.CS3/17/20https://www.francoislurton.cl/
Francois Lurton2018Edición Limitada Humo BlancoColchaguaSauvignon BlancWhite88Ripe green apple, tropical, grassy with hints of lemon zest and pear.CS4/22/20https://www.francoislurton.cl/
Fuy2018Grand ReserveLeydaPinot NoirRed 88A new 3-year-old independent project from Cristian Goich, who also produces El Portazo wines. 40% aged 8 months in used French oak barrels. Some reduction on the nose, which is dominated by savory notes. There’s a touch of floral notes and of red fruit, but it’s a savory wine overall. On the palate, there’s cherry and a bit of spice. Rather short and simple on the midpalate. Overall, a savory Pinot. Not for those who like fruity wines.AC8/6/21https://www.facebook.com/fuy.wines/
Fuy2021Entre La Niebla Vinedo NancuanOsornoPinot NoirRed89From around Rio Negro, floral nose, bright red fruit. Light fruity entry with some spice on the backend. 30% barrels. The rest in amphorae. AC4/22/23http://fuywines.com/
Fuy2023LontuéRieslingWhite8990% stainless steel, 10% barrels. Less than 3000 bottles made. Citrus and floral nose. White fruit. Typical high acid, light+ palate. Fades a bit on the backend. Some spice.AC4/6/24http://fuywines.com/
Fuy2022OsornoChardonnayWhite9150% in stainless steel and 50% in barrel for 10 months. Less than 900 bottles made. Shy nose but with floral, white fruit like pear and oak notes. Probably too cold. The palate strikes a nice balance of ripe fruit, acid and savory oak notes with stony mineral and fresh mountain water notes.AC4/6/24http://fuywines.com/
Garage Wine Co2016Lot 76 Bagual VineyardMauleBlendRed93Mostly Carignan with some Garnacha and Mataro. Starts off shy on the nose with dried herbal notes and a little uneven on the palate. Midpalate lacking. A touch bitter. However, after an hour the nose adds expressive fruit with baking spices and the palate fills out. Still showing plenty of acidity and tannins without food, but really gets quite elegant and seamless with bright red fruit. AC4/2/23https://garagewine.company/
Garage Wine Co.2016Lot 81Maipo, San Juan de PirqueCabernet S.Red93This wine surprises you with its elegance despite the name making you think this will be rustic homemade wine. The nose is ripe with some Chilean herbal notes, but it's well integrated. The palate is silky smooth and effortless with dark ripe fruit, but keeping fresh. Less than 500 cases made. 5% Cabernet Franc also used in the blend. AC12/25/19https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2015Las Higueras Lot 72MauleCabernet FrancRed92After 15 minutes, the nose really opens up with pretty floral notes you get from good Cabernet Franc. Ripe blueberry and dark raspberry. There’s a little mint and vegetal notes, but it’s mostly about the floral notes. The palate is silky, cool with similar floral and fruit notes. Medium acid. There’s plenty of tannic structure without food, but it’s definitely drinkable now with food and 30 minutes of air. Served at cellar temperature, so it could open up some more. Comes from 110+ year old dry-farmed bush head vines. Around 5,000 bottles made. I’ll admit that finding above average Cabernet Franc is not easy in Chile, so this could be the best of the best out there. Perhaps only the Vina Maquis Franco, which is 3-4 times the price, is on par with this one. 92+AC10/11/20https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2014Truquilemu Lot 57MauleCarignanRed93Great nose. Vibrant red fruit. Garrigue. Minerality. Balsamic, spice, cinnamon. Palate is red fruit and tangy. Needs big food. This is about 30 dollars. Garage wine is the product of a Canadian winemaker married to a Chilean. They try to use traditional local methods in making their wines. AC1/19/19https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2013Bagual Vineyard Lot 49MauleGarnacha blendRed92bright berry fruit, garrigue, forest floor, pepper, a rustic Chateauneuf du PapeAC8/12/17https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2016Secano MaulePaisRed88Mute nose, earthy, animal, punchy fruit, some spice. light bodied.AC8/9/17https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2016Lot 75 SauzalMauleCarignan blendRed9250% Carignan 33% Garnacha 17% Mataró; 1901 bottles filled. Alcohol: 13,7 pH 3,32; Still quite young. Takes 30+ minutes for the nose to open up and for the tannins to soften up with some food. The nose features bright fruit, herbs, minerality. A bit of citrus, floral notes, and balsamic notes. Maybe it was the mushrooms I was having with it, but it also has an earthy side. The palate is a contrast of heaps of acidity yet smooth elegant texture. I still think this needs time. The top Chilean Carignan need at least 4-5 years with its acidic structure. I think this will get better, but the nose is already quite complex. 92+.AC4/8/21https://garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2018Lot #84Maule - EmpedradoSyrahRed94This is Garage Wine Co’s first varietal Syrah cuvee. Dry-farmed. Granite soils. Native yeasts. 20% stems re-added. 2 years in neutral oak. The nose starts off rather savory and meaty, but it becomes more about ripe candied fruit and floral notes with plus intensity. The palate also features juicy and fresh dark berry fruit notes. Lots of acidity for a Syrah at 3.2 PH. There’s tannic structure too, but it’s they’re fairly smooth and approachable with food. 94+AC5/10/22https://www.garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2016Lot 80 Pirque, MaipoCabernet FrancRed91Native yeasts, open top fermenters, 2 years in third use barrels. Oakier than I thought it would be given there's no new oak. Chocolate and vanilla. Dark berry fruit. Fairly standard Maipo Bordeaux variety wine. Creamy feel but still plenty of tannins. Around 250 cases made. I prefer their Maule Cabernet Franc to this one because this one feels more typcal of what you find in Maipo, which is good and more modern but less unique. Harder to tell this is Cab Franc.AC5/28/22https://www.garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2021Passageiro (Escondido)MauleNegromoll (San Francisco)Red91floral, fruity with slight herbal side. Sort of Beaujolais like. Low acid. A little more depth and body than past San Francisco I've tried.AC11/10/23https://www.garagewineco.cl/
Garage Wine Co.2022Isidore VineyardMauleSemillonOrange92Around 9 months Skin contact. Lots of acidity. Can't quite place the nose, but it's sort of toasty, subtle but pretty. With honey, fruit and good piercing acidity. Has potential. Derek says they've put 1,000 bottles away to see how they age and to release in 5 years.92+AC11/10/23https://www.garagewineco.cl/
Garces Silva2017AmaynaLeydaPinot NoirRed9113 months in French oak, mostly 2nd and 3rd use. Nose of dark cherry and some smoky spicy notes. A bit meaty. The palate shows dark cherry, a streak of grapefruit acidity, a touch of something savory and cola. It’s a dark Pinot, more towards California than most Chilean Pinot. The 14% alcohol and oak are well integrated with good acidity though. There are no hard edges. It’s well made and a step up from the Boya.AC7/31/20https://www.vgs.cl/
Garces Silva2016BoyaLeydaPinot NoirRed89Screw top. Leathery spice. Minerality. Ripe red fruit. A bit hot at first. Definitely on the modern side. This producer all makes the Amayna series which are more expensive in a similar modern styleAC11/25/18https://www.vgs.cl/
Garces Silva2021AmaynaLeydaSyrahRed90Meaty nose with dark fruit. The palate is dark and rich, medium body and medium-low acid. Less acid than average cool coast Chilean Syrah but not flabby.AC3/16/24https://www.vgs.cl/
Garces Silva2022AmaynaLeydaPinot NoirRed91Floral, red fruit nose but the palate adds a dark fruit, smoky, meaty, savory component yet with high acidity. I don't remember this producer having such tart Pinots, but the dark, meaty Syrah like profile, I do remember.AC3/16/24https://www.vgs.cl/
Garces Silva2022BoyaLeydaPinot NoirRose89Fruity and tart but with some ocean salt. Nose a bit shy.AC3/16/24https://www.vgs.cl/
Garcia Schwaderer2012VignoLoncomilla, MauleCarignanRed91Subtle but complex nose. Red fruit, earth, savoury herbs, baking spce, minerality. Palate is quite tart, sour cherry and raspberry. A little balsamic. No hard edges. Only around 300 cases made. Like many Vigno, very Italian in style with the acidity. AC10/18/18http://www.psgarcia.cl/?list12=7
Garcia Schwaderer2012FacundoMaule, Itata, ColchaguaBlendRed91Carignan, CS, Petit Verdot, Cab Franc, Good acidity. Dark cherry. Balsamic. Savoury herbs. spicy oak. No hard edges. Could be a Tuscan wine. AC12/14/17http://www.psgarcia.cl/?list12=7
GemmaNVMetodo Tradicional, RoseLimariChardonnay, pinot noirSparkling92Rosé. Made using classic traditional method. Persistant bubbles. Small bubbles. Floral aroma with notes of toast and a fresh and clean aftertaste. CS2/2/20https://gemmalimari.cl/en/
GemmaNVMetodo Tradicional, RoseLimariChardonnay, pinot noirSparkling9024+ months in bottle. I couldn’t find information about the dosage or other aspects of the winemaking other than it’s traditional method. I assume the wine was fermented and aged in stainless steel before bottling. On the rather shy nose, there’s red fruit, a touch of bready notes but more about minerality and salinity. The palate is fruity but tangy and dry with medium level of bubbles. On the second day, the nose opens up more and becomes more floral. I’ll give it an extra point. AC12/23/22https://gemmalimari.cl/en/
Gillmore2014MariposaLoncomilla, MauleSyrah, MerlotRed8950/50 Syrah-Merlot. Ripe dark fruit, good acidity. Touch of wood. Medium bodied. Yummy but simple wine. AC11/21/17https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2012Hacedor de Mundos Reserva-Tabontinaja VineyardMauleCabernet FrancRed90Smoky, herby and floral nose. Cool fruit. Menthol. Raspberry. Vanilla. Baking Spice. Med-low acid. AC12/11/17https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2012VIGNOMaule, LoncomillaCarignanRed91Nose slowly opens up to herbal and hightone dark red berry fruit. Palate smooth with some balsamic, menthol, vanilla, and juicy acidity. Balanced. 833 cases made. AC11/5/19https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2012VIGNOMaule, LoncomillaCarignanRed90Starts off a bit flat, low acid, round and dark, but the acidity builds into dark but sour cherries, spices. Could be in decline. AC11/13/24https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2014VIGNOMaule, LoncomillaCarignanRed92From magnum. This is a lot fresher. Still tannic. Acidic, but also more fruit than 2012 at this stage. This is more at its peak.AC11/13/24https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2015Hacedor de MundosMauleCabernet FrancRed92Nose with spice, herbal and floral notes. The palate is quite juicy, with dark berry fruit. Riper than some Cab Franc but with good acidity. Some spice. Medium bodied. No hard edges.AC12/5/21https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2019MauleSagrantinoRed901,609 bottles made. 18 months barrel aging. Alluvial clay and rocky soil. Dry-farmed. Bright purple, youthful color. Roundy and fruity wine. Dark and red berry fruit. Medium tannins and acid. This is probably the first all Sagrantino wine made in Chile. AC4/23/22https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2020MauleSagrantinoRed91dark, high alcohol but the heat is just barely held in check. Definitely some tannins, medium acid. There's a a spicy, savory side to it too. Some floral, candied fruit notes. Rich. Dark cherry. Aging in used barrels around 18 months. Still needs time to soften up.AC11/10/23https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2020MauleMontepulcianoRed90- obviously softer and fruitier, juicier than the Sagrantino, but more tannic than most Italian Montepulciano I've had. Similar style to Sangrantino, but less comlex. Think this will get better. Needs time to soften up though.AC11/10/23https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2014Hacedor de MundosMauleCabernet FrancRed9150 year old vines; clay and rocky soil. 18 months in barrel. Good acid. Lots of oak notes, but integrated along with Cabernet Franc peppery, herbal notes. Juicy palate. Still present tannic structure. Verging on dried fruit and mushroom flavors from the age. 5,000 bottles made. You can age this some more to get more full-on tertiary notes because there’s enough tannins and acidity to keep it longer.AC5/28/22https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2020MauleCiliegioloRed90Dry-farmed. Stainless steel fermentation. 8 months in oak barrels. 1,625 bottles made. Ciliegiolo is a lesser-known variety grown in central Italy in places like Liguria and Tuscany. However, given the trends towards lighter, fresher wines, it’s been used to blend with bigger red varieties. I’ve only had it in Tuscan Sangiovese based wines as 10% or less of the wine. Gillmore in Maule has a whole line of Italian varieties and is the only Chilean producer I know that produces this variety. The nose exhibits red and purple fruit with some violet. The palate shows cherry fruit, soft tannins, vibrant acidity and a touch of spice. Medium-bodied. It’s nice and zippy on the palate, but the alcohol is high which makes it less compatible with peppery or spicy foods since the alcohol may accentuate the heat. Would work well with savory pasta dishes or pizza, but not pepperoni pizza or Arrabbiata sauced pasta.AC12/18/23https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gillmore2022Maule LoncomillaVermentinoWhite91Fermented and aged 10 months in oak. The color is light yellow with a tinge of green. The nose starts off rather leesy with some herbal notes but more fruit and floral notes emerge with some air. The palate starts with a ripe green apple and finishes with a salty and then slightly bitter citrus peel side with medium+ acid. It’s also medium-bodied with some oily roundness. A middle of the road style with some varietal characteristiscs. Seems like the barrels were neutral because not much influence that I can detect. 1,819 bottles made.AC9/16/24https://gillmorewines.cl/
Gonzalez Bastias2019Tierra MadreMauleBlendWhite92Light clear golden color. It doesn’t look obviously unfiltered. The first whiff and taste gives you the richness and roundness of the Semillon with a bit of honey, but it soons develops more Torontel notes like white flowers. There’s a lot of minerality. A bit of pear and green apples. Juicy acidity. Overall, I’m impressed. AC2/24/21https://vinosgonzalezbastias.com/en/home/
Gonzalez Bastias 2019MatorralMaulePaisRed91100% Pais. Made from 200+ year old bush vines, dryfarmed over granite soils. Manually crushed over these bamboo mats called Zaranda. Native yeast used. No press juice. Unfiltered. Aged 12 months in traditional extremely old large barrels made from Rauli, a type of beech tree native to Chile. 12.8% alcohol. 15,500 bottles made. The nose is pretty and rather complex with red berry fruit, floral notes, and earthy herbal notes. The palate is simple and very light with red fruit, a bit of stony minerality and mint. Medium acid. It’s as light on the palate as some roses I’ve had. It’s very easy to drink and versatile with food, Probably the lighest and most feminine Pais I’ve had, but there’s still enough complexity, especially on the nose, to make it interesting. It lacks the rustic qualities some Pais and natural wines have.AC10/9/20http://www.vinosgonzalezbastias.com/
Gonzalez Bastias 2019Pais en TinajaMaulePaisRed90Mainly different from their Matorral in how it’s aged, in that they age the wine 12 months in large clay jars rather than restored old rauli wood containers. The clay amphorae themselves are 300 years old. A little more acidity with a bit of spritz at first. It’s earthier, with clay, herbs and spice rather than floral notes. Overall, it feels darker even though there’s more acidity, and it’s less fruity. 6600 bottles made.AC10/19/20http://www.vinosgonzalezbastias.com/
Gran Hidalgo2018Vigia Cauquenes, MauleCabernet S.Red91good acidity, ripe dark and red fruits but there’s an earthy and herbal savory streak to this wine with a touch of spice. Well-balanced. Soft-tannins for a Cab. Only 6 months in old oak barrels. Unfiltered. 13.5% alcohol.AC2/16/21http://vinagranhidalgo.cl/
Gran Hidalgo2019VigiaCauquenes, MauleCinsaultRed90small production and still an experimental wine for this producer. Some vegetal and floral notes on the nose, Some earthiness. Fresh palate. Dark berry fruit. A little dark and fuller than most Cinsault from Itata, so perhaps that’s the difference in terroir with Cauquenes, but Cauquenes is at the southern end of Maule and closer to Itata. Solid overall, but just less distinctive.AC2/16/21http://vinagranhidalgo.cl/
Gran Hidalgo2019VigiaCauquenes, MaulePaisRed90Made from nearly 100-year-old dry-farmed vines. This fits in between the more natural/traditional versions of Pais and the more modern styles. It has a bit of the funky, herbal earthiness that Pais can have, but it’s balanced by the fruity strawberry notes. The palate is fresh and light with more of that strawberry, watermelon jollyrancher flavor. Medium acidity. 12.6% alcohol.AC2/16/21http://vinagranhidalgo.cl/
Gran Hidalgo2020Vigia AsoleadoCauquenes, MauleCabernet S.DessertNRmade from Cabernet Sauvignonn. Spends 1 extra month to dry on the vines. Overall, it’s a sweet cherry licor with a touch of spice. Asoleado is D.O. of Cauquenes' red late harvest wines but each producer lets their grapes dry in a different method. AC2/16/21http://vinagranhidalgo.cl/
Granjas MYM2021YidaColchaguaMoscatel de FrontignanOrange89This is definitely a dry Moscatel. However, it’s also definitely an orange wine in character. It’s a light orange color with a vegetal, leafy, spicy nose with some apple cidery notes. More beer-like than wine on the nose, which is what I often find in orange wines. The palate reminds me of peach ice tea, but a little more bitter and less sweet than most. There's good acidity. The midpalate is lacking a bit. There’s a tiny bit of tannins.AC9/23/22granjas.mym@gmail.com
Hacienda Chada2013Maipo AltoBlendRed91A produce farm (mostly making fruits and nuts) that recently decided to dedicate around 26% of their production into making wines too. Stefano Gandolini is the winemaker. 75% Cabernet S. 14% Cabernet Franc 11% Petit Verdot. Wax capsule. PnP. Nose reticent and a little musty at first. Becomes sort of leafy, chocolate and oak dominated but still rather subtle. Palate takes time too, but reveals big dark raspberry and dark cherry fruit with chocolate. Despite feeling rather dark fruited and being quite dark in color, there’s a big streak acidity. With food, it keeps its 14.5% alcohol well but there’s just a tad bit too much oak right now that needs to be integrated. Tannins are soft. AC4/7/20https://www.chadawines.cl/en/home/
Hacienda el Melon2018Kumbres PremiumAconcaguaBlendRed90Aconcagua 20 months in 2nd use barrels. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon with some Carmenere and Cabernet Franc. Only 15,149 bottles made. Smoky, herbal, tomato leaf nose. Palate is super silky with dark ripe fruit, spice. Medium-low acid, but didn’t feel flabby. Still tannins to resolve. 90+AC4/22/23https://haciendaelmelon.com/en/home/
Hacienda San Juan?LeydaPinot NoirRed90A big, spicy, relatively full Pinot with good acidic structure and some tannins. Higher alcohol than most though. Had it next to some village level Burgundy and it held its own. AC4/1/22http://haciendasanjuan.cl/
Hacienda San Juan2016LeydaPinot NoirRed91Biodynamic. Very floral, red fruit ripe and fresh. minerally. Reminds me of a nice Beaujolais Cru.AC11/23/18http://haciendasanjuan.cl/
Hacienda San Juan2020CasablancaChardonnayWhite90Blind Tasted: Most oak and malolactic, most open of the whites. Floral notes, more oxidation. Most creamy. Lowest acid. More modern new world style but not over the top. AC4/27/23http://haciendasanjuan.cl/
Hacienda San Juan2017LeydaPinot NoirRed90Dark but not opaque color. Spicy red with refined, round tannins. Ripe dark fruit with medium acid and body. Feels low intervention with native yeasts.AC2/29/24http://haciendasanjuan.cl/
Hacienda San Juan2018CasablancaChardonnayWhite91Lemon, floral, white fruit notes. Some oak notes mixed in. Fresher than other versions I've had of this with better integration of the oak, so age may have helped it. 91 The second bottle we had of this had more oxidative notes if you like more advanced whites.AC3/16/24http://haciendasanjuan.cl/
Hacienda ValdeperilloNVBodega Ergo Grape-AleAconcagua / Marga MargaSyrahBeerLocated in Limache. They mix blonde ale with Syrah must. Biodynamic. Some yeast and honey notes with fresh berries. Good for Belgian beer lovers who like fruity beers.AC12/7/22https://www.haciendavaldeperillo.com/
Haras de Pirque2016GalantasMaipoCabernet FrancRed90This would technically have been made under the Antinori team who bought the winery in 2014. Red fruit, nose of roasted peppers, coffee. Elegant feel. Still young and austere. AC10/14/18https://www.harasdepirque.com/
Haras de Pirque2013Hussonet Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red89Recently bought by famous Italian producer Antinori, but this was made before he bought it. Riper nose than most from this region. Palate-creme de cassis, good acidity. Spice, coffee, vanilla oak. Mid-palate a bit hollow. A modern middle of the road Cab. AC3/31/18https://www.harasdepirque.com/
Haras de Pirque2013Hussonet Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red88A little flat compared to the last time I had it. Darker and spicy. Some excess heat and oak. AC10/14/18https://www.harasdepirque.com/
Haras de Pirque2018Hussonet Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red90Typical international style Cabernet with ripe cassis, dusty notes and chocolate. It carries through to the palate with a creamy feel, noticeable, but soft tannins that faded with food. Full-bodied. Medium acid. Some spice. The oak is well integrated. Bargain quality Cabernet.AC6/17/22https://haraswines.com/en/
Herrera-Alvarado2019Oro NegroMarga MargaPaisRedNAOld-vine Pais fermented whole-cluster in bull-skins (although they call it “cuero de vaca” = cow-skin leather, it’s technically “cuero de buey” =bull/ox skin leather). It ages 15+ months in old barrels. Like all their wines, there’s no fining, filtering or sulfites added. There’s a lot of strawberry and chalky minerality. Rather tannic for a Pais. Maybe the lack of filtering gives it that chewiness.AC11/24/20https://www.facebook.com/Vi%C3%B1edos-Herrera-Alvarado-710482469003806
Herrera-Alvarado2019Rojo LocoMarga MargaPais BlendRedNAIt’s a field blend of mostly Pais and other local grapes, much like Pipeno wines are a field blend of Pais and other local grapes down south in Maule and Itata. Their wine includes Moscatel Rosada and Cristal (Blanca Ovoid). It’s aged in old used barrels. It has a more Rose color. It’s zesty, spicy, minerally and slightly spritzy. A perfect summer wine.AC11/24/20https://www.facebook.com/Vi%C3%B1edos-Herrera-Alvarado-710482469003806
Herrera-Alvarado2018La ZarandaMarga MargaSauvignon BlancWhiteNAIt's destemmed and pressed using a Zaranda (a wooden mat), the same that is used with a lot of traditional Pais wines in the Maule Valley. It’s fermented and aged in cement tanks. It has an savory herbal and floral nose with a light and tangy palate.AC11/24/20https://www.facebook.com/Vi%C3%B1edos-Herrera-Alvarado-710482469003806
Hoops by Caviahue2016MaipoBlendRed89Only 285 bottle made from the owner's front yard. Blend of Carmenere with some Malbec and Petit Verdot. Unpretentious but easy to drink. Fruit forward, fresh. AC11/23/18https://www.facebook.com/hoopsbycaviahue/
Hoops by Caviahue2017MaipoBlendRed89+Guy Hooper, who works on the commercial side with De Martino makes this wine from his 627 vine 1 acre front yard. It's all natural and all done by hand with the help of his family and friends. A blend of Carmenere, Petit Verdot, Malbec and a little Syrah. He lets nature decide the blend by taking whichever produced the best grapes and whichever were spared from the birds eating them. This vintage was more Petit Verdot and Malbec than Carmenere. 2017 was a hot vintage. Aged in a used barrel. Only 269 bottles made. Nose has high tone ripe fruit, but a bit closed. Palate has some spice and vanilla, red fruit. Some floral notes and hints of wood. A little heat. Needs more time. This bottle will be released in a few months. Certainly not your typical Chilean wine.AC8/8/19https://www.facebook.com/hoopsbycaviahue/
Hope Valley2021Lo VividoColchaguaMalbecRed8910-12 months 3rd to 4th use oak. FYI Wines were served too warm. Fruity, some chocolate. However, nice freshness on the palate. Lighter than Mendoza Malbec.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinoshopevalley/
Hope Valley2021Lo ValgoColchaguaCarmenereRed8810-12 months oak used oak. Typical nose with mild green notes. The palate is fresh with dark and red fruits but a bit hot due to the alcohol. Medium bodied.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinoshopevalley/
Hope Valley2020Doña Yolanda Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet SauvignonRed9020 months used oak. The best nose. More complex. More oak influence but well integrated. Stays fresh but a bit less acid. More tannic. Menthol. Some heat but less than the Carmenere.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinoshopevalley/
Hope Valley2023Layito Late HarvestColchaguaSemillonDessert89Honey and floral nose. Only moderately thick for a late harvest. Medium acid. Not cloying but not super complex on the palate. Still young.AC12/7/24https://www.instagram.com/vinoshopevalley/
Huaso de Sauzal2016MauleGarnachaRed89Anise and Licorice! And lots, lots of it. Red fruits secondary with a hint of menthol. CS10/11/19renancancinoa@gmail.com
Indomita2018DuetteCasablancaPinot NoirRed92Tasted at the Casablanca Harvest Festival. My favorite of the day. Complex earthy nose, floral notes with ripe red fruit. Palate had a nice strawberry flavor and weightless mouthfeel. Fresh.AC3/31/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2018Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed88More California Pinot style. Dark and spicy. Medium acid.AC7/4/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2018DuetteCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Not as good as I remember from last time. Minerality. Earthy. Tart red fruit. But a little rough onthe back end. A little thicker than most. Darker. AC9/5/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2018Gran ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite90Tasted on multiple occasions and fairly consistent. Spends 6 months in oak. A little spice. Herbaceous and citrus notes. A little oilier than most, but stays crisp.AC7/4/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2017ZardozMaipoCabernet S.Red89+Oaky nose. Dark juicy fruit. Medium acid. Savoury back end. Takes time to open.AC8/18/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2017ZardozMaipoCabernet S. Red89+2 years new French oak. Dark and spicy nose. Medium acidity. Some menthol heat. Some tannic structure that needs to soften up. Modern style. A little expensive for a Chilean cab at 25 dollars. AC7/4/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2018Gran ReservaMauleCarignanRed88Dark cherry, medium acid. Spice. Round and easy. More modern interpretation of Maule carignan. Less acid. AC7/4/19http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Indomita2018Selected VarietalCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red85Cheap range of wine. Not complex nor excited contimplation. Good for a budget, simple cabernet.CS1/15/20http://www.indomita.cl/en/
Ineditas Terroir Sonoro2019Reptiliano SingularItataMoscatelOrangeN/AMuscat de Alejandria from Florida. Fermented with skins in an open tank for 15 days then lightly pressed, put in foudres to develop a veil of flor along with vibrations from a soundtrack made for this wine. Unfiltered and unfined. This one obviously stood out as the only non-red. A couple thought it reminded them of Manzanilla sherry on the nose, which makes sense given the veil of flor. However, it also had typical orange wine vegetal, leafy side but not overly so. There's good acidity with a citrus peel aspect. Medium body. Apricot. It's an orange wine that's approachable for non-natural wine geeks.AC1/14/23https://www.terroirsonoro.cl/
Ineditas Terroir Sonoro2017TInto NitantoItataBlendRedN/ABlend of 45% Cinsault 45% País 5% Cabernet Sauvignon y 5% de Malbec. Traditional winemaking with zaranda but no wood aging at all. People compared it to Beaujolais, and the light, fruity and natural side makes it taste like some traditional Beaujolais. Some tobacco and pepper. There are some floral notes too. Medium-low acid.AC1/14/23https://www.terroirsonoro.cl/
Ineditas Terroir Sonoro2015TartufoBio-BioMalbecRedN/ADark fruit, plums oriented, with some chocolate, spice and medium-low acid.AC1/14/23https://www.terroirsonoro.cl/
Ineditas Terroir Sonoro2015El PerseguidorBio-BioMalbecRedN/AFrom 150 year old Malbec vines in San Rosendo. Aged 12 months in barrel where the lees are suspended by the vibrations of jazz music. Also dark fruit, plums oriented, with some chocolate, spice and medium-low acid, but this had more vivid flavors and seamless feel than the Tartufo.More oak notes too, but they're well-integrated.AC1/14/23https://www.terroirsonoro.cl/
InicioNVExtra Metodo Tradicional BrutCasablancaChardonnaySparkling90Traditional method. Complex aroma and body. High acidity. Citrus notes, green apple, toast.CS2/14/20http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
InquietoNVMetodo Tradicional BrutCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling89Good body and zesty acidity. Lemon zest, grapefruit notes with a pear finish.CS2/14/20http://www.ocwines.cl/indexhome.html
Instinto2020AlvinoLeydaBlendWhite89I’m not clear what the blend is. Past vintages say 50% Chardonnay and 50% Riesling. I was told this had Sauvignon Blanc in it. The winemaking is unclear too. Some sources say it was vinified and aged in oak for 10 months. There was possibly malolactic. The nose was quite vegetal and herbal for me with some creaminess, Medium bodied and medium acid. Given the region, I was expecting more acidity. Other than the vegetal side on the nose, it comes across as a middle of the road Chardonnay.AC8/27/22https://www.instintowines.cl/
Invitis2015Limited EditionCachapoalCabernet FrancRed87Slightly herbal. Black pepper, dried plum.CS9/1/19https://villasenorwines.com/index-invitis
Invitis2017Single VineyardsCachapoalTempranilloRed82Off balance. Notes of some vanilla. Medium body.CS9/1/19https://villasenorwines.com/index-invitis
Invitis2016Single VineyardsCuricoCarignanRed82Off balanced, medium tannins and body. Plum aromas.CS9/1/19https://villasenorwines.com/index-invitis
Iolani2018ShipwreckMaipoCabernet S.Red91Everything is organic and done manually. They use natural yeasts and minimal sulfites. Wines are fermented in stainless steel and then stored temporarily in plastic bottles. Illani is not a fan of tannic and oaky wines, so there’s no wood at all. Then it spends 1 year in the ocean off the coast of Chañaral de Aceituno. The color is darker, denser than the one not aged in the ocean. The nose is completely different. There’s a minerality and salinity that for lack of a better description reminds me of the ocean. The palate is more concentrated like the color and more silky and rounder in feel while it has about the same amount of acidity as the non-ocean aged wine. There’s also a violet floral component to it. Both wines are low and soft in tannins for a Cabernet and both exhibited a touch of alcoholic heat at first that dissipated. Neither had any typical Chilean pyrazine notes.AC6/8/22https://iolani.cl/
Iolani2022ShipwreckMaipoCabernet S.RedBesides the usual Cabernet they produce from their vineyard in Peñalolén, Maipo, they’re now experimenting with Sauvignon Blanc, Pais, and a sweet white blend of Torontel/Moscatel sourced from Maule and wine made from table grapes grown on their own property. All the wines were taken out from a year in the ocean the previous day and compared with the exact same wine that was aged a year on land. The 2022 Shipwreck ocean-aged wine had similar dark fruity, spice, cola and licorice notes as the land aged one, but as was the case with all the ocean-aged wines we tasted, it tasted more evolved (or more gracefully evolved), integrated and smoother with more length. It fills the palate more. Some of the other wines had salinity which could come from the ocean influence, but didn’t get it so much here. It’s more tannic than the 2018 I had, but I drank that one at 4 years of age while this was 1.5 years old, so it makes sense. We theorize that perhaps motion of the ocean causes the bit of oxygen under the cork to interact faster and more gracefully with the ocean aged wine than the one on the land making it more ready to drink early, but since it has cool temperatures, humidity and no outside oxygen, it should still age longer in theory than the land version if kept under the ocean.AC11/26/23https://iolani.cl/
Iolani2023Shipwreck?Sauvignon BlancRed92Heightened aromatics. Floral, mildly green but also salinity. Ocean influence? The palate also has above average length and more salinity on the back end than average SB. AC12/7/24https://iolani.cl/
Iolani2023ShipwreckMaule?Rose89Unknown variety but it's a pink variety. Probably some cross or mutation of Moscatel like Pastilla (Moscatel Rosado) Tastes natural yeasts. Floral. Perhaps a field blend. Low acid. Sort peachy. Sort of tannic. Not a typical rosé. more like a light red which it is. Reminds me of some Chacolí wines I've had from Cachapoal but a little cleaner.AC12/7/24https://iolani.cl/
Itata Paraiso Portezuelo2019ItataCarignanRedRed fruit. Tangy & Savory at the same time. Medium tannins.AC11/6/21https://itataparaiso.com/
Itata Paraiso Portezuelo2019ItataPais RedFresh & fruity. Floral. Mineral. Herbal. 150 year old vines. 30% stems. A complete Pais.AC11/6/21https://itataparaiso.com/
Itata Paraiso Portezuelo2019ItataCabernet S.Rednot a common varietal in Itata. Also rare that it’s dry-farmed and ungrafted. Big acid red fruit you rarely find in Cabernet. Good concentration of fruit while also showing its pyrazine notes. Medium tannins.AC11/6/21https://itataparaiso.com/
Itata Paraíso Wine2018Blanco ParaísoItataMuscatelWhite90Nice minerality here, notes of honey and peach. Nicely balanced and easy to drink.CS9/1/19https://itataparaiso.com/
Itata Paraíso Wines2015ParaisoItataPaísRed86Slight elevated alcohol. Simple red fruit. Fruit forward.CS9/4/19https://itataparaiso.com/
J Bouchon2016Canto SurMauleBlendRed9050% Carmenere, 25% Carignan, 25% Pais. Fresh fruity nose, herby, smooth. Good acidity. Reminds me of Tuscan wines. AC11/2/17https://bouchonfamilywines.com/en/
J Bouchon2017SalvajeMaulePaisRed88Red fruit. Strawberry. Dusty. Floral. Menthol. Made from wild grown Pais and native yeast. As usual, Pais is like a rustic Beaujolais. AC6/14/18https://bouchonfamilywines.com/en/j-bouchon/
J Bouchon2020ReservaMauleCarmenereRed86Toasty wood, touch of vanilla, chocolate and ripe dark red fruit. Very little of the typical green pepper notes. The palate is simple and easy. Lacks mid-palate or length but no hard edges. Dark fruit with a little red fruit to give it some acidity. Ultimately a fruity wine that shouldn't offend anyone. Normally sells for around 5k pesos in Chile.AC11/1/21https://bouchonfamilywines.com/en/
J. Bouchon2020GranitoMauleSemillonWhite93100% Semillon from vines planted in 1940’s in Maule Secano Interior (30 km from the ocean). Granite soil. Handpicked. Whole bunch vertical press. Barrel fermented with native yeasts in French oak. Aged 70% in foudre and 30% in French oak barrels for 12 months. 3.16 PH.
Lightest in color of all the Semillon. So salty with flinty minerality on the nose and palate with citrus. A bit toasty. After an hour, there's more pear/green apple fruit on the palate. I would put this closest in style to the Tyrrell’s we had not too long ago, but it's just more in your face with the minerality and fruit while Tyrrell’s is more subtle and elegant. Both lean towards a lighter body. My favorite Chilean Semillon so far.
AC6/18/23https://bouchonfamilywines.com/en/
Javiera Ortuzar2019JacintaColchaguaSemillon - Sauvignon VertOrange91Natural. Orange wine. Spicy. Herbal. Medium-low acid. Medium body. Great if you like orange wines.AC4/22/23https://www.javieraortuzar.cl/
Javiera Ortuzar2020JacintaColchaguaViognierWhite9050/50 oak (some new) and steel. Baking spice. Round, medium+ body. Ripe, fruity, peach on the palate.AC4/22/23https://www.javieraortuzar.cl/
Javiera Ortuzar2016Despues de la LluviaColchaguaBlendRed891/3 each of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carignan. 13 motnhs in barrel. Some spice. Fruit driven. Starting to move to the next stage of aging with tertiary notes so a bit awkward, but still good acid.AC4/22/23https://www.javieraortuzar.cl/
Jorge Cotal2021La MalcriaItataCinsaultRedFresh, Savory, herbal. Nose a bit closed at the moment, but the palate is quite expressive. It percolates the mouth.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/jorge.cotal/?hl=en
Juan Segura2019QuirihueGarnachaRed92Surprised by this. Excellent, complex aroma of heavy red fruit with high acidity.CS2/17/20https://www.juansegurawines.com/
Kenos2017Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet francRed88Aroma of vanilla, red fruit, wiff of smoke. Medium to high tannins. 80% French oak, 20% American oak.CS9/1/19https://villasenorwines.com/index-kenos
Kingston2010PangareCasablancaPinot NoirRed85red tart fruit, creamy texture but nose rather leathery, smoky, chocolate, oaky Feels too old. Not together. AC10/11/17https://www.kingstonvineyards.com/
Kingston2016LuceroCasablancaSyrahRed91100% Syrah. 18 months in French oak (not sure how much new) 275 cases made. I like the nose. Savory. Meaty. Dried herbs. Olives. A little chocolate. Very Syrah. With some bright fruit in the background. The palate is almost red fruited with lots of acidity for a Syrah with some savory notes on the back end. Lean compared to most Syrahs. Only 12.5% alcohol. It’s definitely more of an Old World Syrah. One that Pinot and classic Rhone lovers would like which I find refreshing because all too often New World Pinot tastes like Syrah. It’s nice to have a Syrah that verges on being Pinot. More so on the palate with its lighter fresh character. Anyway, this is Syrah in an area more known for Pinot, so it makes sense. Also it was a cooler vintage. This will also be more versatile with food than most Syrah with its savory nature and mouthwatering acid.AC4/25/21https://www.kingstonvineyards.com/
Kodkod2020MauleCabernet S.Red90~3,000 bottles per year total production. Their vines were planted in 1900. A bit of Carmenere and Syrah in the blend. 8 months in 2nd use oak. Savory herbal nose with a touch of floral notes. Darker fruit on the palate compared to other Cabernet from Itata and some Maule producers, but still good acid and savory notes on the backend. AC9/10/22https://www.kodkodwine.com/
Kodkod2021MaulePaisRed88Really light color, like a rose from a dark grape. Soft and light on the palate. Simple and easy to drink. Red fruit.AC9/10/22https://www.kodkodwine.com/
Kofkeche2020MallecoChardonnayWhite88feels low intervention, lots of yeasty notes. Oxidative. Rich fruit. A bit buttery and caramel - could be the oxidation and/or malolactic. Medium-low acid. Medium, creamy body. Some spicy oak notes. A touch of heat.AC8/28/24https://kofkeche.cl/
Korta2019Tre SauvignonCuricoBlendWhite88Unique blend of 47% Sauvignon Blanc, 33% Sauvignon Gris and 20% Sauvignon Vert. Hence, the name “Tre Sauvignon.” Sauvignon Vert used to be widely planted in Chile and mistaken for Sauvignon Blanc. It’s since been replaced by actual Sauvignon Blanc. In Italy, Sauvignon Vert is known as Friulano. Sauvignon Gris on the other hand, is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc in Chile and Bordeaux. The color is yellow with a tinge of green. It’s a little lighter in color than most Sauvignon Blanc here. The nose is of citrus and herbal notes. On the palate, there’s ripe pear, a little citrus and minerality. Overall, there’s a less acidity and more sweetness than an average Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. It lacks intensity and length, but I won’t complain given the $5 price tag here in Chile.AC8/5/20https://www.korta.cl/
Korta2014Gran ReservaCuricoRed BlendRed8950% Petit Verdot with Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Syrah. Fruit forward, but like a fruit basket with both red and dark fruit. Light and elegant. AC8/31/18https://www.korta.cl/
Korta2017Seleccion Especial Sagrada FamiliaCurico, MauleGrosse MerilleRed88Grosse Merille is a rare varietal that used to be called Verdot Chileno before they realized it was Grosse-Merille, an obscure French grape. Light transparent color. Lighter than some rose wines. Reticent nose with some herbal and floral notes. Light red berry, strawberry palate with decent acidity. Someting a bit raspy at the end with spice and savoury notes. Sort of like milder Pinot or Beaujolais. Sort of also like a Cinsault from Itata. It's subtle wine that needs to be paired with light foods, maybe charcuterie. AC3/24/19https://www.korta.cl/
Korta2021Seleccion Especial Sagrada FamiliaCurico, MauleGrosse MerilleRed89Light, transparent strawberry red color with strawberry and roses on the nose with a touch of spicy herbal notes. Not sure how much they destemmed. The palate is light textured and mostly fruity and simple with something slightly bitter and spicy on the back end. The acid is a medium-low. Overall, a light, fruity and floral wine. Better served slightly chilled. AC3/20/23https://www.korta.cl/
Korta2014Gran ReservaLontue, CuricoPetit VerdotRed90I like this. Dark but fresh. Vegetal/herbal nose. Not heavy. Elegant for a Petit Verdot. AC8/31/18https://www.korta.cl/
Korta2021Special SelectionLontue CuricoPetit VerdotRose84the nose is interesting: fruity with a touch of floral and herbal notes. Canteloupe melon. The palate however is lacking. It’s a bit fizzy. Not much on the middle or back end. Could have more acid. At almost 2 years old, that could even be too old for a rose.AC1/21/23https://www.korta.cl/home
Koyle2015Cerro Basalto Los LinguesColchaguaBlendRed9038% Monastrell; 25% Garnacha; 19% Cariñena; 18% Syrah. Some savoury herbs and spice on nose. Dark fruit. Modern. Menthol. Licorice. AC7/27/18http://koyle.cl/en/
Koyle2014RoyaleColchagua, Los LinguesTempranilloRed90Dark, earthy. Quite big and tannic. AC4/14/19http://koyle.cl/en/
Koyle2017DoncandeItataCinsaultRed89If you're more of a typical Chilean Carmenere or Cabernet drinker, this is for you. Dark. Coffee. Dark red fruit, sweet. Thick. The darkest Cinsault I've had. AC4/14/19http://koyle.cl/en/
Koyle2019Cerro Basalto Cuartel G2 Los LinguesColchaguaCarmenereRed92Basalt (volcanic) soil. Minimal irrigation. Biodynamic/Organic. 18 months in oak foudre. No filtration. Mostly Carmenere (~80%) with some Cabernet Franc. This has ripe red and purple fruit on the nose with a bit of vanilla and well-integrated sweet oak notes. No typical pyrazine notes. There’s a touch of floral notes though. The palate has similar fruit as the nose with more acidity and elegance than most Carmenere along with a bit of spice. Soft, ripe tannins. Still feels shy and reticent overall, but I like the fresher, subtle and elegant style. It’s more like classic Bordeaux.AC12/20/21https://koyle.cl/en/
Kudaw (Vintae) 2017NativoItataCinsaultRed90Vineyards over 40 years old, goblet trained and organic, in the area of Guarilihue (Itata Valley). This has a pretty nose. Quite expressive. Very floral with some red fruit and a touch of earth. The palate is light, elegant with red fruit and low-medium acidity. Fairly simple on the palate, but it’ll be flexible with all sorts of lighter foods. I had it with white fish. This is a nice introduction to Cinsault. Sometimes Cinsault in Chile can be a little more rustic, but this is quite clean and pure even though it is also made with traditional or natural methods like many of the other producers do in Itata and Maule. It gives more modern wine drinkers a taste of what Cinsault has to offer. The producer Vintae is a Spanish company looking to revive these old vines and traditions in Itata. “Kudaw” means “the work of the earth” in the Mapuche language.AC6/19/20https://vintae.com/
Kunza2022Huasco, AtacamaMoscatel de AlejandriaWhite89Floral all around, fresh acidity. A touch bitter at the end.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2021Huasco, AtacamaChardonnayWhite9012 months in 1st use French oak. No malolactic. Medium body. Tart. But the oak gives it some spice and savory notes on the backend and nose.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2022AkainikHuasco, AtacamaChardonnayWhite90this is unoaked. Light color. Similar fresh style with slightly lighter body. Native yeast notes which show more without the oak.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2021MuskuyHuasco, AtacamaPinot NoirRed88Also tart, native yeast influenced and unoaked. Still wanted a little more ripeness. More a food wine.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2022Nuna-KulliHuasco, AtacamaGarnachaRed90Ripest so far of their reds. Darker fruit. More body and tannic than the Pinot. But still fresh. Should be more of a crowd pleaser than the Pinot with its ripe fruit.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2022Piku-YanaHuasco, AtacamaMerlotRed90Unoaked. Floral. Ripe cherry and plum fruit but still medium+ acid and tannic structure. Still needs time. A touch bitter. 90+AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2020PucaraHuasco, AtacamaSyrahRed90No oak. Color is more transparent and light tan most Syrah. Floral purple fruit. Meaty and licorice back end. Well structured with tannins and medium acid. 90+
AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2019Laykay Reserva PrivadaHuasco, AtacamaBlendRed92Malbec, Grenache, Syrah - Dark and red fruit but perhaps the darkest of all the reds. Medium acid. moderate tannins. Some spice. The syrah 12 months in 1st use oak. It manages to combine all the wines together.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kunza2019PucaraHuasco, AtacamaSyrahRed90About a year in 1st use oak. Don't get much of the oak on the nose but you get some savory and vanilla spice on the palate. Starting to get some of the oak nose now. Less of the overt fruit and floral than the unoaked version but it's there. Just a different style.AC12/7/24https://vinakunza.cl
Kutralkura2018MallecoPinot NoirRed88This one is from vineyards at the foothills of volcanoes around Curacautin, which is surrounded by 3 volanoes and two national parks, so different soil but also keeping a cool climate. Hence, the name of the bodega means "Fire rock" in Mapudungun. There is more acidity in this one with red plum, dark cherry and dark raspberry. However, it's still darker in color and fruit than most Casablanca Pinots, but slightly lighter and redder than the Casa Nicolas Pinot. The nose is less complex and more influenced by oak, so there's some vanilla oak notes. Unlike Casa Nicolas, they used new French oak. Both were about 13.5.% alcohol. Slightly lighter and less powerful overall.AC2/13/21http://www.kutralkurawines.cl/
L'Entremetteuse2019Pin UpColchaguaBlendRed89Nose is very complex and interesting. There’s ripe dark berry fruit and plummy-pruny fruit. It’s sort of fruitcake like. Somewhat overripe. Sort of like sweet Pedro Ximenez. A bit medicinal, herbal and meaty too. The palate has the same dark fruit yet there’s also high acidity. There’s high alcohol, but no heat. Tannins are soft and sweet. I’m not sure I’ve had any wine like it in Chile. It’s interesting. Not modern. It’s kind of Old World, but also liquor-like. There’s mininimal intervention in this wine, so I suppose this is pure Syrah and terroir from Colchagua without oak or other manipulation. There’s a lot going on here, but it’s not quite harmonious enough for me at the moment and slightly overripe. The winemaker is French and used to work for Santa Rita and Aquitania. She also makes cider.AC7/15/20https://lentremetteuseandco.cl/#
La Despensa (Cold Shower Wines) 2020Mezcla ColchaguinaColchaguaBlendRed89Blend of 65% Cinsault, 25% Pais, 10% Grenache. The only producer of Cinsault in Colchagua. The Cinsault and Grenache come from their own vineyards. The Pais comes from 120 year old vines in Pumanque. This is from English winemaker Matt Ridgway, who also offers lodging and tours in Peralillo with his Chilean wife. The wine was a bit too cold at first, so the nose was closed. Eventually a bit of red fruit, floral and savory notes come out. It's quite light on the palate with juicy acidity, red berry fruit but also a savory soy sauce side. Otherwise, no other hard edges or excesses. It reminds me more of a light Carignan from Maule than Cinsault from Itata because of the acidity and slightly balsamic notes. 89+ assuming the nose opens up more.AC10/9/21https://www.ladespensawines.com/
La Despensa (Cold Shower Wines) 2021La PiscinaColchaguaBlendRed90Blend 75% Cinsault, 15% Pais, Roussanne and Marsanne 5% each. Nice, light fruity and floral wine. Easy drinking. Medium acid. Spicy back-end.AC11/10/23https://www.ladespensawines.com/
La Despensa (Cold Shower Wines) 2022ColchaguaSangioveseRed89nose of red fruit, savory herbs. Slight floral notes. I like the nose. Palate is darker fruit for a Sangiovese, a touch bitter back on the end. Some tannins to resolve.AC11/10/23https://www.ladespensawines.com/
La Despensa (Cold Shower Wines) 2021ColchaguaPaisRed91rare 150 year old vine Pais from Colchagua. Pretty, fruit. Floral. Beaujolais like. But actually some tannins. Clean. Not the typical rustic PaisAC11/10/23https://www.ladespensawines.com/
La Fabula de Guarilihue2020ItataMoscatel de AlejandriaWhite88white foral notes on the nose. Palate is fresh, apple with a Little spice. Rather dry style of Moscatel.AC10/2/21https://www.lafabuladeguarilihue.cl/inicio.html
La Fabula de Guarilihue2020ItataCinsaultRed86fairly dark for this varietal with clay notes, spice. There was some heat and bitterness on the back end.AC10/2/21https://www.lafabuladeguarilihue.cl/inicio.html
La Fabula de Guarilihue2020Late HarvestItataMoscatelDessert86has a smoky, spicy but low intensity nose with a straightforward sweet round ripe peach/apple palate with a touch of spice.AC10/2/21https://www.lafabuladeguarilihue.cl/inicio.html
La Finca Clos D'Angel2014Cellar SelectionColchaguaCabernet S.Red87Oak, caramel, vanilla. Barrel spices.CS10/14/16https://www.monteswines.com/en/
La Finca Clos D'Angel2014Cellar SelectionColchaguaMalbecRed
86Red fruit dominate with soft tannic structure.CS10/14/16https://www.monteswines.com/en/
La Joda2021AconcaguaMoscatelsparklingA Chilean-Bolivian couple making wines out of the Aconcagua Andes.Moscatel de Alejandria. Cloudy, miso soup like color. Tastes a lot like apple cider. AC11/6/21https://vinolajoda.cl/
La Joda2021AconcaguaMoscatel Rosdasparkling– Moscatel Rosada (Pastilla) – riper and fruitier than the white.AC11/6/21https://vinolajoda.cl/
La Joda2021AconcaguaCarmeneresparkling– tangy red fruit. Fresh and easy.AC11/6/21https://vinolajoda.cl/
La Joda2018AjayuAconcaguaCarmenereRed100% Carmenere. 1 year in used oak. Green vegetal nose, but pretty, ripe palate. Dark red fruit.AC11/6/21https://vinolajoda.cl/
La Junta2017CuricoCarignanRed90Nose of bright red fruit with dried herbal notes. The palate is medium-bodied with juicy acidity. Some minerality. Licorice. There’s a round silky feel. However, there’s a touch of heat from the 14.5% alchohol. Not really an issue with food though. Something to pair with meat or heavier dishes with the acidity and power.AC12/12/20https://juntawinery.com/en/
La Pascuala2018La HigueraColchagua Cabernet S.Red90A family winery formerly called Vina Cal y Canto first planted in 1998 in Peralillo and selling their wines to the public for the first time in 2009 until around 2017 when they changed their name to La Pascuala. I believe 2018 was first vintage with the new name. The new name and label were an attempt to change their identity and market representation. This wine reminds me of a 15-20 year old Bordeaux from a cooler vintage despite being only 4+ years old. There’s ripe cassis and plum but on the dry fruit side. There’s plenty of spice, tobacco and Chilean pyrazine. The palate is rather lean and high in acid with a savory back end. Relatively soft tannins although the wine is definitely more rustic compared to most commercial Chilean Cabernets. If you’re a Napa wine lover, then this is too lean in fruit for you to drink on its own. Its acidity begs for food. If you like older Bordeaux, you might find this interesting.AC9/6/22https://vinalapascuala.cl/
La Principessa2020MaipoBlendRed88Comes from Vina El Principal. Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Malbec.Dark dense, completely opaque color. Nose of ripe purple fruit, violet floral notes and savoury herbs. The palate has purple fruit, decent acidity with a touch of coffee and vanilla. It does see some new oak. It's rather a standard Chilean red, with slightly more richness in fruit than most at this level without the extra heat or oak.AC9/17/21https://www.elprincipal.cl/en/
La Prometida2018RevoltosaMauleBarberaRed90Dry-farmed. No oak contact at all. Nose of bright cherry and blackberry fruit, a touch of citrus and herbal notes. The palate is medium-light bodied with no hard edges. Also fruit-forward with good acidity. Overall, not a complex wine, but it has yummy, fresh fruit and balance. It should go well with a lot of food.AC5/17/21https://www.instagram.com/laprometidawines?igsh=MXJvMzVyeXQ2Y25sbQ==
La Prometida2019RevoltosaMauleNebbiolo Red90typical color. Some floral and cinnamon on the nose. Dark fruit but with some rose, red fruit on the back end with gripping tannins. Spends 6-8 months in 3rd use oak. Closer to Piedmont than most Chilean Nebbiolo I've run across except a but darker.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/laprometidawines?igsh=MXJvMzVyeXQ2Y25sbQ==
La Recova2021AvidAlgarobboSauvignon BlancWhite91Quite green on the nose, asparagus. A little spritzy, high acid, but quite ripe and fruity too. Spicy, savory, fruity and tangy at the same time. A little more body than most.AC11/10/23https://www.instagram.com/larecovawines/?hl=en
La Recova?RosadoAlgarobboSauvignon BlancRose85Demi-sec. You have a bit of vegetal nose but nose is rather mute. The palate is quite sweet and low in acid. Interesting concept to have rose from Sauvignon Blanc, but too sweet for me.AC11/10/23https://www.instagram.com/larecovawines/?hl=en
La Ronciere2017Licantén Idahue EstateCuricoMerlotRed90The nose is restrained but showing cool, ripe fruit sort of like a Right Bank Bordeaux. Some secondary notes emerge on the nose too. The palate is medium+ bodied with ripe dark cherry and plum fruit but good acidity along with a minerally aftertaste. It’s less Bordeaux on the palate and overall different than most Chilean Merlot. It's a cool climate Merlot, but also more minerally than most. It can still be more integrated, but the tannins are soft at this stage. 90+AC6/10/23https://www.laronciere.com/
La Ronciere2018Licantén Idahue EstateCuricoCabernet FrancRed87Cabernet Franc with a bit of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. 10 months in French oak. Maybe it’s in an awkward stage, but right now it’s a bit too much oak driven for me with chocolate and spice mixed with some dark berry fruit. Medium acid. Medium body. Round tanins. A bit of heat (14% alcohol). Just doesn’t quite feel as fresh as the 2017 Merlot I had of theirs. The nose is not the most forthcoming. Overall, I’d like less oak and more freshness to express the coastal climate and minerally soil.AC10/26/24https://www.laronciere.com/
La Rosa2014La RosaCachapoal, PeumoCarmenereRed92Almost all Carmenere with a little Cabernet Franc. From "El Sauce" vineyard. Nice nose of ripe dark berry fruit, touch of euchalyptus and coffee, herbs. Some minerality. Palate is a step up from most Carmenere with an elegant feel, freshness, spice and ripe dark berry fruit. I found it for 21 dollars on sale which is a good price even if it is more expensive than a typical Carmenere. AC1/12/20https://larosa.cl/inicio/
La Sirca2021KokonColchaguaChardonnayWhite89used barrel time, no malolactic.- medium body, creamy feel despite no malolactic or much time on lees. You get good acid on the back end but it starts of quite round. Medium intensity with decent length. Pretty floral nose and slight herbal notes with some coaxing.AC11/10/23https://www.lasirca.com/
La Sirca2020Ojo en TintoColchaguaCarmenereRed89Potent, fuller style but alcoholic Carmenere. Some tannins to resolve still but round feel overall, dark fruit. Some pyrazine. Some licorice. Savory spice. Spends 12 months in barrel. 2nd y 3rd use. Needs to come together.AC11/10/23https://www.lasirca.com/
La Torina2015Special ReservePichidegua CachapoalCarmenereRed90Floral. Elegant. Smooth. More red fruited Carmenere.AC11/25/18http://latorina.cl/en
La Tribu2014Private Collection Limited EditionMaipoBlendRed91Blend of Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon. 14 months in used barrels. Elegant feel although there are still tannins to resolve. Floral and red fruit on the nose with good acidity, herbal notes on the palate. A touch of heat, but it blows away.AC9/10/22https://www.latribuwines.com/en/
La Tribu2017ZofCentral ValleyBlendRed90I think this is mostly from Maule. Cabernet S., Carmenere and Syrah blend. Red fruit, Floral like the Private Collection, but lighter, simpler, more fruit forward. Some herbal notes. 90.AC9/10/22https://www.latribuwines.com/en/
La Vina del Senor2018MiuraMaipoMonastrellRed94Heavy, powerful, dominate. Fruit forward with noticible and gripping acidity. CS2/17/20https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del Señor2022MaipoMonastrellRoseLocated in Melipilla, Maipo. Planted in 2012. Focused on Spanish varieties. juicy with a touch of herbal notes. More tannic than most roses. AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del Señor2019LaurelesMaipoGarnachaReddark berry fruit, a bit bitter on the backend. Tannic for a Grenache. 10 months in 3rd use oak.AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del Señor2018ArmindaMaipoTempranilloRed12 months in 3rd use oak. Tobacco, juicy purple fruit.AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del Señor2019Gran Temapranillo del SeñorMaipoTempranilloRedThis was “sangrado”or bled, meaning that let some juice bleed out (which is often used for roses) to concentrate the red. 18 months in 3rd use oak (French and American) Fruitier and more tannic than their Arminda Tempranillo. Some spice and herbs.AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del Señor2019MiuraMaipoMonastrellRedanimal nose, big tannic. Keeps the character of the variety but in a bigger, structured style.AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
La Viña del SeñorNVAmbarMaipoBlendFortifiedTawny Fortified Wine – 5 years Solera system. Made of Garnacha and Monastrell – not as smooth as quality Port, but there’s nice syrupy almond and vanilla that you can get in Tawny Port.AC10/1/22https://www.lavinadelsenor.cl/en/welcome/
Laberinto2017Cenizas de LaberintoMaulePinot NoirRed90Probably my first Pinot from the Maule. High elevation. Made by Rafael Tirado. Part of his vineyard is literally planted in a labyrinth formation, hence the name. Typical Pinot nose. Palate is light and zesty. Red fruit with some spice and minerality. Sort of reminds me of a Priorat or Montsant on the palate with the sense of granite and volcanic slate. According to the winery, they are on volcanic and granite soils. AC10/25/19https://laberintowines.com/
Laberinto2019Cenizas de LaberintoMauleSauvignon BlancWhite91This might be the first Sauvignon Blanc I’ve had from Maule. The 2018 and previous vintages of this have received rave reviews from critics. The nose is complex. Flinty, minerally with a touch of herbs and spice. Must come from the volcanic soils. The palate has tons of acidity, salinic minerality. A touch of something herbal and bitter. There’s an underlying white peach and green apple, but it’s really all about minerality and acidity. This sees no malolactic, but has time with lees lending it more complexity. It has more body than the average Sauvignon Blanc from Casablanca, but it’s not as substantial as the well-oaked Calyptra Sauvignon Blanc, but this is a lot less expensive at 13 dollars. The Calyptra is closer to a Bordeaux white while this is closer to Loire Valley. Production is around 1,200 cases. Still has potential to improve. 91+AC5/16/20https://laberintowines.com/
Laberinto2019Cenizas de LaberintoMauleSauvignon BlancWhite93The nose first hits you with yummy yeasty notes from time on lees. The type of nose I love in good Champagne. However, you also get citrus, mineral and a touch of floral notes. The nose is more integrated and elegant this time around. It was more herbal too. However, the palate still packs a punch and makes you feel it should age longer. I rarely say this about white wines, but it’s just mouthcoating and big. So much acidity and salinic minerality from the volcanic soil. It just engulfs your mouth like a top Cabernet or Sangiovese and there’s so much grip. But it’s not a grip from extract, alcohol, tannins and oak like those reds. It’s the acidity and creaminess that comes from the lees. This wine spent 8 months on lees. The alcohol is only 12.5%. About 1,500 cases of this were made. Some have compared it to the great Loire Valley whites of Didier Dagueneau. I’ve never had a wine from Dagueneau, but I have one aging in the cellar, so I’ll be sure to report on it. However, this wine deserves respect in its own right and is only a tiny fraction of the price at $15. This still has a long life and should only get better. 93+AC4/30/21https://laberintowines.com/
Laberinto2021CenizasMauleSauvignon BlancWhite94Volcanic soils. Organic. Unfiltered. 6 months in Stainless Steel tank. A lot going on on the nose. Citrus, floral, herbal, mineral and white fruit. The palate is concentrated, fuller and creamier than the typical Chilean Sauvignon Blanc with even a bit of tannic structure and piercing acidity and salinic minerality. This should only improve with age. 94+AC10/7/22https://laberintowines.com/
Laberinto2022CenizasMauleSauvignon BlancWhite926+ months of lees time in stainless steel. No oak or malolactic. Selected and native yeasts. Unfiltered. Minerally with, baked asparagus and green chili with sharp acidity. So much intense acid and salinity. Still could improve with age. 92+ Around 2,000 cases made.AC5/11/24https://laberintowines.com/
Lafken2020Single Vineyard SeriesLeydaRieslingWhite90Small production. They used to make it in Casablanca, but now it comes from a vineyard in Leyda. Minerally nose with some petrol. Green apple fruit verging on tropical but with plenty of acidity. More body than most Chilean Sauvignon Blanc but as much acidity without any of the green notes, so I think there’s enough distinction from Sauvingnon Blanc and Chardonnay to have its own niche in the market in Chile.AC12/24/21https://www.lafkenwines.com/
Lagar de Codegua2017Alto CachapoalTannatRed89Dark color. Tight nose. Dark fruit, tiny bit herbal. Palate is smooth, not as tannic as you'd expect for the varietal. Lighter and fresher for a tannat, but it's also a bit generic. Part of MOVI. AC8/14/19http://www.lagardecodegua.cl/
Lagar de Codegua2020Alto CachapoalTannatRed90100% Tannat; Manual harvest. Destemmed. Native yeasts. Mild pumpovers. 12 months in used French oak barrels. Dark almost opaque color. Nose starts off with bright red berry fruit and then some savory herbs and spices. Medium+ body with relatively soft but present tannins for a Tannat. Red fruit driven with some spice and plenty of acidity. Good balance overall. More Madiran-like in terms of acidity and being more red fruit driven but fruitier and softer more like many Tannat from Uruguay vs. Madiran. As usual, Chile is more in between typical Old and New World.AC8/14/23http://www.lagardecodegua.cl/
Lagos2021DistintoItataBlendRed87The label says it was produced by Cristian Lagos (of Trifulca in Coelemu, Itata), but there’s not much other information on the label and nothing online. Blend of old-vine Cinsault and younger Carignan and Zinfandel. There’s pretty red cherry fruit to this with touch of minerality, but the nose is rather shy and the midpalate is lacking. Medium+ acid. Medium-light body. I thought it would be a little more complex given the unique blend, but it’s more of a simple but pleasant every day wine.AC3/22/24https://www.facebook.com/trifulca160/
Lapostolle2013AlexandreColchaguaCabernet S.Red90Old vine Cab, almost 100 yr, famous Bordeaux winemaker Rolland is a consultant, dark cassis, olive, graphite, modern.AC8/22/17http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2014Le RougeRapelBlendRed91A modern Bordeaux blend. Ripe and silky. High alcohol, but holds it well. AC8/19/19http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2013RapelRed BlendRed88Blend of syrah, cs, merlot and carmenere. Fruity. Easy crowdpleaser. Some structure. Only 10 bucks. AC8/10/18http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2016Collection Costa Parcel Selection PumanqueColchaguaCarmenereRed91Only a tiny 579 bottles produced. Unfiltered. Native yeasts. Old neutral barrels used. It’s an interesting project from Lapostolle’s head winemaker Andrea Leon. It’s like drinking their other more well-known cuvees like their Alexandre line or even their Clos Apalta without all the heavy make-up of oak so one can appreciate the differences of the various terroir of Colchagua and the varietal Carmenere. This is a rare artisanal side of Lapostolle. The Pumanque is one of three other cuvees. One is from the eastern side of Colchagua near San Fernando in Portezuelo and the other one is in Apalta in the center of Colchagua. This Pumanque is closer to the coast. Nose of herbs, red fruit with a tiny bit of mint and chocolate. The palate is elegant with good acidity, dark red fruit, savory and spicy notes. A little licorice. No hard edges. A good food wine.AC3/20/21http://en.lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2020ColchaguaBlendRose86light peach/salmon pink color. Not the fruitiest rose. Savory minerality on the nose and palate. Otherwise, light and easy, but there’s definitely a Provence like appeal to it. Blend of 50% Cinsault, 26% Syrah, 18% Garnacha and 6% Mourvedre.AC10/10/21https://lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2014Clos Apalta Le Petit ClosCentral ValleyCab blendRed92Full bodied and concentrated. Earthy with leather black pepper and plum.
CS7/7/16http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Lapostolle2017Le RoséRapelGSMRose92Nice and well balanced rose. Not too light (of which they can be like water). Fresh raspberry, slight pear and a wiff of orange peal.CS11/26/19http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Las Ninas2016ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed89Nose of herbs, raisin, coffee, tobacco. Round dark fruit palate. Fruit forward but elegant. Fine for only 6 dollars. AC9/6/18http://www.vinalasninas.com/
Las Ninas2017Sin FiltroColchaguaMourvedreRed90Interesting nose, with dark fruit and earthy meatiness. Palare more on the red fruit side with good acidity and spice. Balanced. Rhone like. AC8/28/19http://www.vinalasninas.com/
Las Veletas2016MauleCabernet Franc, Petit VerdotRed90Nice green herby nose. Palate elegant, cool fruit. AC8/31/18https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2016MauleCabernet S., Cabernet F.Red89Roughly 2/3 Cabernet S. and the rest Cabernet Franc. Ripe cassis. Savoury herbs. Some stoney minerality. Balanced palate. Some tannic structure. Full bodied. AC2/28/20https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2014MauleCabernet S., Cabernet FrancRed90Big but balanced. Aging potential. Solid Cab.AC8/31/18https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2015MauleGrenache blendRed88Rhone like nose but palate a little disjointed. Dark fruit. Some citrus. AC8/31/18https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2017MauleGrenache blendRed88Touch of earthy and herbal notes. Had some time in wood. On the light side. Dark red berry fruit. Blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, and Carignan. AC10/11/19https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2017MauleGrenache blendRed88Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre. Earthy nose. Licorice, dark berry, spice, medium acid, something bitter. AC2/28/20https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2018MaulePaisRed85Not much going on here. Lighter. Less earthy than most Pais. Simple and light.AC10/11/19https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2015MaulePetit Verdot, Cabernet FrancRed88Rather green nose. Leather. Cedar. Red fruit but low acid. Some heat and oak to resolve. AC9/22/18https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2017MaulePetit Verdot, Cabernet FrancRed88More herbaceous than the CabS-CabF blend. Lighter, less rich. AC2/28/20https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2017Red BlendMauleGrenache, Syrah, CarignanRed83Medium body with less than expected acidity. Red fruits. The structure is off balanced.CS10/11/19https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Las Veletas2018MaulePaísRed89Having sampled this multiple times over the years it is a consistant product. Notes of red cherry with a floral accent. CS3/13/20https://www.lasveletas.cl/en/
Las Veletas2017MaulePaísRed85Simple, nothing engaging. Simple red fruits.CS10/11/19https://www.lasveletas.cl/
Laspotolle2018Cuvee AlexandreColchaguaCabernet S.Red91From vines planted in 1945, hence the name. They make about 1,000 cases. 95% Cabernet Sauvignon 5% Syrah. Aged in multiple sized oak barrels of various uses.Herbal notes there that fade and mesh with the fruit. There’s some sweet spice. The palate was a little lean though at first. Not as ripe, more red-fruit, acidity, but it opens up and ends up being an elegant medium-bodied Cab.AC4/30/21http://www.lapostollewines.com/
Laura Hartwig2017Edicion FamiliaColchaguaBlendRed91Elegant, classic feel. Fruit driven though with some herbal notes. AC3/13/20https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2015Edicion de FamiliaColchaguaCab blendRed9250% Cab S., 28% Malbec 12% PV, 10% CF. Big ripe fruit, a bit of green herbal notes and spice. Flinty nose. Coffee. Dark fruit. Medium acid. Chalky tannins. A little bit of heat. A little more modern than the lower end Laura Hartwig wines. 92+AC1/14/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2017Single VineyardColchaguaCarmenereRed89Only 9 bucks or so. Ripe cherry, herbaceous, good acidity, spice, soft tannins. A little heat. Classic Carmenere fitting with the house style. About 3,000 cases made. AC10/3/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2018LalucaColchaguaMalbecRed89Nice nose. Floral and delicate. Palate has no hard edges but lacking spark.AC10/11/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2017LalucaColchaguaMerlotRed90Unoaked Merlot, nice fruity, fresh and minerally. Ripe but not cloying. No hard edges. Ripe and fruit forward but still restrained. Not as elegant as a right bank Bordeaux but closer to that balance than most Chilean Merlot. Only 10 bucks.AC6/8/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2015ColchaguaPetit VerdotRed90Nose of dark fruit, graphite, herbs. Restrained and balanced. Medium acid. Dark. Chalky tannins. Feels Left Bank Bordeaux like. Feels more old world. AC7/31/18https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2017ColchaguaPetit VerdotRed906,950 bottles made. Although they’ve seemingly been around a while, they are a member of MOVI, Chile’s independent wine producer group. 100% Petit Verdot. Aged in 1st and 2nd use French Oak for 18 months. This comes off classic and a bit rustic. Sort of like a classic St. Estephe but without the stony notes. Nose is savory with notes tobacco and spices with dark red fruit in the background. The palate shows good acidity, structure with more spice and tobacco with tiny bit of heat from the alcohol.AC1/17/21https://www.laurahartwig.cl/
Laura Hartwig2017Sol de Colchagua Edición de FamiliaColchaguaCabernet S., cabernet franc, malbec, petit verdotRed95Powerful, structured, tannic with an ability to age. Good acidity with notes of clove, barrel spice and pepper. On the palate is heavy, concentrated dark fruit such as blackberry and blueberry.CS3/13/20https://www.laurahartwig.cl/eng/
Laura Hartwig2017LalucaColchaguaMerlotRed91A balanced merlot. Medium in nearly every category. Body, medium, acid, medium, power, medium. Lighter than expected but round with fresh cherry and oak notes.CS10/11/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/eng/
Laura Hartwig2018LalucaColchaguaMerlotRed91Did a vertical tasting of the 2017 and 2018. Both are nearly identical. CS10/11/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/eng/
Laura Hartwig2017Seleccion del ViticultorColchaguaPetit VerdotRed92Mixed berry aroma. Earth, forest floor, bitter chocolate, oak. Complex with lingering acidity.CS11/8/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/eng/
Laura Hartwig2018Seleccion del ViticultorColchaguaPetit VerdotRed94Mixed bouquet aroma. Difficult to identify singular fruits, excellent. Fruity and earthy at the same time. Dark, structured, balanced. Laura Hartwig does it again.CS6/28/19https://www.laurahartwig.cl/eng/
Laurent2017ZaphirMaipoBlendRed87Blend of CS, Petit Verdot, and Syrah. A bit too oaky. Harsh back end. AC11/25/18https://www.laurentwines.com/home
Laurent2016?ClandestinoMaipoPetit VerdotRed90Vegetal, minty, dark, complex nose. Palate ok.AC11/23/18https://www.laurentwines.com/home
Le Coq2021Gran Reserva Family SelectionLimariBlendRed8940% Carmenere, 40% Syrah, 20% Cabernet S. – Sees less new oak 50/50 new vs used. Fresh and more red fruit than most. Mild savory herbal notes. Elegant entry. A little heat on the back end.AC4/22/23https://www.lecoqwines.cl/
Le Coq2019Limited Edition Single BarrelsLimariBlendRed9042% Carmenere, 31% Cabernet S., 27% Syrah. Aged in new French oak. Baking spices, vanilla. Much more modern compared to the unoaked Family Selection. Similar fruit profile though.AC4/22/23https://www.lecoqwines.cl/
Le Coq2021MystiqueElquiSyrahRed91100% Syrah. Sourced from Alcohuaz. nose of dark fruit, spice, meat. Palate is medium bodied, with juicy medium acid, also spicy, peppery on back end and a lingering mineral note too. Tannins are soft and easy.AC11/10/23https://www.lecoqwines.cl/
Le Coq2021MystiqueElquiSyrahRed2nd time tasting this, but this time comparing it to the Alcohuaz Tococo since it comes from Alcohuaz's vineyards. They recently grafted Syrah over their Carmenere vines, so they had extra Syrah to share. This is also more cool climate Syrah, but more modern Northern Rhone with a little more ripeness, body and spice from using used barrels while the Tococo is with used foudres.AC11/25/23https://www.lecoqwines.cl/
Leo Erazo2019Cuvee Especial Arbol ArribaItataTorontelWhite88This particular wine comes from old vines planted in the 1930’s on granite soils in Itata near the coast. I couldn’t find any information about the winemaking, but knowing his other Chilean projects, it’s probably mostly natural/low intervention winemaking trying to let the terroir speak. Dark golden color. The nose has complexity but it’s not the most forthcoming at the moment. Herbal and minerally more than fruit with a bit of floral notes. The palate is minerally with salinity with austere fruit and medium acid. The fruit is more apple and white peach than dark peach and tropical. AC12/10/21https://www.facebook.com/leonardoerazovinos/
Leyda2015ReservaLeydaPinot NoirRed89Minerally and earthy nose. Some salinity, spice and more modern dark fruit palate AC8/18/17http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2015Las BrisasLeydaPinot NoirRed89Lots of minerality on the nose. Red berry fruit. Some grapefruit peel freshness. Light and easy.AC3/13/18http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2016LeydaPinot NoirRosé90Pinot character on the nose. Red fruit. Refreshing crowdpleaser with some complexity too. AC2/5/18http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2017ReservaLeydaPinot NoirRed90 Minerality. Salinity. Herbal. Red strawberry fruit. Touch of spice. For 7 bucks, a great deal.AC9/20/19http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2019ReservaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90Screwcap. Melon with smoky herbal notes on the nose. On the palate, it’s very citrusy, refreshing and smooth. Perfect for seafood, especially oysters. Leyda is always a solid choice for affordable Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir that are representative of this coastal region.AC8/22/20https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2017Single Vineyard GarumaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90Crisp, citrus with minerality and salinity. Some white peach. Perfect for oysters. AC4/21/19http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2015Canelo Single VineyardLeydaSyrahRed86Funky nose, dark but a bit off. Hollow mid-palate. Light for a Syrah. No new oak used. AC3/15/19http://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2018Las BrisasLeydaPinot NoirRed91) A little darker in color than some, but nose of red fruit, some minerality and savoriness, along with some herbs and spice. The palate is juicy with lots acidic zip, but there’s also a savory side to it with some spice and mint.AC6/15/21https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2022Las BrisasLeydaPinot NoirRed90Nose of red fruit, floral notes and minerality. You get the same on the palate in a light, easy drinking body. A stony minerality lingers on the finish. Lower acid than other vintages of this I’ve had, but still well-balanced.AC11/7/23https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2019ReservaLeydaPinot NoirRed90Their standard Reserva Pinot is made from estate fruit but multiple vineyards called "El Maiten" and "El Granito." It sells for less than $20 most places, but less than $10 in most places in Chile. This is rather typical in style with other Leyda Pinot, but less complex than the single vineyards. Well balanced with acidity and savoriness in a light easy package. Perhaps this is a little fruitier than previous bottles of Leyda I've had.AC7/25/21https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2021LeydaPinot NoirRed89Floral nose and fairly simple palate, of dark red fruit; lacks acidity that you get typically get from this producer.AC4/3/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2020GarumaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90lots of pyrazine green notes, high citrus acid. Some tannic structure.AC4/3/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2022GarumaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90This comes from a few parcels on their El Maiten vineyard which have a cooler microclimate, so it’s the last of their Sauvignon Blanc to be harvested. Granite soils. Mostly from Clon 1 Davis vines with 10% of Clon 107. The former giving it structure and body while the latter gives it more citrus and herbal notes. Around 30% of the bunches are destemmed, which helps give it an earthy component. Fermented in stainless steel and used barrels. 7 months of battonage (lees stirring). 80% stainless steel and 20% used barrels. The nose and palate start off quite green with green pepper, jalapeno notes. With a bit of time, salty minerally notes start to emerge on the nose and more fruit comes on the nose and palate. Good citrusy acidity along with passion fruit. A bit effervescent at first, but it fades. Screw top. New Leyda blue label.AC5/13/23https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2019Falaris HillLeydaChardonnayWhite90nice minerality and salinity on the nose. A little smoky. A touch creamy in feel with crisp acidity.AC4/3/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2018Falaris HillLeydaChardonnayWhite91salinic, spicy but still good freshness. Fruitier than the Leyda SB but still a fresh, minerally version of Chardonnay in general. A little fuller and more tannic than the SB too. A little more vibrant, expressive and potent than the 2019.AC4/3/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2021ReservaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90Typical quality Leyda Sauvignon Blanc. Fresh and citrus notes with typical Sauvignon Blanc green, herbal notes.AC4/23/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2014Lot 8LeydaSyrahRed93Planted in 2008 about 12km from the ocean. Granite soil. Not destemmed. 14 months in 20% French oak barrels and the rest in foudre. Immediate meaty, bloody and spicy nose. A little smoky. Olives and tomato leaves. Like a bloody seasoned BBQd steak. Very Syrah. The palate is super smooth and elegant tannins at this stage (8.5 years old). Medium acid. Savory and dark fruit notes.AC10/31/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2015Single Vineyard CahuilLeydaPinot NoirRed91A floral and fruity Pinot. Less acid and red fruited than most other Leyda Pinot I've had but still with the light, elegant Pinot texture. At almost 8 years old, that could explain the lower acid and heightened elegance, but it's still rather primary. They say this vineyard, with its northern exposure makes it warmer and riper than their other single vineyards, so that’s probably the main explanation.AC10/31/22https://www.leyda.cl/
Leyda2017CaneloLeydaSyrahRed90Partial whole cluster (~25%). Cold maceration. Mostly aged in foudre with some mostly used barrel aging, similar to the Lot 8. This fruitier overall compared to the Lot 8. This may be because it’s younger, but there’s also less stems and a generally warmer terroir. The nose has high tone dark and red berry fruit, some floral notes along with some herbaceous notes in the background. Olives. Pepper. The palate is also fruit driven on the attack with good acidity and some spiciness on the back end. Not as intense as the Lot 8, but it’s still pretty cool-climate Syrah that leans towards modern Pinot more than hefty Australian Shiraz.AC11/7/22https://www.leyda.cl/es/
Leyda2015Lot 21LeydaPinot NoirRed93They make Lot 21 from 3 sub-sectors. Each has its own exposition and soils to combine to make a balanced Pinot that’s elegant, structured, powerful and fresh. Mostly destemmed, but some whole clusters. Cold maceration. Punch downs 2-3 times a day. Racked and then aged 10 months in new and second use French oak barrels although it seems they stopped using new oak and started aging in only used barrels, foudre and cement with the 2016 vintage and on. Therefore, this 2015 may be a bit oakier than the subsequent vintages. The nose has some spice and earth, but it’s mostly about bright red fruit and pretty floral notes. The palate is super-elegant with the same red fruit, medium+ acid, Overall, a step up in intensity than the Cahuil on the nose and palate while at the same time being more elegant. Plus it’s more red fruit and floral driven while the Cahuil is darker.AC11/15/22https://www.leyda.cl/es/
Leyda2023ReservaLeydaChardonnayWhite91Nice balance of floral, fruity notes with high acid and ocean salinity. That saltiness lingers on the palate. Really needs raw oysters to make it perfect.AC3/18/24https://www.leyda.cl/es/
LeydaNVExtra Brut Methode Traditionelle LeydaChardonnaysparkling8818 months on its lees. Nose has a bit of toasty bread notes with citrus and minerality. The palate is also fresh, dry and light. Where it lacks is in bubble quantity and persistence. Otherwise, this is the flavor profile I like in my Extra Brut sparkling, and is a bargain at 16 bucks.AC11/16/24https://www.leyda.cl/es/
Linderos1983para guardaMaipoCabernet S.Redsuper light, aged, clear almost rosé like color but obviously in a cloudy, brickish pink aged way - fruity, but it’s dried plums, raisins, a bit like tawny Port like with nutty notes. Big clumps of sediment. Others thought this was a sweet Port-like wine too, so it was surprising to see it was supposed to be a dry Cabernet. Normally, a wine shouldn't gain sugar. It had to have been that way at a young age. Harvest April 1983. Bottled June 1984. American oak. 12% alcohol. Hard to rate, but it wasn't dead or bad. This is actually the oldest vineyard in Maipo planted in 1865. Now this land is owned by Vina Montgras, who use this vineyard for their premium wine Intriga.
AC9/10/23
Lof2015MaipoCabernet S.Red89Tight nose. Red fruit. Fresh. medium bodied. Only used-oak barrels used. Small family vineyard.AC11/25/18http://vinoslof.cl/index.php/en/
Lof2016MaipoCabernet S.Red90Red fruit. Green herbal notes. More classic overall. Sime winemaker as Perez Cruz, German Lyon. This is his family property. They make about 6,000 bottles total per year. AC8/30/19http://vinoslof.cl/index.php/en/
Lof2017MaipoCabernet S.Red91PnP Small family winery from the winemaker for Perez Cruz. Only around 6,000 bottles are made between their Cab and Syrah. For this particular vintage of Cabernet, 4,663 bottles were made. This has a nice nose of ripe red cassis, tomato leaf, tobacco, chocolate. Palate takes a little time to settle down, but it eventually develops a nice velvety feel with ripe red fruit, a little herbs and spice and menthol. In some ways, it keeps with the modern style of Perez Cruz, but it’s more red fruited than most of their wines. I also find this wine a little more alcoholic than the previous vintages I’ve had, but it still more on the red fruit side and still only aged in used oak barrels.AC4/19/20http://vinoslof.cl/
Lof2016MaipoSyrahRed88Darker and denser than the Cabernet. Some heat and tannins. Less elegant.AC8/30/19http://vinoslof.cl/index.php/en/
Lof2016MaipoSyrahRed88Vegetal nose. Dark fruit palate.AC11/25/18http://vinoslof.cl/index.php/en/
Lof2017MaipoCabernet S.Red90Notes of oak and pepper. Blackberry and dark fruit on the palate. Slight eucalyptus. Great improvement from the 2016 vintage.CS11/8/19http://vinoslof.cl/
Lof2016MaipoCabernet S.Red81Disengaging. Fruit off balance. Acidity still there with cassis, enough to notice it is a cabernet. Will try again in the future.CS8/30/19http://vinoslof.cl/
Lof2017MaipoSyrahRed92Slightly hotter in alcohol. Powerful. Medium tannic structure with medium acidity. Balanced and complex aroma. Oak notes with an earthy characheristic. Blueberry finish.CS11/8/19http://vinoslof.cl/
Lof2016MaipoSyrahRed82Off balance, stucture is lacking and the finish is displeasant. Mixed dark fruit aromas.CS8/30/19http://vinoslof.cl/
Loma Larga2014CasablancaCabernet FrancRed90Big. Cool but ripe fruit. Floral. Quite tannic on the palate. Unfiltered. Fair trade and biodynamic practices AC8/10/18http://www.lomalarga.com/
Loma Larga2014CasablancaCabernet FrancRed89Not quite as together as the last time. Still shows big structure for a Cab Franc. Floral and vegetal notes. AC8/31/18http://www.lomalarga.com/
Loma Larga2017QuintetoCasablancaRed BlendRed91Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah with a tiny bit of Cabernet S. and Malbec. The label also says there's a little Pinot, but the website doesn't say that. Red fruit, minerally, herbal and floral on the nose. Palate is ripe red raspberry fruit, cherry syrup. AC2/7/19http://www.lomalarga.com/
Lomas de Llahuen?PipenoItataPaisReda rustic, but not overly funky, traditional pipeno aged in rauli. Dark fruit. Medium-acid.AC3/29/23https://pt-br.facebook.com/pages/Vi%C3%B1a-Lomas-De-Llahuen-Portezuelo/134001253437220
Longavi2017ItataCinsaultRed88Light. Rustic. Some bushy and mineral notes. Strawberry red fruit.AC11/25/18https://longaviwines.com/en/
Longavi2016MauleCabernet S.Red88Lighter cab. Red fruit. Some tannic structure. AC11/25/18https://longaviwines.com/en/
Longavi2019GlupColchaguaChenin BlancWhite92Yellow-gold color with an orange rim. Natural farming. Fermented on skins with native yeasts in clay amphorae. Aged on lees in the same amphorae for 6 months. Unfiltered. Unfined. The nose stands out here with savory herbal, vegetal notes, white fruit like white peach but white flower notes dominating. The palate is fresh but fuller and rounder for a white of this profile, and some spice and a savory side. Not a full-on orange wine. More like a more substantial white with a spiciness to it.AC5/16/22https://longaviwines.cl/en/
Longavi2021Naranjo GlupItataMoscatelOrangeclear color. Doesn’t look Orange at all. Floral, lychee on the nose with some fall leaves, orange spice. Moscatel de Alejandria.AC3/30/23https://longaviwines.com/en/
Longavi2021GlupItataCinsaultRedshy nose. Dark and red Berry fruit. Nice cherry palate. Medium acid. Medium-soft tannins.AC3/30/23https://longaviwines.com/en/
Longavi2021CementerioMauleChenin BlancWhite92From vines planted in 1940. Chenin Blanc. Lots of acidity and salinity, with baked green pepper notes. Spicy. Most thought it was Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire, but it was Chenin. Quite good though and still young. 92+AC5/11/24https://longaviwines.com/en/
Lopez Pangue2020MaipoVerdejoWhite89100% Verdejo, 10 months in 74% cement, 26% stainless steel; 1095 bottles made. A new producer. Originally an orange producer, they started planting vines in 2011 and their first vintages released were 2019 and 2020. The winemaker is Paula Cardenas of Vina Quintay. This comes from the Maipo coast between Casablanca and Curacavi (basically half way between the Casablanca Valley and Santiago). Not a huge nose, but there are some herbaceous and zest notes. There’s good citrusy acidity, ripe green apple, verging on pineapple but also a rather medium-bodied, oily feel. There’s also a sort of bitter, green almond note. Aging in cement allows it to breathe more than stainless steel and it’s already 3.5 years old, so it’s slightly more oxidized than say an average young Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. AC11/4/23https://lopezpangue.cl/
Los Boldos2017Grand ClosCachapoalCabernet SauvignonRed 92Working with terroir specialist Pedro Parra, Los Boldos has been figuring out zoning patterns in their vineyards in order to match the plantings with each particular soil characteristic and hence the differentiation of management of each plot. This new cuvee from Los Boldos comes from one specific sector, parcel #37, which stands out for its complex 4 levels of soil types. It’s fermented in French oak and ages 4 months longer in French oak than their normal Grand Reserve, which is fermented in stainless steel. I’m guessing they use more new French oak with this too, but I couldn’t find details on that. Tasting this next to the Grand Reserve, it is a step up in integration, intensity and feel. It’s riper, fuller and rounder. The nose is a mix of ripe red fruit, some savory herbal notes, tobacco, coffee, and some minerality. The palate has plenty of acidity with a round soft tannic structure. Leans more Bordeaux than Napa with its acidity and red fruit. Similar to the Grande Reserve in style and flavor profile, but as I said, it’s more integrated and a little bigger. Costs about 3 times as much as their Grande Reserve. 91-92AC10/24/20http://www.clboldos.cl/ingles/inicio.php
Los Boldos2017Grande ReserveCachapoalCabernet SauvignonRed 89Red fruit nose, dominated by typical Chilean savory herbal notes, but not too green. Some tobacco. Vanilla. The palate is red fruit dominated with plenty of acidity. A touch of bitterness on the back end. Rather classic style. Better with a nice piece meat than on its own given the mouthwatering acidity. Otherwise, no hard edges. A bargain Cabernet. Fermented in stainless steel. Aged for 10 months in French oak.AC10/24/20http://www.clboldos.cl/ingles/inicio.php
Los Boldos2020Specialty SeriesCachapoalTouriga NacionalRose89Los Boldos is owned by the Sogrape Group, a Portuguese company, so it makes sense that they were the first to produce a monovarietal Touriga Nacional in Chile. Their first vintage was 2017. This Rose is light peach pink with medium intensity nose of fresh red berry fruit with some doughy and herbal notes. The palate is a tangy white raspberry with a touch of salinity.AC1/8/22http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos2018Organico ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red89Vanilla and chocolate on the nose with dark red fruit. The palate is tart for Cabernet. Medium-bodied. Touch of spice. No hard edges.AC12/12/22http://www.clboldos.cl/ingles/inicio.php
Los Boldos2022Specialty SeriesCachapoalFriulanoWhite90Once more widely planted and thought to be Sauvignon Blanc in Chile, Sauvignon Vert (Friulano) was later replaced by actual Sauvignon Blanc. Super-clear color. Almost like water. The nose exhibits floral, air freshener-like notes with a touch of citrus and white fruit. The palate is medium-low bodied with medium+ acid and roundness, with savory herbal notes. Compared to most Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, it’s more floral and a lot less herbal on the nose and it’s fuller and rounder on the palate, but still not a big white. Some of that could be the winemaking and inland climate compared to most coastal Sauvignon Blanc. From vineyard planted in 1936. AC3/26/23https://boldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2016Gran ReserveCachapoalCabernet S.Red90Very Chilean, savoury herbs, mint, juicy, ripe, vanilla, medium acid. Relatively elegant, so more versatile with food. However, it really faded away on the second day, so I don't think this is something to age. AC8/3/18http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2016Vielles VignesCachapoalCabernet S.Red8960+ year old vines. Ripe red cassis, some graphite, herbal notes, minerality. Some tannic grip but generally soft feel Menthol. Some hear. Red fruit driven, so feels more classic. AC3/26/19http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2015Grand ReservaCachapoalCabernet S.Red87Blackberry with black fruits. Average Cabernet. Drinkable.CS5/20/16http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2015Momentos ReservaCachapoalCabernet S.Red86Cherry vanilla soft tannins well rounded structure.CS5/20/16http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2015Momentos ReservaCachapoalCarmenereRed85Green bell pepper dry red with a fruit forward structure.CS5/20/16http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2015CachapoalMerlotRed86Soft tannic structure with plum and blueberry notes.CS5/20/16http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Boldos
2014CachapoalSauvignon BlancWhite87Grapefruit and citrus. Acidic and mouthwatering.CS5/20/16http://www.clboldos.cl/
Los Quiscos?MaipoBlendRed90Organic. Roughly equal blend of 9 varieties (Bordeaux & Rhone varieties) co-fermented. 13 months in 50% oak. 1/3 new. Nose of baking spices. Red and dark fruit. Similar on the palate with a spicy end. A touch of heat. Moderate tannins.90+AC4/22/23https://www.instagram.com/vino.losquiscos/?hl=en
Los Quiscos2022TrancoyanItataPaisRed89150 year old vines. Native yeasts. Bright red nose. Some herbal notes. Nice fresh palate, but lacking on the mid-palate. A clean, aromatic fresher version than most.AC4/22/23https://www.instagram.com/vino.losquiscos/?hl=en
Los Vascos2013Grande ReserveColchaguaCabernet S.Red90A wine from the owners of Lafite that can be found all over Europe and North America. Nose more French, Bordeaux like. Tobacco. Cooler fruit. Has Lafite's expert use of high-end oak. Palate of cassis, medium acidity, coffee, eucalyptus. Nice internationally styled wine and well-priced. AC9/11/18http://www.lafite.com/en/the-domaines/vina-los-vascos/
Los Vascos2018Cromas Gran Reserva ColchaguaCabernet S.Red8985% cabernet, 10% syrah and 5% carmenere. 12 months in French oak (50% new) Different label and name, but this is the same Los Vascos Gran Reserva Cabernet. Same Lafite finesse and high-quality oak. You get that on the nose with some herbal, coffee, vanilla baking spice and dark berry fruit. There’s an elegant feel with good acidity and spice with some tannic structure reminding you it’s still young, but they’re soft tannins. The only issue is the lack of fruit on the palate. It’s young enough to believe it will open up over time, especially given the excellent vintage. However, it’s mostly savory now without the fruit to balance it out. 89+ Around 90,000 cases produced each year.AC8/29/21http://www.lafite.com/en/the-domaines/vina-los-vascos/
Los Vascos2022ColchaguaAlbariñoWhite91I believe this is their first vintage of Albariño to come to market. Only 500 cases were made. This was my favorite of the three. Fruity, floral and citrus notes on the nose. Most expressive on the nose of the three. The palate is the lightest of the three, but still good intensity and acidity. The most elegant of the three without sacrificing flavor. Despite not being far from the coast (like everywhere in Chile) in Peralillo, there’s not much of a saline influence in the wine like some Galician Albariño, but it’s well integrated, varietally correct and delivers a lot in a subtler way–true to the Lafite style.AC12/27/23http://www.lafite.com/en/the-domaines/vina-los-vascos/
Louis Antoine Luyt2017Gorda Blanca Cuvee BenoitBio-BioBlendWhite90An interesting natural wine. Field blend of Moscatel de Alexandria, Torontel, Corinto (Chasselas) and Semillon from dry farmed vines that are 250+ years old. Granite & red clay soil. 6 months contact with lees. No sulfur, fining or filtering. Extremely floral on the nose with a touch of herbaceousness. It’s like a floral air freshener. The palate features savory minerality, citrus, and a bit of rustic natural earthy funk. This is not for modern wine lovers, but it’s unique with an interesting floral nose. It’s the white version of Pais dominated rustic Pipenos from this region.AC10/18/20https://www.louisantoineluyt.cl/
Louis Antoine Luyt2019Huasa de PilenMaulePaisRed90Luyt was trained in Beaujolais winemaking by producers such as Marcel Lapierre and has applied his expertise to help farmers in Chile produce high quality and natural Pais from 200-400 year old vines in Maule. This site “Pilen Alto” is from a high elevation vineyard (500m) on red clay, granite and schist with 200-300 year old vines dry-farmed by 2 local farmers. He makes his Pais using traditional Chilean winemaking practices (these wines are called pipeno) and some with carbonic maceration in more of a Beaujolais style Pais. However, this wine doesn't currently see carbonic maceration. Instead, he uses the same method as his Pipenos but ages it longer in old amphora. Natural yeast is used. Harvested and destemmed by hand. The ones in Chile may not see any sulfites, but the ones abroad may to keep the wines during the journey. It’s a nice light and red-fruited wine with a touch of floral notes and earthiness on the nose and it’s slightly herbacecous and minty on the back end. It definitely strikes a nice balance between the very rustic, natural and stronger Pipeno wines you find in Chile with the more elegant style of Burgundy/Beajolais Cru wines. It’s only $10 here in Chile.AC9/18/20https://www.louisantoineluyt.cl/
Louis Antoine Luyt2019Pais de QuenehuaoMaulePaisRed916,000 bottles made. This Pais differs from his others because it’s aged 10 months in steel tanks and he uses carbonic maceration. Darker and fruitier than his Huasa de Pilen Alto. It’s also a little fuller and rounder. Higher in alcohol at 14%. They’re also made from older vines 300-400 years old on granite and clay soils. There’s a nice floral component on the nose with a little bit of savory herbs along with the dark red fruit. The palate is fruit driven, easy-drinking with a little bit of chalky minerality. This is probably the least traditional of his Pais wines. I would’ve guessted Beaujolais Cru Fleurie if tasted blind.AC10/15/20https://www.louisantoineluyt.cl/
Luis Felipe Edwards2015Autoritas Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red89Vibrant fruit, spice, good acidity. Needs oak and alcohol to integrate a little moreAC10/14/17https://www.lfewines.com/
Luis Felipe Edwards2012Terraced Gran ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed89Got on sale for around 5 dollars. I've had several bottles of this in Geneva. Dark purple color. Nose herbaceous with dark plum fruit. Creamy with vanilla. It's basically a more hernal modern Merlot. Versatile with food. Could go well with spicy foods since it's not tannic or overheated. AC3/1/17https://www.lfewines.com/
Luis Felipe Edwards2019ReservaMaule Pinot GrigioWhite86Probably too cold at first, but the nose was still rather weak, but what you get is some ripe peach with a tinge of savory spice notes. The palate is on the fruity side with peach and medium-low acid. Light-bodied. A rather simple white that won’t offend anybody, and it will go with all sorts of ethnic spicier foods. If you don’t like as much acidity or herbal notes in Sauvignon Blanc nor the buttery oaky Chardonnays, then this inoffensive Pinot Grigio can fit the bill for only $8.AC8/8/21https://www.lfewines.com/
Macarena Morandé & Rafael Urrejola2022FugaPirque MaipoCabernet FrancRed931,110 bottles made from .4 hectares planted around 14 years ago in Pirque. Produced by the husband-and-wife team of Macarena Morandé from Viña Morandé and Rafael Urrejola of Undurraga. The blend is 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Merlot fermented with native yeasts and aged 14 months in neutral oak barrels. Although this has some of the international appeal of Undurraga’s and Morande’s more commercial wines with its fruity palate and suave feel, it’s also a wine that should appeal to wine geeks in its precision, acidity and purity without oak influence. On the nose it’s easy to find red fruit, eucalyptus, some savory herbal notes and touch of rose. The palate has upfront juicy red berry fruit, almost Italian-like acidity with some lingering savory notes. Medium body. High acid for the varieties involved. Suave tannins. Lots of vivacity.8/16/24N/A
Macatho2016TinajacuraItataBlendRed88From a French and French-Chilean couple. Blend of Cinsault and Carignan. No oak. Stainless steel fermenting and aging. No filtering. Minimum sulfur used. The nose is rather Carignan with bright red fruit, some leather and spice. The palate has that Carignan high acidity, red fruit, and a little minerality. No hard edges. Unfortunately, the Cinsault is felt on the palate in the sense that there’s not much there. It’s rather simple without much mid-palate. Definitely more of a food wine with the acidity.AC10/22/20https://www.agricolamacatho.cl/
Magyar2017KunkoCuricoBlendRed88Mostly Cabernet Franc with Malbec and Carmenere. Stinky vegetal nose. Light smooth palate.AC11/25/18http://magyarwines.cl/
Magyar2017CuricoCabernet FrancRed89Round. Ripe. Dark raspberry fruit. Some vegetal and earth notes. Cinnamon. Hungarian owner.AC11/25/18http://magyarwines.cl/
Magyar2018Tutukén ReserveCuricoCabernet franc, carmenereRed8265% cabernet franc, 35% carmenere. Fruity. Not well structured, simple. CS9/2/19http://magyarwines.cl/
Maitia2014EnsamblajeLoncomilla, MauleCarignan blendRed9060% Carignan with Cabernet Franc and Pais. Burgundy like nose with dirt, spice, floral notes. Red fruit, light feel. Versatile with food. AC10/16/17https://www.facebook.com/aupamaitia/
Mancura2018Guardian ReservaMauleCarignanRed89This is another label of Vina Morande. This is what I expect from Chilean Carignan. High acid, red fruit, medium bodied with some dry herbal note. Not as complex or profound as some. There could be more intensity on the nose, but great for the $7 price.AC11/20/21https://mancurawines.cl/
Mancura 2019Guardian ReservaMauleCarmenereRed88Balanced nose of smokey green peppercorn, coffee and ripe fruit. The palate has decent acidity, dark fruit, soft tannins but a touch of heat.AC4/1/22https://mancurawines.cl/home/
Manos Andinas2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed89Standard Casablanca Pinot with varietal characteristics on the nose and light red fruit palate. However, nothing really standsout either.AC2/25/19https://www.manosandinaswines.com/
Maquis2010LienColchaguaBlendRed9150% Carmenere with Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Petit Verdot. Winery consults with Boissenot from Bordeaux and terroir specialist Xavier Chone. Complex nose, cool dark fruit, smoky, savoury, plenty of acid, chocolate, soft tannins. Could still improve with air or age. Pricier for a Chilean wine at 30 bucks. The winery likes to put Mapuche (indigenous Chilean tribe) symbols on their labels. AC6/17/18https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2012LienColchaguaBlendRed9244%Cabernet Franc, 40%Syrah, 10% Carmenere and 6% Petit Verdot. A lot less Carmenere than previous vintages. Nice nose. Has integrated herbal notes with ripe fruit. Palate is powerful. Plenty of tannins but soft tannins. AC2/14/20https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2015LienColchaguaBlendRed90I couldn’t find any details on the exact percentage of the varietals, but most likely this is Carmenere dominated with some Cabernet Franc and Syrah. Some vintages it is more Cabernet Franc. The nose ripe dark berry fruit with some minerality and herbal notes. The palate follows through with juicy dark fruit notes, some chalky tannins, a little vanilla and also savoury herbaceous notes. No hard edges. Balanced wine with more substance than an average Carmenere, but nothing pops out at the moment. I think the 2012 is better.AC4/17/20https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2010FrancoColchaguaCabernet FrancRed92Gorgeous texture and elegance. Seamless. It feels more like an elite wine. Herbal nose. However, it's not forthcoming with its fruit though. It might need more air or aging. This is their highest level wine. It costs at least 60 bucks in the US and twice as much in Chile AC7/26/19https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2014Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet FrancRed89Has varietal characteristics. Vegetal, herby, roasted coffee. On palate, some tangy red fruit, mint, spicy oak. AC8/7/18https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2016Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet FrancRed87Rather dull and boring. Not much coming out, but keeps balanced.AC7/26/19https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2016Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet FrancRed88Herbaceous both on the nose and palate. Also some salinity on the nose and sort of soy sauce like palate. Some dark fruit on the nose while the palate has decent acidity but still more towards the dark fruit, but less than the nose. Some coffee on the nose too. A bit weak on the mid-palate. No hard edges.AC3/30/20https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2015Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red92Ripe, tobacco, green pepper, meaty, chocolate. Good acidity and tannic structure yet creamy roundness. Very good 8 bucks.AC11/9/18https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2015Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red88Dark red fruit. Rich. Some minerality. But too oaky at the moment. AC4/26/19https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2009ViolaColchaguaCarmenereRed90Carmenere with 15% Cabernet Franc. Floral, herbal mint notes on the nose. Smooth entry, soft tannins, medium acid, dark fruit with some spice. Some oak that still needs to be integrated. Overall, the Maquis style is not about powerhouse wines. They are elegant and subtle even at their top end like Viola. However, this particular wine still feels like it could open up more and integrate better. Or perhaps it is too old. There's not a lot evidence out there for how well Carmenere can age. At the moment, it doesn't merit the high asking price. AC10/11/19https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2016Gran ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed90Nose dark ripe fruit. Minerality. Herbal. Dark and red fruit. Coffee. AC7/28/19https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2016Gran ReservaColchaguaMalbec, Cabernet FrancRosé88Red berry. Floral. Watermelon jolly rancher. Fresh. Easy to drink. 85% Malbec with Cabernet Franc. Relatively dark color for a rose. AC12/1/18https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2018Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red90Spends one year in French oak. The nose is medium intensity but it opened more the second day with savory herbal notes, chocolate, tomato leaf, tobacco, cedar and some dark fruit. The palate has not caught up with nose. It is medium bodied, with dark fruit, medium acid, and a little spice. Fairly standard Chilean Cabernet, but relatively austere in terms of fruit. It's more on the savory side with secondary notes. Expecting a little more vibrancy and freshness from the vintage, but it was a supermarket wine and could've been on the shelf a while.AC12/31/21https://www.maquis.cl/
Maquis2018Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet FrancRed90Has a bit of Carmenere and Petit Verdot too. Alluvial, clay soil; 12 months in French oak. Starts off typical Chilean with the pyrazines, but develops more into a dried herbal form. Some oak, spice, but on the fresher side on the palate. Dark and red berry fruit.AC5/28/22https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2016Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet FrancRed88Spicy barrel notes. Oak. Some red fruit, a wiff of herbal aromas.CS10/11/19https://www.maquis.cl/
Maquis2012LienColchaguaCabernet franc, petit verdotRed85Lighter than expected. Older bottle which has lost a lot of its character over the years. Would need a newer vintage.CS2/14/20https://www.maquis.cl/en/
Maquis2009ViolaColchaguaCarmenereRed87Too old. Need to revisit a newer vintage. Past prime. Still some medium acid and mild tannic structure but simply too many years.CS10/11/19https://www.maquis.cl/
Maquis2017Gran ReservaColchaguaMalbecRosé83Simple, non-engaging wine. A perfect patio-pounder on a hot day. Nothing to contimplate.CS2/14/20https://www.maquis.cl/
Maquis2022RevelaColchaguaCarmenereRed9112 months in French oak barrels. Medium purple color. The nose exhibits ripe red and bright dark fruit with some chocolate and coffee, herbs, spice and typical Chilean eucalyptus like notes. Medium+ intensity. The palate has similar notes with a touch of menthol and spice. Medium+ acidity. Soft tannins, typical for the variety. It has an elegant, light feel, which makes it a step up from what is otherwise a text-book high quality Carmenere from Colchagua at this price point. It’s a little fresher than most too. I still feel it’s a bit tight and not all together at such a young age, so a bit more air or age could help. 91+AC9/11/24https://www.maquis.cl/
Marchigue2019Alto Tierruca ReservaColchaguaMerlot, MalbecRed85(70 Merlot/30 Malbec) – Nose is actually decent. Some red and dark fruit, then a touch floral and then herbal, coffee and green notes typical of Colchagua. Palate is where it’s lacking. Some plum fruit, but it has a hollow mid, and is dominated by the eucalyptus green notes and some alcohol. Not enough acidity or tannic structure.AC3/18/20http://www.vinedosmarchigue.cl/
Mariana?Lagrimas del HuasaMauleTorontelWhite90– Natural. 25% in oak. 75% in tinajas. Herbal nose. White flowers. High acid. Torontes RiojanoAC4/22/23https://www.instagram.com/bodega.mariana/?hl=en
MarianaNVPet-NatMaulePaisSparklingtoo sweet and only midly fizzyAC4/22/23https://www.instagram.com/bodega.mariana/?hl=en
MarianaNVLagrimas del HuasoMauleTorontelWhite92Blend of 20 and 21 vintage. shy nose with some white flowers and white fruit. Tinaja and barrel aging. The palate is quite explosive though with an oily feel, piercing acidity and mouthwatering salinity.AC4/6/24bodegamariana@gmail.com
Mariana2023Nektar Late HarvestMauleTorontelDessert88More nose on this one. Some waxy notes. Slightly fizzy but elvety palate. Moderately sweet. Slight bitter on the backend.AC4/6/24bodegamariana@gmail.com
Marty2015Pirca Gran ReservaMauleCarmenereRed89~30,000 bottles made. 100% Carmenere. 6 months New French Oak.Takes 10-15 minutes to open up. Nose of chocolate at first and later savory herbal notes. Dark ripe fruit palate. Medium-low acidity. Vanilla and a little pepper. The texture is lovely. Creamy. Silky. Light feel. The owner and winemaker is Pascal Marty, who used to work Mouton Rothschild. He helped to make Opus One and Almaviva, two joint New World projects of Mouton Rothschild. It definitely shows a French sense of elegance and deft use of oak while being more towards the modern side in terms of ripeness. I’d like a little more acidity and verve, but for 7,000 CLP ($9) I won’t complain too much.AC8/6/20https://en.vinamarty.cl/
Marty2019Goutte d’ArgentLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite92Vina Marty, which is owned by the former winemaker for Opus One and Almaviva, makes the only wines in the world to use sake yeast #7 (or Masumi), which is normally only permitted for official Japanese sake makers. It’s one of the most popular yeasts for Japanese sake makers. According to Viña Marty, this allows vinification to take place at lower temperatures like sake, which allows the wine to keep its aromas better. They have a Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc using sake yeast. The color is light yellow with a tinge of orange in it. The nose has some citrus and fruity notes but it’s mostly about the pyrazines with green pepper, jalepenos. The palate is quite full and creamy for a Sauvignon Blanc with medium-low acid. Verging on tropical fruit ripeness. Plus plenty of green pyrazine notes too. A bigger, more powerful, creamier, riper version of Sauvignon Blanc from Leyda than most, but it still keep its Sauvignon Blanc green, herbal character.AC4/2/22https://www.vinamarty.cl/
Marty2020Goutte d’ArgentLeydaChardonnayWhite92Some creaminess with some green citrus and ripe stone fruit notes too. Some bready notes. Unique nose. Medium acid and creamy body with some savory spice. Sake yeast used.AC11/4/22https://www.vinamarty.cl/
Masintin2019ItataCinsaultRed91This is a super new producer. This is only their second vintage. 18-year-old dry-farmed vines. Hand picked. Native yeasts. The wine was aged in concrete tanks, cocciopesto amphoras and old French oak barrels. 5,623 bottles made. The nose is pretty and complex with some earthy, herbal, floral and mineral components to go with the red berry fruit. Reminds me of a nice Pinot from Casablanca. The palate is bit simpler and darker, but has a nice elegant and clean feel with some notes of tea. Medium-low acid. It’s a nice representative Cinsault from the region that is a little more powerful but not at all overdone.AC10/31/20https://www.vinosmasintin.com/
Matetic2014EQCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Candied sour cherry with smokiness. A little minerality. Thicker style. Definite oak. Modern style. Disappointing for the price around 30 dollars. AC5/14/18https://matetic.com/?lang=en
Matetic2019CorralilloSan AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite89Middle of the road Sauvignon Blanc stylistically and in terms of quality. Not too much herbal notes on the nose with a bit bready notes. Must be since it spent 3 months on fine lees. Palate medium acid. Slightly creamy. Slightly fuller than most and more modern.AC12/31/20https://matetic.com/en/
Matetic2014CorralilloSan AntonioSyrahRed90Meaty, herby, licorice. Juicy. Touch of heat. Northern Rhone like. AC9/25/17https://matetic.com/?lang=en
Matetic2018CorralilloSan AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite91Highly acidic, complex, dry. Lighter texture. Aromas of very ripe green apple, pear. Fresh cut grass, grapefruit.CS9/4/19https://matetic.com/?lang=en
Matetic2018EQ Cool ClimateSan AntonioSyrahRed93Chile's first coastal cool climate Syrah, first produced in 2001. Organic. 18 months in French oak. Granite and quartz soil. From Rosario vineyard, 19km from the coast. Nice meaty, BBQ notes on the nose and palate. Purple fruit, violet, with juicy acidity. Licorice. Plus intensity on the palate. Full-bodied. Tannins are quite smooth and seamless at this stage, especially with food.AC1/7/24https://matetic.com/en/
Matetic 2022CorralilloSan AntonioGewurztraminerWhite90Half destemmed and half whole-cluster. Stainless steel fermentation, 1 month on fine lees and then aged in 400l barrels. Pretty and expressive nose of tropical fruits, lychee and flowers. You get similar notes on the palate with a touch of spice. Medium+ acidity and medium+ body. Nothing overdone. Not too sweet. Still rather refreshing.AC1/23/23https://matetic.com/
Matetic 2022CorralilloSan AntonioGewurztraminerWhite90fruity, lychee but keeps enough freshness.AC3/16/24https://matetic.com/
Matetic 2021CorralilloSan AntonioSyrahRed90typical of the cool climate Syrah from the coast here with lifted acid and savory spice and meatiness but a step below on the nose than some of others but it's already approachable and juicy on the palate.AC3/16/24https://matetic.com/
Matilde Agustina2018?Maipo, CaneloBlendRed83Personal wine of the owner of a restaurant in San Jose de Maipo. Simple. Ripe dark fruit. Some heat, spice. Licorice. Feels mor Syrah. Not much nose. Blend of Syrah and Cabernet. More of the top wineries are out in Pirque and not in Canelo, where this wine comes from. AC2/23/20https://es-la.facebook.com/MATILDEAGUSTINAVINO/
Maturana2018NaranjoMauleTorontelOrange86Orange wines (white wines fermented in their skins like reds) are an acquired taste. It's actually orange in color, cloudy yellow-orange. Less vegetal than previous orange wines I've had, but still reminds me of Ethiopian honey wines on the palate. Of course thicker than a normal white.AC3/15/19https://www.maturana-wines.cl/web/index.php
Maturana2019NegraMaule, LoncomillaSan FranciscoRed88According to the producer, the San Francisco grape is also called negramoll in the Canary islands which is not the same as negra mole in Portugal, which is the main grape in madeira. This grape has also been used a table grape. This was brought over to Chile along with Pais in the 16th century. A simple light fruity wine with a touch of spice and flowers. Candy fruit and easy drinking. Sort of like Beaujolais Nouveau or Beajolaus village level wine. AC9/26/19https://www.maturana-wines.cl/
Maturana2018MauleGarnachaRed 91100% Garnacha They seem to have changed the name of the wine to Pai-Gar in subsequent vintages because it’s Garnacha grafted on really old-vine Pais vines. Native yeasts. No other additives. Aged in tinaja for 10 months. Pretty, ripe red fruit on the nose verging on floral. The palate has darker fruit, but still good acidity and a little spice. Overall, a fruit driven wine, but none of the excess oak, sweetness, body or heat, despite the 14.5% alcohol, that some Grenache can have. It’s an elegant, pure Garnacha.
AC12/19/21https://maturanawinery.cl/
Maturana2020NegraMauleSan FranciscoRed90Although the Maturana website says San Francisco is the same as Mollar or Negramoll, it’s not clear if San Francisco is really Mollar or Negramoll. One analysis shows it’s related to the varietals Rose of Peru or Semis de
Goes and not Mollar. I also found other synonyms for San Francisco such as Black Prince, Criolla Mediana 2, Dolcino, Laurenzana, Rosa del Perú, Santa Chiara, and Uva Criolla San Francisco. A side by side DNA test is needed to confirm one way or the other. Produced in open barrels with native yeasts. Dark but transparent color. The nose is rather herbal with dark cherry notes. On the palate you also get dark and red fruit with a bit of spice, but overall it’s a soft and fruity wine. Medium acid. Fresher than I remember the first time I tried this wine.
AC3/25/22https://maturanawinery.cl/
Maturana2018LoncomillaGarnachaRed84Licorice, plum, strawberry and blueberry. Not as structured as its Spanish cousins nor having the acidity. Still a nice find.CS4/12/20https://www.maturana-wines.cl/
Maturana2018Negra LoncomillaSan FranciscoRed92Nice bouquet of red fruits. More complex than expected. Almost creamy in texture. Spices on the palate.CS9/29/19https://www.maturana-wines.cl/
Maturana2018Loncomilla MauleGarnachaRed91a medium-bodied fruity wine. Ripe but on the red fruit side. Similar notes to the previous time I had this wine.AC4/9/22https://maturanawinery.com/
Maurizio Garibaldi2016AyenMaipoBlendRose91Syrah, Malbec, Durif. 1,133 bottles made. Small boutique producer founded in 2013. Organic and biodynamic approach. The wine comes from a part of Maipo at the border of Casablanca which the producer calls Maipo Costa, even if it’s not an official designation. The wine is fermented in barrel. The color is a striking pink tinged with orange. Beautiful nose: ripe fruit and sweet floral notes at first and then a bit of forest floor. The palate has medium acid. Pomegranate verging towards darker fruit. There are no hard edges and it’s light-bodied, but it’s still fuller than most roses. I’ve had lighter Pinot wines than this. However, the alcohol is only 12.5%. I’d say this is a New World red wine lover’s type of rose. You get some of the qualities of Syrah and Malbec in a lighter style. It’s sort of bigger and more complex like a Tavel, but it has a darker fruit profile given the varietals involved. Depending on the pairing, you might prefer something lighter, so I wouldn’t necessarily pair it with the same things I would with most roses. Perhaps it would go better with something like seared tuna or Vietnamese beef salad,AC12/6/20http://www.mauriziogaribaldi.com/
Maximus2012PremiumMauleMalbec, carmenereRed90Well balanced, dark fruit, whiff of green, easy drinker and well aged.CS9/2/19http://patagoniavineyards.com/index.php
Maycas del Limari2012San JulianLimariPinot NoirRed92Ripe red fruit, leather and floral notes. Relatively big Pinot, but remains fresh. Color shows its age. Small production of around 550 cases. AC11/17/17https://www.facebook.com/maycasdellimari/
Maycas del Limari2017Limestone Coast Reserva EspecialLimariPinot NoirRed87Not much going on. Some hints of dark cherry and herbs. minerality. Stays fresh but still darker for a Chilean Pinot.. Some vanilla and creaminess which makes it more velvety. It's just not very expressive and integrated despite elements of the wine looking promising. AC12/9/19https://www.facebook.com/maycasdellimari/
Maycas del LimariN/ASumaqLimariPinot NoirRed90earthy, barnyard on nose but palate more spicy. minerallly, modernAC9/16/17https://www.facebook.com/maycasdellimari/
Meli2015MauleCarignanRed85Just opened, rather dull, generic, lacked vibrancy or acidity typical of this grape. Dusty red fruit and smooth, but not much going on at the moment.AC8/10/18http://www.meli.cl/
Meli2015MauleRiselingWhite89Citrus and salinity on the nose. Dry clean and smooth. Not super complex. Could be more expressive on the palate especially. No oak used. Only around 500 cases made. AC4/21/18http://www.meli.cl/
Meli2015MauleCarignanRed94Aromas of chocolate, barrel spice, cafe and a wiff of smoke. Balanced flavor profile with complex dark fruit bouquet, gripping tanning and a nice acidic structure.CS10/14/19http://www.meli.cl/
Mendoza + Carriel2020AtavusCachapoalBlendRed91Blend of 50% Carmenere, 35% Syrah & 15% Sangiovese. Used barrels. Really silky smooth. Shy nose. Floral with a touch of pyrazine. Ripe purple fruit palate. Medium-low acid.AC4/22/23https://www.instagram.com/mendozacarriel_wines/?hl=en
Miguel Torres2016Santa DignaCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Nice floral Pinot, silky light elegant mouthfeel.AC8/19/19https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2015Santa Digna ReservaCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red86Dark fruit, eucalyptus, low acid. Some tannic structure. Mute nose.AC4/718https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2010Nectaria BotrytisCuricoRieslingDessert
90More acidic than an average Sauternes but not as rich and potent as a nice Sauternes. You get a kick of ginger from the botrytis that you don't get with most late harvest Chilean wines since they rarely use noble rot. I am reminded that this most have been harvested right after the earthquake that hit in late February 2010 in this region.AC12/24/19https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2016La CausaItataPaisRed88Dark berry fruit, some earthy notes. Modern style of Pais. Smooth. Still simple. Lacks acidity. AC10/27/19https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2015CordilleraMaipoCabernet S.Red89Ripe, spicy, silky feel, some vanilla oak. AC10/28/18https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2015Cordillera VIGNOMauleCarignanRed89Red fruit, minerality, high acid. Easy drinking. Versatile with food. AC10/28/18https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2015VIGNOMauleCarignanRed89Good example of a typical Carignan from Maule but at an everday level. Savoury herbal qualities with plenty of acidity, gripping tannins, but not heavy.AC7/26/19https://www.migueltorres.cl/en/
Miguel Torres2018Santa Digna Gran ReservaCentralCabernet S.Red90similar flavor profile to the Medalla Real tastes next to it. Classic Chilean, but a step up in elegance and silkiness. A little fruitier and less pyrazine. More international in style.AC5/22/22https://www.migueltorres.cl/
Miguel TorresNVSanta Digna EsteladoCentralPaísSparkling88First sparkling país I've ever seen or tasted. Larger and vigorous bubbles at the beginning. Quickly wear off. Not overly complex but a nice change of pace with obscurity. CS10/13/19https://www.torres.es/en/home
Miguel Torres NVEstelado BrutMaulePaisRose88Dry-farmed. Fine moderate amount of bubbles with medium persistence. Cherry fruit with a bitter note on the back end. Medium acid.AC1/1/24https://www.migueltorres.cl/
Millaman2018Limited Reserve Barrel AgedIsla de MaipoZinfandelRed9012,924 bottles made; The Millaman vineyard for their Zinfandel is located in the Isla de Maipo, which has lower elevation stony alluvial soils at warm temperatures with a slight marine influence. I couldn’t find information on the extent of the barrel aging: how much new oak, etc. I would say that this Zinfandel is not too far from your average Californian Zin. The nose features ripe candied bramble berry fruit and plum with chocolate and spice. The palate is more on the tangy berry fruit side with menthol, spice and pepper. Not as full or alcoholic as most Californian Zin but it’s still medium bodied and quite heady at 14.5% alcohol. It’s just a little light on the mid-palate.AC9/23/20https://www.millaman.cl/?lang=en,
Mingaco2020ItataCinsaultRedfruitier than the Pais. Super sour cherry.AC11/6/21http://vinosmingaco.cl/
Mingaco2020ItataPaisRedinteresting nose. Medicinal, herbs, brush, white flowers. Tandy fresh on the palate. Some tannins. A bit of funk.AC11/6/21http://vinosmingaco.cl/
Misiones de Rengo2018Central ValleyMerlotRed86Simple. Fruity Merlot. No hard edges. Not overdone. AC12/23/18http://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Misiones de Rengo2016RapelCabernet S.Red 85Simple modern fruity. One of the mass produced wines you can find for 5-7 bucks anywhere in Chile. AC6/26/18http://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Misiones de Rengo2022CentralSauvignon BlancWhite88Nose of white fruit, white flowers. Medium-low intensity. Palate is citrusy, slightly fizzy at first, with a touch of spice and jalapeno pepper. Some salinic minerality. Not as much length vs. more expensive SB, but solid for a bottom shelf wine, $5 wine.AC9/17/22https://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Misiones de RengoNVPremium BrutMultipleBlendSparkling86a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Semillon and Pinot Grigio sourced from Maule/Curico, Maipo, Casablanca and Leyda. Charmat method. The nose shows some bready notes and apple. Medium acid. Dry. Not too fruity and sweet like other Chilean espumante. Where it lacks is the number, fineness and persistency of the bubbles.AC1/28/23https://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Misiones de RengoNVPremium BrutMultipleBlendSparkling83Not much on the nose. A bit of white fruit. The palate features lots of bubbles but their big and not the most persistent. Medium acid. Some chalky minerality. Short finish.AC6/23/24https://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Missiones de Rengo2017Central ValleyMerlotRed88Simple ripe fruity wine, but balanced. But the nose is quite sexy. Crowdpleaser. AC11/2/19http://www.misionesderengo.cl/
Monte MariaReservaMaipoBlendRed86Interesting nose, earthy and herbal. But the palate was over-oaked and hot.AC4/14/19http://www.vinosmontemaria.cl/
Monte Maria2013MaipoCabernet S.Red90Coffee. Floral. Red fruit on the palate. Fresh. AC4/14/19http://www.vinosmontemaria.cl/
Montes2015AlphaAconcaguaPinot NoirRed92Very Burgundy nose-dirt, floral, spice. Palate more modern with dark cherry, medium acidity. AC9/22/17https://www.monteswines.com/en/
Montes2015AlphaAconcaguaPinot NoirRed90Not as good this time. A little oakier. Less acid. Served a little warm. AC9/28/17https://www.monteswines.com/en/
Montes2016Outer Limits Apalta Wild SlopesColchaguaCarignan blendRed9150% Carignan, 30% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre. Mediterannean nose, herbs, spice, red fruit. Palate is warm and has good acidity, spice, soft tannins.Single Vineyard from La Finca Apalta. Sees 20% new oak. About 2,000 cases made.AC3/15/19https://www.monteswines.com/en/
Montes2013AlphaColchaguaMerlotRed89Herbal, plum, dark fruit, low acidAC8/25/17https://www.monteswines.com/en/
MontesNVSparkling AngelZapallarPinot Noir, ChardonnaySparkling90Champagne Method, 36 months on lees. 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay. The nose reminds me sort of a coastal Chilean Sauvignon Blanc with an herbal and high acid citrus side, but it’s a little sweeter and fruitier. It’s fruity, but it’s tart, juicy fruit. You get that acidity and fruit on the palate too but there’s also a savory side to it. The mid-palate is lacking some, and it doesn’t have the puff pastry notes I like in Champagne despite the 36 months on lees. Overall, it would make a nice refreshing summer sparkling to drink on its own or with something like ceviche.AC6/19/21https://www.monteswines.com/
Montes2014Purple AngelColchaguaCarmenereRed92Colchagua 92% Carmenere, 8% Petit Verdot. Comes from vines in Apalta and Marchigüe. 18 months in new French oak barrels. Lots of upforward fruit and velvety feel. Toasty coffee. Medium-low acid. Some warmth. Obvious likeability for many given its upfront lushness, but not obviously Carmenere. I tasted it next to some top Old and New World Merlot, and it was hard to distinguish this as Carmenere from the Merlots. It could easily be a well-oaked Napa Merlot or modern Right Bank Bordeaux wine. At about 8 years of age, I wonder if it was even more lush and structured 5 years ago, so maybe this is in an in between stage. Maybe I'm underrating this some because I was hoping for more varietal characteristics, but it's a 92 for me now.AC1/14/22https://www.monteswines.com/
Montes2020Outer LimitsZapallarPinot NoirRed90Ripe fruity Pinot with a touch of savory oak notes. Still remains fresh on the palate with medium-light body. Higher alcohol than most Pinot from Chile.AC6/8/22https://www.monteswines.com/en/
Montgras2016Limited AntuLeydaPinot NoirRed90Red fruit, minerality, citrus. Some sweet oak. Light bodied. AC11/1/18https://montgras.cl/en/home/
MontGras2017QuatroColchaguaCabernet s., carmenere, syrah, malbecRedCabernet sauvignon, carmenere, syrah, malbec blend. Vanilla, dried dark fruits, think plum. Medium acidity with a wiff of cinnamon and black pepper.CS10/27/19https://montgras.cl/en/home/
MontGras2015ReservaColchaguaChardonnayWhite90Full bodied chardonnay. Oak aged. Slightly buttery with notes of vanilla and barrel. Wiffs of banana, pear, mango, tropical accents. Pear finish.CS10/27/19https://montgras.cl/en/home/
MontGras2018AmaralLeydaSauvignon blancWhite93For the price this is an excellent find. Acidic and tropical. Classic citrus notes with pronounced grapefruit. Leyda Valley still is supreme.CS11/16/19https://montgras.cl/en/amaral/
MontGras2020Handcrafted Rare SeriesMulchén Bio-BioRieslingWhite90100% Riesling grown on red clay soil. 5 months lees contact. All stainless steel. The nose starts off fruity and floral with savory notes with time. The palate is also loaded with upfront white fruit and peach but the acid and salinity make their prescence known after.AC3/5/24https://montgras.cl/en/amaral/
Montgras2021QuatroColchaguaBlendWhite9051% Vermentino, 23% Verdejo, 17% Viogner, 9% Albariño which is different than previous blends which were Chardonnay, Semillon, Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. Shy but fruity nose with a touch of savory herbal notes. Mostly white fruit. The palate is medium+ bodied. Although the fruit and body are upfront, there's an interplay of sour, bitter and salty on the end. Could be better integrated and more open with time. 90+AC3/17/23https://montgras.cl/en/
Montgras2022AmaralLeydaSauvignon blancWhiteA little fruitier than some but also spicy. Good acidity of course because of the variety and region plus some salinity.AC11/25/23https://montgras.cl/en/
Montsecano2016RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Producer is from Alsace and shows more of French sensibility. Some reduction, dirt, minerality. Red fruit, good acidity, minerality. No oak aging at all. AC1/13/18https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2017RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed93Ripe and bright red fruit. Potent nose and very floral. Palate follows through with similar flavors, but a little more restrained and elegant than the nose. A little over a 1000 cases made. Price in Chile 14-18 dollars. AC1/20/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2017RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Not as expressive this time around, but still has Pinot earthy and mineral qualities along with plenty of red fruit with elegant feel. Just not as aromatic and floral as the previous tasting.AC2/25/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2017CasablancaPinot NoirRed93No oak aging. Aged in concrete eggs. Has power, but the light and soft texture without all the oak. Vibrant dark and red fruit, floral, spice and minerality. Pure Pinot without all the make-up. Still also has tannins for aging. Only 130 cases made. 93+AC8/10/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed92Earthy and tangy red fruit, minerality. Light on its feet but still potent. No oak aging. Pure Pinot. AC4/24/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed93Complex nose. Red strawberry fruit, minerality, citrus. Then earthy and floral. Touch of spice. The palate is minerally red fruit and citrus. Still light on its feet but packing flavor. More open than the last time I had it.AC6/26/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Always a bit reductive at first with minerality. Palate has a nice red berry fruit, some florality, mint and grapefruit peel. Light in texture but packing a punch. Montsecano is consistently fragrant, red fruited, and elegant. Although, I've had more intense versions of this in the past.AC10/14/19https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018CasablancaPinot NoirRed92Served too cold. Cloudy red showing the unfiltered nature of the wine. Mineral, dirt, floral notes. Licorice. Mint. No hard edges. Darker and less acidic than the previous vintage. Feels bigger than the refugios of course, but more towards Rhone. I prefer the 2017 at the moment which was more red fruited and elegant, but this needed to be served warmer with a longer decant and a better pairing. 92+AC1/1/20https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2016CasablancaPinot NoirRedFlawedCorked. Unfortunate, because this is one of my favorite Chilean producers. AC8/29/20https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed90a little reduction, smoky and minerally. Strawberry. Zesty with a touch of sprtiziness at first. A little rustic natural wine funk, more than usual from this producer despite being more in that genre with aging done in cement eggs, natural yeast, no filtering or sulfites. Not as complex or pretty as in the past. Served a bit too cold. Might open up as it gets warmer. Or maybe it's just because the wine was kept at room temperature for more than a year, so without sulfites maybe it's lost some fruit. I liked it better the first time I had this.AC11/24/20https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2016MigranteCasablancaPinot Noir, MalbecRed87Different nose, sort of Right Bank Bordeaux with Pinot earthiness. Palate flat. Flabby. lacking depth. Bitter. AC9/14/17https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018La LeonieCasablancaChardonnayWhite91Destemmed. 4 days skin contact. Kept in upside down eggs called dolia with clay to get a similar effect as tinajas (clay amphorae). Only 1,300 bottles made. Doesn't feel like there's any malolactic. A producer that some qualify as natural wine and there's a bit re-fermentation giving it a slight fizz. Cloudiest color Probably the most acidic of the wines but the skin contact gives it a spicy vegetal and oxidative side the other Chardonnays don't have.AC11/12/21https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2017CasablancaPinot NoirRed92I’ve had this wine before about 2 years ago. It’s lost a lot of its floral and red fruit nose on the nose and in place of that, there’s more earthy, meaty, smoky and stinky notes. Mineral notes. The palate feels a bit awkward. There’s still red fruit and good acidity, but it feels thinner. There are also some tea notes. It’s softened up but still feels in between stages while the nose has basically gone to secondary and tertiary notes. Only 125 cases made.AC9/24/22https://www.montsecano.com/
Montsecano2018RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Definitely smelled more natural than the Dog Point Pinot. Red fruit. Floral. A bit more acid too with more savory notes on the palate.AC12/7/22https://www.montsecano.com/es/inicio/
Montsecano2021RefugioCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Some orange tanginess, red fruit and natural vibe. A little lighter than the 2018 next to it, but also a mix of red fruit and savory notes.AC12/7/22https://www.montsecano.com/es/inicio/
Montsecano2020CasablancaPinot NoirRed92Blind tasted. Also natural wine, but rather fruity and floral, with a step up in intensity and elegance and nothing funky …Montsecano 2020 … younger than I normally drink this wine (bottled 3 months ago), so interesting to have it so primary. Julio (owner) said that it leans towards darker fruits more than normal but it may still develop more towards the red fruit and more of the earthy, slightly funky notes that can come. Has more modern appeal at this stage but it doesn't lack acidity and substance for aging and evolution. Julio was happy with it. 92+AC4/26/23https://www.montsecano.com/es/inicio/
Morande2018El Gran PetitCachapoalPetit Verdot, Petite SirahRed90Strange blend of 50/50 Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah. Hence the name. Dark color but not opaque. Coffee, herbal and dark berry fruit on the nose. Palate is dark berries too with some menthol medicinal notes. Thick texture. Stays relatively fresh though. Aged in concrete eggs. AC12/15/19http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2014Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Floral. Minerality. Candy cherry and strawberry fruit. Some spicy oak. A little thicker than most from here. Only 10 bucks.AC4/3/18http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2017Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Earthy nose. Red fruit palate. Standard. Lacks elegance of some Pinots.AC3/31/19http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2017Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red90Had next to a 2014 Montlandrie Cotes de Castillon and it was not that far off in style and flavor profile. They both have minerality and herbal notes, but the Morande is a little more overtly sweet and fruity. The Morande is also less structured for longterm drinking yet was slightly less elegant. Still it's a very good wine.AC12/13/19http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2011Mediterraneo Limitada BlackMauleBlendRed9154% Garnacha/ 22% Syrah/ 17% Carignan/ 4% Marsanne/ 3% Roussanne. Dark berry fruit, some Chilean herbaceous notes, almond paste, spice. Lush fruit, raspberry tang on the end. Touch of heat. Modern southern Rhone like. However, unlike Chilean Pinot from Casablanca or Leyda, Grenache and Carignan based wines tend to be more expensive. This was about 27 bucks. AC4/17/18http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2016Adventure MediterraneoMauleBlendRed90Good acid. Savoury herbs on the nose. Dark and red fruit. Fruit forward overall. Not that far off from a Rhone wine with Grenache, Carignan, Syrah, Marsanne, Roussanne.AC8/20/19http://www.morande.cl/web/english/wines/
Morande2018VIGNO AdventureMauleCarignanRed92Like the aromatics on this one. Savory, sweet and bitter with dried herbs, tobacco, coffee and a little mint. The palate features sour cherry with some soy-like savory notes. Elegant feel. Not as big as some VIGNO. Already drinking well, but the acidity should keep it for a while.AC2/6/22https://www.morande.cl/web/
Morande2019Bestiario AdventureMauleBlendWhite9045% Roussanne – 10% Viognier; 9 months in concrete egg. Destemmed. 6 months skin contact. Viognier comes from Casablanca and the Marsanne and Roussanne are from Maule. The point was to make an unconventional wine with uncommon varietals (for Chile) in sort of an orange wine way. It has a tinge of orange to the yellow color, but I wouldn’t say it’s amber or orange in color, but with 6 months skin contact, one could call it an orange wine, but skin-contact white wine would be the best descriptor. White flowers, white fruit (sort apple cider) and a bit of savory vegetables on the nose. The palate is similar but has plenty of acidity but is also creamy. At the same time, it’s medium-bodied and not oily, full-bodied, in terms of white wines.AC3/26/22https://www.morande.cl/web/
Morande2019Vinos del Maule Terroir Wines Pequeños ProductoresMauleCarmenere MalbecRed8966% Carmenere (20 year old vines), 34% Malbec (50 year old vines); Cold maceration. 12 months aging in French oak barrels and foudres. Dark color. More Malbec like in color. Shy nose at first that opens up with time and air. You get oak spice, herbal and tomato leaf notes and dark fruit. It's both savory and aromatic, minty herbs. The palate shows red and dark fruit with good acidity, but a bit lacking on the mid-palate. Medium-bodied. Not your typical commercial Carmenere from Chile or commercial Malbec from Argentina. It's lighter and more acidic with more red fruit. It's actually closer to the Carignan from Maule in style and flavor profile.AC1/2/23https://www.morande.cl/web/english/
Moretta2018SintrucoCentral ValleyBlendRed91This is a blend of 4 grapes from 3 valleys. 37% Carignan & 23% Cabernet Sauvignon from Maule, 30% Carmenere from Colchagua, and 10% Syrah from Maipo. 3,940 bottles produced. Unfiltered. Native yeasts. Aged 10 months in 20% new and 80% used French oak. It has a nice nose of ripe dark and red berry fruit, garrigue and spice. It’s sort of like a southern Rhone and Bordeaux wine combined. The palate is fruit driven, fairly round, with the carignan giving it plenty of acidity along with a bit of licorice. This is relatively modern compared to the other independent wineries I’ve had recently, but I like what the carignan brings to what would otherwise be a more typical Chilean blend. It makes it feel more like a Super-Tuscan wine.AC11/3/20https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2017CenicientoMauleCabernet S.Red89Good acid. Red fruit. Some tannins. AC4/14/19https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2016MauleCarignanRed90Red fruit candy, riper than most, but still fresh, earthy and floral. AC11/25/18https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2016MauleCarignanRed91Only 1489 bottles. Earthy, spice, Red licorice. Red fruit, acid, some savoury notes.AC4/14/19https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2017Carigno del MauleMauleCarignanRed88Very earthy. Barrel notes and spice. Red fruits.CS9/1/19https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2015Carigno del MauleMauleCarignanRed90Concentrated and complex, good use of oak, wet forest floor.CS6/20/19https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2017VedetteMauleCinsaultRed83Not in balance. Some tannins, light on the palate.CS9/1/19https://www.morettawines.cl/
Moretta2021LesespiasMauleChenin BlancWhite8 months on lees. Clean. Medium-acid. Some roudness and body, but overall a light white. Some spice.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2021LesespiasMauleChenin BlancWhite8834-year-old vines. Vinified in Flex eggs and tanks. Native yeasts. 8 months on lees. Only 5,275 bottles made. Similar notes to the previous time I tasted this. There’s some ripe apple fruit but overall, the wine is very lees influenced with a round, creamy, yogurt like palate with a medium-light body and medium acid. There’s a bit of savory minerality, but more acidity would help reveal more of that. It’s still easy to drink and a good deal at $8.AChttps://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2021VedetteMauleCinsaultRed75 year old vines, Dry-farmed. Spicer, more herbal Cinsault. Some earth notes on the nose too. Sort of Pinot like. On the palate there are more tannins most Chilean/Itata Cinsault and a touch of heat. Needs a bit of time.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2021LesespiasMaipoCabernet S.Red– shy dark fruit nose. Palate is full, tannic, touch of heat. Medium acid. Neutral oak used.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2020CenicentoMauleCabernet S.RedMore expressive than the Lesespias at the moment. Dark fruit but more herbal notes. A lot fresher. Spice. Tannins are softer. It’s a cooler climate but also has an extra year of age.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2019SintrucoColchagua MalbecRedComes from young vines. 30% whole cluster. 9 months concrete. 9 months used barrels. Chocolate, shy nose. Dark fruit palate. Moderate tannins.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2019SintrucoCentral ValleyBlendRedCarignan and Cabernet Sauvignon from Maule and a bit of Syrah from Maipo. Nice fruit and herbal notes on the nose with some chocolate. Most elegant of all their wines in the tasting. Medium acid. Moderate tannins.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2020CarignoMauleCarignanRed80 year old vines. Herbal nose. Least fruity of the selection. A little darker fruit than most Chilean Carignan but still medium+ acid. Really tannic. Needs time.AC3/30/23https://morettawines.cl/en
Moretta2020CarignoMauleCarignanRed90Typical Carignan from Maule with a sour and savory profile. The nose is particularly more on the savory side. Balsamic and spicy. Somewhat high alcohol. Medium-bodied. Present tannins that melt away food. Good length but a bit light mid palate.AC11/24/24https://morettawines.cl/en
Mujer Andina2022El InfatableNueva Imperial CautinPinot NoirRed89Light, fruity and floral on the nose, but the palate is rather spicy and a little green. Interesting contrast. Light-bodied. Medium-low acid.AC11/10/23https://www.mujerandinawines.cl/
Narbona2020MaipoPetit VerdotRed88A little green and austere in terms of fruit, but good acid and tannic structure. However, a little oaky with some heat. But it's starting integrate and express itself more with time so it could get better. 88+AC3/25/23https://narbonawines.com/
Nerkihue2015QuiebreColchaguaCarmenereRed88Medicinal herbs, modern Carmenere with oak and creaminess, riper. AC10/23/17http://www.nerkihue.com/home
Neyen2013Apalta ColchaguaBlendRed88Blind tasted. Darkest color all night, lots of oak in the form of chocolate and coffee. Dark fruit. Still tannins to resolve. A touch of herbal notes. Overall, too oaky at the moment. Not enough fruit to cover the oak. Someone thought it was a Rioja which can be too oaky when young. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Carmenere. Not sure if this was past its prime or needs more time to get out of an awkward stage.AC6/14/23https://www.neyen.cl/es/
OC Wines2017Inicio Extra BrutCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling88Better than the Inquieto. Drier, with some savoury minerality. Uses traditional method.AC2/14/20http://www.ocwines.cl/nosotros.html
OC Wines2019Inquieto BrutCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling86Fruity with some citrus.On the sweet side like many Chilean espumante.AC2/14/20http://www.ocwines.cl/nosotros.html
Odfjell2017OrzadaMauleCarmenereRed88Nice nose, garrigue and earth. Palate is modern, creamy, dark, sweet with some heat. AC8/10/18https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Odfjell2018OrzadaMauleCarmenereRed86Typical peppercorn nose, but the palate overdone with oak and heat. Big dark fruit. AC2/28/20https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Odfjell2014OrzadaMauleTannatRed86Super dark color. Lots of oak and hear on nose and palate. Ripe blueberry, dark cherry, spicy vanilla, chocolate. Low acid. Right now feels overdone and too modern. Perhaps it will settle down. It has more substance than most but it's not together. The owner is Norwegian. AC6/30/18https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Odfjell2016OrzadaMaule, LontueMalbec Red86Oaky. Spicy. Full and dark, but not very interesting. AC4/17/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Odfjell2018ArmadorCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite82Basic aromas and flavors. Herbal, cut grass, citrus.CS10/11/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/
Odfjell2018Capítulo Fly FishMauleCabernet s., malbec, syrah, carignanRed83Simple bottle here. Basic red fruits mixed with some blackberry. Notes of barrels.CS10/11/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/
Odfjell2018OrzadaMauleCarmenereRed87Barrel notes, oak vanilla. Red fruits, herbal, tomato leaf with heavy all spice.CS10/11/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/
Odjfjell 2018Capitulo Flying FishCentral ValleyBlendRed90I find this much fresher than most Odfjell wines. Fruity but with earthy notes. Some Rhone like garrigue. Blend of Malbec, Carignan, Cabernet S. and Syrah. AC10/11/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Odjfjell 2018OrzadaMauleCarmenereRed87Smoky bell pepper. A little fresher than previous experiences with Odfjell. However, there is still some heat and bitter oak notes that need to be resolved. AC10/11/19https://odfjellvineyards.cl/en/home/
Origenes2018MauleCabernet FrancRed89Really small producer. Only 775 bottles of this made. Spent some time in used French oak barrels. This is a new project from a Chilean couple who left their programming and civil engineering careers to work in the wine industry. They also make a Syrah, Tempranillo and Sauvignon Blanc. This has a nose of medium intensity with a tiny bit of floral notes, but it’s mostly about herbal notes with some underlying red fruit. There’s a bit of toasty, spicy vanilla too. The palate features red berry fruits, a velvety texture, but there’s a slight bitterness and heat on the back end. Also, the fruit is a bit too candy sweet for me. Perhaps my rating is a bit unfair because I had this next to a Garage Wine Company Cabernet Franc, which is twice the price.AC10/12/20https://www.facebook.com/origenes_wines-102561881395659/
Origenes2019MauleCabernet FrancRed91Around 16 months in 1 time use French oak. Native yeasts. Some herbaceous notes, but also floral. Forest floor. Juicy palate of dark raspberry. Moderate tannins.AC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/origenes_wines-102561881395659
Origenes2019ColchaguaPinot NoirRed85has a nose of dark dry fruit and a light simple palate with a thin mid-palate.AC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/origenes_wines-102561881395659
Origenes2019MaipoTempranilloRed89features notes of forest floor, good acidity, juicy plum, medium tannins.AC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/origenes_wines-102561881395659
Origenes2018San AntonioSauvignon BlancWhite89Nose of green asparagus and a palate of fresh green apple. Typical Chilean Sauv Blanc but a little more vegetal on the nose than some.AC10/2/21https://www.facebook.com/origenes_wines-102561881395659
Oveja Negra (San Rafael)2018Single VineyardMauleCarignanRed9010-12 months in new and used French oak. Cienaga de Name Vineyard-80 year old vines. It starts off rather Chianti-like with dried herbal, spice notes on the nose and sour cherry on the palate. However, it becomes more modern/international with some air with more overt oak notes of sweet vanilla and chocolate on the nose and palate. Overall, it has less acidic and tannic structure than most Chilean Carignan/Vigno. Creamier on the palate. But it still represents the variety and region well. It’s a good entry level Carignan to get a taste of the variety with its spice, herbs and acidity while also being softer for beginners in terms of the acidity and tannins. Plus the sweet oak notes. Can find it for around $10. AC8/9/22https://www.ovejanegra.com/home
Ovni2016DivinoMaule, Secano InteriorCarignan, PaisRed90Ripe red fruit. Red licorice. Some herbaceous qualities. Both savoury and fruity at the same time. Some tannic structure. AC9/1/19ovniwines@gmail.com
OVNI2018DivinoItataPais-CarignanRed8950-50 Carignan & Pais. Some chalky notes, slightly floral. A bit tannic for the varietals, but the Pais lowers the acid and darkens the fruit of the Carignan.AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/ovniwines/?hl=en
OVNI2017Encuentro SecanoItataMerlotRed90comes from 40 year old vines. Ripe soft dark fruit, slightly floral. Round but still decent acid. Spends 15 months in 3rd use American oak.AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/ovniwines/?hl=en
OVNI2017Encuentro SecanoItataMerlotRed90The nose is ripe with dark and red fruit, but fresh. The palate also displays rich fruit with a touch of spice on the back-end. There was a touch of heat and first, but it faded. Overall, it’s still quite youthful, primary and fruit driven, but not overdone or flabby.AC12/4/21https://www.instagram.com/ovniwines/?hl=en
OVNI2018Octavo PasajeroItataCarignanRed8918 months in barrel, dried frui ton the nose, plum, cherry. Plenty of acid and hefty tannins for a Carignan Needs more time. 89+AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/ovniwines/?hl=en
Ovni2016DivinoCentralCarignan, PaísRed94Minerality, gravel, some barrel accents, cherry and red fruit aromas.CS9/1/19ovniwines@gmail.com
OWM2016HandmadeColchaguaBlendRed88Mostly Carmenere and Cab S. blend. Light feel yet tannic. Red fruit driven.AC11/25/18 https://www.owmwines.cl/
OWM2016ContaoColchaguaMalbecRed89Candied nose. Floral. Light feel.AC11/25/18 https://www.owmwines.cl/
OWM2016DivinoColchaguaPetite Sirah, Petit VerdotRed89Dark fruit. Tannic. Kirsch. Full-bodied. Glycerin. A bit sweet.AC11/25/18 https://www.owmwines.cl/
OWM2016ContaoColchaguaTempranillo, Cabernet S.Red87Sort of a bitter after taste, Some heat. Dark fruit. Floral notes.AC11/25/18 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016ContaoCachapoalCarmenere, petite sirahRed88Intense body, dark purple in color. Balanced with solid tannic structures. Barrel spice, dark fruits.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016Hand MadeColchaguaCabernet s., petit verdot, camenere, petite sirahRed89Nice blend, balanced, large concentrated red fruit aromas. Slightly minty with eucalyptus.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016Pillo de PanamaColchaguaCabernet s., syrahRed90Dried plum, very ripe blackberry and blueberry aromas. Pepper on the palate with some all-spice and oak.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016ContaoColchaguaMalbecRed93Coffee on the nose. Lighter malbec than expected. Balanced. Some raspberry. Still structured.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016ContaoColchaguaMerlotRed89Slightly more powerful than expected. Vanilla, oak. Wiff of earth.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
Owm2016ContaoColchaguaTempranillo, cabernet s.Red90Interesting blend. Very aromatic. Oak barrel notes, red fruits, black pepper.CS9/1/19 https://www.owmwines.cl/
P.S. Garcia2016SofiaCasablancaPinot NoirRed88Nice Pinot nose -earthy minerally. No hard edges, but some oak and low acid. Palate not as good as nose. This is the new name of Garcia Schwaderer.AC6/5/18http://www.psgarcia.cl/?list12=7
P.S. Garcia2016Piedra Lisa VineyardItataMourvedreRed901,758 bottles made. 100% Mourvedre grafted on 100+ year old bush-trained vines of the Piedra Lisa Vineyard. 23 months in French oak barrels. PnP. On the nose, there are some typical Mourvedre notes of savory earthy and meaty notes, but there’s also a touch of vanilla oak. On the palate, it’s rather modern for a Mourvedre, since it’s dominated by red fruit with a lot of acidity, an elegant creamy feel and some creamy vanilla oak notes that are well integrated. It reminds me more of a Maule/Itata Carignan based wine than an Old World Mourvedre/Monastrell, especially on the palate.AC9/27/20http://www.psgarcia.cl/?list12=7
P.S. Garcia2016Piedra Lisa VineyardItataMourvedreRed87Earthy with a solid body. Hints of smoke and a note of mint.CS4/26/20http://www.psgarcia.cl/?list12=7
Pajo2021Vina La QuiriguaSauvignon BlancMauleWhite90Some tropical fruit, green notes, but fruit driven overall. Some minerality.AC4/22/23https://pajowine.com/
Pajo2020Vina La QuiriguaCarmenereCachapoalRed9012 months in barrel. Typical flavor profile with nice ripe fruit and elegant feel.AC4/22/23https://pajowine.com/
Pandolfi Price2018LarkunItataRieslingWhite9012 months over lees in stainless steel tanks. Volcanic soil and clay. Around 4000 bottles produced. Ripe fruity nose with a touch of minerality and herbal notes. Apple. Lots of acidity but also there’s a salinic side too. Light-bodied.AC4/27/22https://pandolfiprice.cl/
Pargua2013AnkaMaipoCabernet S.Red88Cab S. blend. French winemaker and the nose is rather Bordeaux like-cool dark fruit. Menthol. Herbs. Spice. Low acid. Creamy. Palate more modern and less refined.Nose more classic.AC11/30/17https://www.pargua-wines.com/
Parker2020ColchaguaSemillonWhite90American winemaker from Napa who has worked in various aspects in the industry in places like Joseph Phelps in Napa and Viu Manent and Casa Donoso in Chile. He also makes apple and pear cider. He bought a vineyard in Colchagua in 2018 with vines planted in the 1920’s. some herbal notes, but mostly a lively, fresh, medium bodied white. AC9/10/22https://parkerwineco.cl/
Parker2019ColchaguaCabernet S. Red92Almost 2 years in a combo of neutral oak, flex tanks (plastic tanks that breathe), and 15% new oak. Ripe and floral. Dark and red fruits. Elegant feel. No pyrazine notes you often get from Colchagua. It’s just pure, silky fruit.AC9/10/22https://parkerwineco.cl/
Patagonia Conservation2022Nature RulesChileSauvignon BlancWhite89Relatively shy nose with a touch of floral, citrus and jalapeño with white fruit. The palate shows upfront fruit with plenty of acidity, light+ body and a very savory but long finish-savory herbs and just salinity. Ultimately a typical solid Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, probably sourced from Casablanca and/or San Antonio. The website seems to imply that Cono Sur is part of the wine side of this project. AC8/24/23https://patagoniaconservation.com/
Pedro Parra2020ImaginadorItataCinsaultRed91fruity minerally nose, native yeasts most likely. Chalky tannins. Fuller and more alcohol than I remember the last time I tried this wine, albeit a different vintage. Darker fruit too. Still medium-light bodied. Floral. Low acid. After 30 minutes, it became much more elegant and floral dominated.AC6/8/22https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2019ImaginadorItataCinsaultRed92pretty floral nose but with some earthy notes. Burgundy-like. The palate is light and elegant, medium acid, but with some tannic structure-more than most Cinsault. Parra uses 60% whole cluster with stems and partial oak aging. There's a minerally, chalky side to the palate too.AC12/5/21https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2018VinistaItataPaisRed91This is Pedro Parra’s first Pais under his family label. It’s made from very old dry-farmed Pais grapes on granite-quartz soils. 30% full-clusters were used and natural yeast. It was aged in large oak and concrete vats. This is a Pais that leans towards Beaujolais rather than the rustic versions you can find in Chile. The nose has some earthy herbal notes and the palate is red fruit dominated along with floral notes. What really stands out is the weightlessness and elegance on the palate. Only 544 cases were made.AC9/9/20https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2015PencopolitanoItata, CauquenesBlendRed92I'm not 100% sure on the blend. I've seen conflicting notes. Mostly Cinsault with Carignan, Malbec, Syrah, and Carmenere. Comes from 6 different vineyards. Vines 45-90 years old. Around 1,100 cases made. No wood used. Since it's terroir specialist Pedro Parra, he's trying to let the terroir speak more than the varietal, which is a red granitic sandy quartz soil. Ripe red fruit. Cinnamon. Some earthy mineral notes. Perhaps the granitic soil. Has a nice savoury-sour balance to it. Bright and moderately intense. AC9/23/19https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2015PencopolitanoItata, CauquenesBlendRed91Nose definitely reminds me of Southern Rhone with garrigue and spice. Also some coffee. Palate is smooth, with good acidity. Some herbaceous notes. Mostly Carignan and Cinsault with other grapes such as Carmenere, Malbec, Syrah and maybe Pais. AC3/13/20https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2015P PencopolitanoItataBlendRed92Red blend of carignan, país, cinsault and carmenere. Notes of blueberry and black cherry. Slightly earthy with a hint of smoke.CS3/13/20https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Pedro Parra y Familia2021MonkItataCinsaultRed93Typical light transparent color, but a little darker than the Badenhorst. There’s a little more tannic structure and a lot more acidity. High acid. Mineral driven with a long salty finish. Still light and elegant like Cinsault tends to be, but unlike the Badenhorst, which is more fruity, floral and aromatic, the Monk has more tension, length, acidity and is mineral driven but a little tight, so I think it’ll improve. 93+AC5/24/24https://www.instagram.com/pedroparraterroir/?hl=en
Peralillo2018HxSur Special Reserve ColchaguaCabernet S. CarmenereRed88nose of sweet baking spice, round dark fruit, med-low acid, medium tannins. Not much midpalate.AC10/2/21https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo2015Avistamiento Grand Reserve Alto de LircayValle CentralSyrahRed89shows dark spicy fruit, pepper but with good acidity, licorice, medium tannic structure. 89+AC10/2/21https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo20182 Valles Gran ReservaItataPinot NoirRed90no Wood, light and fresh, floral Pinot. Red fruit. Some tannic structure.AC10/1/22https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo20172 VallesMauleMalbecRed88From 120 year old vines. Quite tannic. Dark fruit. Rather closed overall. Medium acid. Some savory notes. 88+AC10/1/22https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo2015Altos de LircayCentralSyrahRed87Fruity aromas, mature fruit, Balanced tannins acid structure alcohol. Dark garnet color. CS9/2/19https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo2016Altos de LircayColchaguaChardonnayWhite88Pear, yellow apple, oak. Slightly buttery and a whiff of toast.CS9/2/19https://winediplomats.com/
Peralillo2015Altos Lircay Avistamiento Gran ReservaMauleCabernet S.,Red88Ruby red. Notable raspberry and cherry aromas. Oak aging, vanilla and coffee. Slightly herbal of green bell pepper. Soft tanning.CS9/4/19https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo2016Altos Lircay SecuestroMauleCabernet S., Carmenere, SyrahRed8850% Cabernet sauvignon, 35% carmenere, 15% syrah. Notes of chocolate, dark fruit, lower acidity.CS9/2/19https://peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo 20182 Valles Gran ReservaItataPinot NoirRed88earthy nose, red fruity floral palate, médium acid. Like the flavor profile, but lacking verve.AC4/22/23https://www.peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo Wines2016Hoppe del Sur Special ReservaColchaguaCabernet S., CarmenereRed9085 CS/15 Carmenere. Typical nose of green pepper and coffee. Dark fruit. Good acid. AC4/14/19https://www.peralillowines.cl/
Peralillo Wines2012MaximusMauleCarmenere, MalbecRed93Nice purity of fruit, good acidity. Floral and herbal nose. 14 months new oak. Red cassis, cherry, soft but gripping tannins.AC4/14/19https://www.peralillowines.cl/
Perez Cruz2015Limited EditionMaipoCabernet FrancRed90Shy nose, but with some green pepper. Palate has high tone ripe raspberry fruit, fresh, well integrated oak. Some tannic structure. Mint. AC10/29/18https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2016Limited EditionMaipoCabernet FrancRed89Roasted pepper, soft palate. Red fruit. Some oak. AC4/26/19https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2014Pircas de LiguaiMaipoCabernet S.Red92About 28 dollars on sale. Classic Maipo Cab. Modern but not overdone. Touch of herbiness. Dark cassis. Vanila. Fruit driven. Great texture which puts it above cheaper Cabs.AC8/13/19https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2015Limited EditionMaipoCabernet S.Red91Drunk this next to a 2014 D'Hanteillan Haut Medoc Bordeaux. Found this typically Chilean in the flavor profile. Some green notes. Ripe cassis. Medium-low acidity. However, this is riper, more vibrant and silkier than most. More modern as expected than the more classic Bordeaux. Costs around 20-22 bucks. AC5/29/18https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2016Limited EditionMaipoMalbec (Cot)Red92Nice ripe high tone fruit, some tobacco. Smooth. Elegant. Juicy. Fresh. Well integrated oak giving it some complexity. Some vanilla. Violet. Definitely within the Perez Cruz modern style, but not over the top and well done. Should be a crowd pleaser.AC4/17/19https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2013ChaskiMaipoPetit VerdotRed92Reminded me of left bank Bordeaux on the nose. Fresh minerality. Subtle earth notes. Palate is more modern. Thick. Dark ripe fruit, but still fresh and no signs of alcohol. 100% Petit Verdot. Has nice verve. 92+AC12/27/17https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2014ChaskiMaipoPetit VerdotRed92Native yeasts used for fermentation in stainless steel vats and then aged in French oak barrels (60% new) for 16 months. Complex nose of ripe red berry fruit, herbs, spices, tobacco, tomato leaf, and caramel. On the palate it’s quite elegant despite the 14.5% alcohol. Good freshness. Still something to have with grilled meat, game, but not as tannic as you’d expect a Petit Verdot to be. Maybe the almost 7 years of age has also softened it up. Perez Cruz is a consistent producer that represents the typical style of Chilean wine coming from Maipo these days: both modern and restrained, like a modern left bank Bordeaux wine. At the same time, I’m not sure I could tell the difference between this and one of their nicer Maipo Cabernets. They make around 1,500 cases of this. Excellent wine, but I liked the 2013 more.AC1/15/21https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2017Limited EditionMaipoSyrahRed90Doesn't make me think of Syrah. Fits the general modern but clean style of Perez Cruz. Silky ripe fruit palate. Tobacco. AC4/26/19https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2018Estate Limited EditionMaipoGrenacheRed87Juicy red fruit forward aromas and on the palate. Oak aging and spices. Not overly complex but a nice drinker.CS9/30/19https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Perez Cruz2013Quelen Special SelectionMaipoPetit Verdot, Carménère, malbecRed8752% Petit Verdot, 28% Carménère and 20% malbec (cot). This wine is highly rated, sadly, I was underwhelmed. While still engaging it did not meet my expectations. Hints of spice, mint and eucalyptus. Will need to revisit in the future with a younger vintage.CS1/5/20https://www.perezcruz.com/en/
Peroli2019UmaraItataCarignanRedCarignan aged in used barrels. Much more structured and acidic than their Cinsault. Herbs and spice.AC11/6/21https://www.peroli.cl/
Peroli2019UyakItataCinsaultRedCinsault -Used old barrels and tinajas. Savory. Darker than the Carignan. Still freshness on the palate.AC11/6/21https://www.peroli.cl/
Peumayen2018Equilibrado EnsamblajeAconcaguaBlendRed89Mostly Cabernet S. with some Syrah, Carmenere and Petit Verdot. Rather standard Chilean red with ripe fruit, baking spice and tiny bit of pyrazine. It carries through to the palate with general overall balance, medium body, medium acidity but a touch of heat.AC3/25/23https://peumayen.cl/
Pino Roman2020ItataTorontelOrangeItata Costa Torontel – Fermented in tinajas and stayed in skins all winter. White flowers. Apple. Good acid. Savory and spicy.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/pino.roman/?hl=en
Pino Roman2021ItataPaisSparklingPetnat Pais -light, strawberry with some yeasty notes.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/pino.roman/?hl=en
PKNT2016CasablancaPinot NoirRed87Quite reductive nose. Minerality. Palate a bit disjointed with some heat. Otherwise a fairly standard Casablanca Pinot.AC2/25/19http://www.pknt.com/
Pocoa2018Explora ReservaMauleCarmenereRed88Earthy, smoky tobacco on the nose. Fruit forward palate, medium bodied. dark red fruit. Some spice. Solid wine.AC11/3/19https://tiendacasadonoso.cl/collections/pocoa
Polkura2016GSM+TColchaguaBlendRed9228% Grenache, 45% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 13% Mourvedre 2,342 bottles made. – Immediately a big whiff of ripe dark berry fruit. Underneath there’s a touch of savory herbs, pepper, a bit of meatiness and clay. On the palate there’s more of that ripe fruit but with good acidity. It holds its 14.5% alcohol well and the tannins are soft and tamed. Overall, a fruit driven wine that doesn’t go over the top in terms of alcohol and flabbiness. The acidity keeps it together. Only used oak is used, so there’s not much influence of wood. Unfiltered. I can’t say there’s much influence from the Tempranillo, but it’s an interesting blend nonetheless.AC6/11/20http://www.polkura.cl
Polkura2010MarchigueColchaguaSyrahRed91Second time having this. Nose sweet and floral. Palate ripe dark fruit, tannic but soft tannins. First time I had this, it was a bit hot and oaky, but it has since integrated.AC3/4/16https://polkura.cl/home/?lang=en
Polkura2014MarchigueColchaguaSyrahRed91Syrah with a tiny bit of Malbec, Grenache and Tempranillo. Polkura means yellow stone because it is grown on yellow granite terroir. One of the few producers who focus on Syrah in Colchagua. Ripe. Dark. Fruit forward. Round, but stays fresh. Had this next to a 2016 Cornas wine which was less fruity showing more minerality and herbal notes but still good ripeness, but neither were full on Australian Shiraz in style. Polkura is a wine that you can find at Movenpick in Europe. AC1/25/19https://polkura.cl/home/?lang=en
Polkura2019SecanoColchaguaSyrahRed9280% Syrah, 10% Grenache, 10% Carignan ~1,400 bottles; Dry-farmed. Selected yeasts. 18 months in used French oak. No fining or filtration. More transparent in color than the Crozes-Hermitage but a similar hue. Has a nose that reminds me of Carmenere more than Syrah, with green peppercorn notes. Riper fruit and slightly less acidity (but still good acid) than the French wine. But you don't get the 15% alcohol at all. Smooth and round.AC5/14/22https://polkura.cl/?lang=en
Polkura2016GSM+TColchaguaBlendRed95Well rounded with tropical notes. Medium bodied and a nice finish.CS5/2/20http://www.polkura.cl
Porta2015Gran ReservaBio-BioChardonnayWhite87Fruity with a subtle peach flavor. Easy drinker. Nothing overly complex but a good value.CS11/20/16http://vinaporta.cl/
Porta2014Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red92Easy drinker, smooth, red fruit forward finish with a rounded mouth feel. Excellent value for the price point. Drinks higher than $14CS11/20/16http://www.vinaporta.cl/en/
Porta2014AconcaguaCabernet S.Red85$9 with black berry black fruit forward flavors. Simple, decent for the price point.CS
11/20/16http://www.vinaporta.cl/en/
Portal del Alto2016?Gran ReservaMauleCarmenereRed89Coffee, green pepper. Rich dark fruit. AC11/23/18http://www.portaldelalto.cl/heritage/?lang=en
Portal del Alto2017TardioMauleSyrahDessertsmells like an old 20 year old red. Some of that is perhaps premature aging but also sun-dried late harvested grapes. Dark color but also looking like an aged wine. The aged nature keeps it from being to sweet or alcoholic.AC4/9/22https://www.portaldelalto.cl/
Portazo2021Malbec CostaColchaguaMalbecRed92Floral nose. Lots of acidic grip for a Malbec. Red and dark berry fruit. Moderate tannins. Aged in Cocciopesto (a type of Roman plaster and not clay) amphorae and oak barrels. Only 1,139 bottles made.AC10/1/22https://www.facebook.com/people/El-Portazo/100063611886450/
Portazo2019Syrah CostaMaipoSyrahRed91Cocciopesto amphorae, concrete and oak barrels. More savory than the Malbec. Olves, meatiness and herbs. More tannic too. Still a fresh, cooler climate Syrah.AC10/1/22https://www.facebook.com/people/El-Portazo/100063611886450/
Portrero Seco2016Reserva PrivadaMaipoPetit VerdotRed90Nose of dark fruit, bay leaf. Low acid. Tannic. Licorice. Cola.AC10/2/21http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/Portada-ENG/
Portrero Seco2014MaipoCabernet FrancRed91herbal and leafy nose. Dark red fruit with more acidity than their Petit Verdot. Savory notes. Still tannins to resolveAC10/2/21http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/Portada-ENG/
Portrero Seco Familia Vercellino2015 Reserva PrivadaMaipoBlendRed90A little animal on the nose, dark fruit, tannic, coffee. Fairly balanced.AC4/14/19http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/Portada-ENG/
Portrero Seco Familia Vercellino2013MaipoCabernet FrancRed89Nose is floral, vegetal and savoury. Palate is quite ripe and dark for Cabernet Franc. AC11/23/18http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/Portada-ENG/
Portrero Seco Familia Vercellino2013 ReservaMaipoCabernet FrancRed89Fairly tannic, savoury but reticent nose, some floral notes.AC4/14/19http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/Portada-ENG/
Prado2020ItataPaisRoseLower acid, savory rose.AC11/6/21https://en.vinaprado.com/
Prado2019SurcadorItataMoscatelWhiteMoscatel de Alejandria – some fizz, light, fresh, minerally, salinic.AC11/6/21https://en.vinaprado.com/
Prado2021Aviador del ItataItataPaisRed150 year old vines. 5 months in Rauli Wood containers. Strawberries, mid-low acid. Salinic. More tannic structure than most Pais.AC11/6/21https://en.vinaprado.com/
Primavento2017SamakElquiMalbecRed89Located in Diaguitas, a village named after the local indigenous people, outside of Vicuña. Samak means “creator” in the Diaguita language. Organic. At 1050 meters elevation. They make about 600 bottles. Aged in French oak. About 40% new. 95% Malbec, 3% Carignan, 2% Petit Verdot. Reticent nose, but there’s dark plummy fruit, some sweet oak and touch of meatiness and tobacco. The palate is soft and creamy, but there’s a nice acidic backbone giving it some structure along with dark fruit. The nearly 15% alcohol gives it a medium-full feel, but without heat.AC3/18/22https://primavento.com/
Primus2014The BlendColchaguaBlendRed8840% CS, 25/25 Carmenere/Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot with tiny bit of Cabernet Franc. Modern ripe cassis, touch of oak and heat. AC1/7/18https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Primus2015ColchaguaBlendRed89Cabernet, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc. Gripping chalky tannins, ripe dark fruit, some oak notes. Still hollow mid palate. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Primus2016ColchaguaCarmenereRed87Like Ritual, also owned by Veramonte. Modern Carmenere without the green peppercorn notes. Fruity with some oak and heat. AC1/7/18https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Primus2017ColchaguaCarmenereRed88Full. Chalky tannins. Green pepper. Dark fruit. Middle of the road Carmenere. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Primus2015The BlendColchaguaMerlot, syrah, carmenere, cabernet s.Red93Very powerful and robust. Oak with a hint of vanilla. Leather notes (in a good way) with plum and blackberry on the finish.CS3/13/20https://primuswines.cl/en/wines/
Puertas2016Culenar Reserva EspecialCuricoSangioveseRed88Ripe, zest, floral, vanilla, mint, herbaceous. A bit oaky. Round. Tastes like a lower end modern Italian wine. AC11/15/17https://vinedospuertas.cl/
Puertas2015Aguanegra Gran ReservaCuricoCabernet FrancRed93Earthy aroma. Mix of red and dark fruits on the nose. Baking spices from the barrel with a peppery finish.CS10/14/19https://vinedospuertas.cl/
Puertas2016Lujuria Reserva de BarricasCuricoChardonnay, viognierWhite87Balance between yellow apple and pear. Hint of citrus. Medium acidity and a tone of minerality.CS10/14/19https://vinedospuertas.cl/
Puertas2011Murmullo Reserva Especial BarricasCuricoSyrahRed88French barrels. Full bodied and powerful. Forest floor with black cherry notes. Wiff of smoke.CS10/14/19https://vinedospuertas.cl/
Quebrada de Macul2012PenalolenColchaguaCarmenereRed90No typical green notes. Dark fruit. More elegant than most. Medium acidity. The winemaker is French and has more of a Bordeaux like feel. AC4/26/18https://www.domusaurea.cl/
Quebrada de Macul1998Stella AureaMaipoCabernet S.Red88This was the 2nd or 3rd vintage from this producer. This is the second wine of Quebrada de Macul Domus Aurea. Surprisingly, I thought this wine was older than the 82 Concha Y Toro Casillero del Diablo. The fruit was more stewed and dry with less acidity. A little heat. (The 82 was 12% alcohol while this is 14.9%). It's also more overtly oaked so that might be why there's less fruit showing. And yet not a lot of tertiary notes other than dried fruit. Someone told me that Domus Aurea can handle the high alcohol style of the wine but the Stella doesn't always have enough fruit.AC4/9/22https://www.domusaurea.cl/
Quintay2018ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite89Fresh but a sweeter Sauvignon Blanc than most. Still a solid white for seafood. AC8/4/19http://quintay.com/en/
Ramirana2015TrinidadMaipoBlendRed89Blend of Syrah, Cabernet S., and Carmenere. Reticent nose. Herbal. Big dark fruit palate, creamy, but a little hot. AC4/26/19http://www.ramirana.com/en/
Ranquilhue2021Brut Nature Traditional MethodMaulePaisSparkling88shy nose, touch of puff pastry. Dry, low acid. Lots of bubbles.AC4/22/23https://vinaranquilhue.cl/
Ranquilhue2021ColchaguaPetit VerdotRed90Green, leafy savory nose. Low acid. Silky smooth entry, licorice, but dark tannic back end.AC4/22/23https://vinaranquilhue.cl/
Ravelo y Rabelo2018PihuchenColchaguaPaisRedFrom Cristian Ravelo and Vicente Rabelo with the help of winemaker Jose Miguel Sotomayor from Wildmakers. Based in Pihuchen, Colchagua.Rare to find Pais in Colchagua other than in local homemade chicha and pipeno. This 100% Pais is fuller and more potent than most, but retains its freshness. Made in tinajas and spends time in used French oak.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo2020SeikuMauleNebbioloRed100% Nebbiolo. Fermented in tinajas. Red fruit. Taste the clay from the tinajas. Also some floral and herbal notes. Structured with high tannins and acid, but still not heavy, which makes this Nebbiolo the closest in quality and style to Piedmont Nebbiolo while retaining its own style. Other Chilean Nebbiolos are blended with darker varietals and made to taste rather generic Chilean to help Chileans approach the grape, but there’s very little out there.AC11/6/21https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo2020SeikuMauleNebbioloRed88Some natural wine characteristics that come from native yeasts. Tastes like a low intervention wine from Maule or Itata. Nothing off though. More oxidative, a lot less acid than the Italian Nebbiolos. Darker fruit. Riper fruit. Spice. Quite smooth at this stage with a touch of alcohol at the back end. When I first tasted this a couple of years, it was brighter and more tannic but with a fairly light body, which gave it more Nebbiolo characteristics but now it's hard to tell it's Nebbiolo except a bit from the lighter color and body. I also had the 2021 of this and it was more like how the 2020 is now., but I prefer how this was 2 years agoAC11/19/23https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo2018Bellaco Champenoise NaturLeydaBlendSparkling40 Chardonnay/60 Pinot Noir. Traditional Method. Savory and doughy. AC10/1/22https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo ? Piluchen Clon 5LeydaSauvignon BlancWhiteLots of pyrazine notes, dark green pepper. Savory and acidic.AC10/1/22https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo?Piluchen Clon 1LeydaSauvignon BlancWhiteAlso green like Clon-5 but a lighter green. Feels lighter at first, but on the back-end there’s more structure-tannins.AC10/1/22https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo?Piluchen MassalColchaguaSauvignon BlancOrange3 months skin contact. Savory nose, dried fruit, some vegetal notes. Not full-on orange wine for me. More like a fuller white. Maybe it’s because Sauvignon Blanc can also have a vegetal side whether there’s skin contact or not.AC10/1/22https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
Ravelo y Rabelo2021SeikuColchaguaNebbioloRedunfiltered, can see sediment. Very natural. Tannic and fuller than I remember the 2020. Less Nebbiolo like too except the color and tannins. Feels like it will need some time to come togther.AC10/1/22https://www.instagram.com/vinosraveloyrabelo/?hl=en
RE2016ChardonoirCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirBlend88It's using the Champagne method of mixing Chardonnay (60) and Pinot Noir (40) but it's not a sparkling wine. Overall, I found it strange. In some ways, it was like a generic white wine, but it had a plummy end. Interesting, but not appealing.AC10/11/19https://bodegasre.cl/
RE2015PinotelCasablancaPinot Noir, MoscatelRosé86Light color even for a rose. Almost carbonated feel. Strawberry tart fruit, but too sweet and candy like. AC11/3/18https://bodegasre.cl/
RE2019PinotelCasablancaPinot Noir, MoscatelRosé89This is mostly a rosé of Pinot Noir with a bit of Moscatel Rosada (Pastilla) that has some skin contact. Second time having this wine, but not the same vintage. I liked it a lot better this time around and a lot has to do with the pairing. It deserves to be drunk cold with some seafood or perhaps salty charcuterie in the summer. Pale pink color. It’s a very tangy and fresh wine. There’s a touch of carbonation. There’s also a lot of minerality giving it some salinity on the nose and palate. You get some sour red fruit and floral notes too. The nose was a bit closed, but there’s some complexity there.AC12/22/21https://bodegasre.cl/
RE2015SyranoirCasablancaSyrah, Pinot NoirRed87Strange blend of 88% Syrah and 12% Pinot Noir. Strange funky nose. Floral and barnyard. Not sure most people will like the nose. Palate nice mix of red and dark berries. AC8/30/19https://bodegasre.cl/
RE2015DobleMauleCarignan, GrenacheRed88Herbal nose. Fresh and light. But not much midpalate. AC7/26/19https://bodegasre.cl/
RE2016ChardonnoirCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirBlend90A very particular blend. Chardonnay with Pinot Noir. Kind of a cross between green apple and pear with raspberry and red cherry. Balanced with major citrus notes and barrel age.CS10/11/19http://bodegasre.cl/
RE2013RenobleCasablancaSauvignon BlancDessert91Grapes from the El Ensueño vineyard near the coast which gets a lot of fog cover to add the needed moisture for the noble rot to develop. Fermentation in barrel took over a year with another year aging in barrel. Color is darker than the Sauternes which is 15 years older; looks more aged. Just as fruity but more acidic than the Sauternes. Touch nutty with ginger. 15% alcohol but don't feel it. Despite the color, it should continue to age and evolve with its acidity.AC9/10/23https://www.bodegasre.cl/
Reta2020Quebrada ChalingaLimariPinot NoirRed93This comes from Marcelo Retamal, who spent 25 years as winemaker of De Martino and is also the head winemaker for Viñedos de Alcohuaz in the Elqui Valley. The vines are located 14 km from the ocean in Talinay on granite and limestone soil. They’re Dijon 115 clones planted in 2006. 50% whole cluster. Aged in neutral oak for 16 months. The nose starts off with minerality and salinity. Then it becomes floral with dark red berry fruit and blood orange. The palate has medium-light bodied feel despite the light transparent color. There’s ripe dark red fruit and medium acid plus a soy sauce and chalky component and a tiny bit of spice. This is a more substantial and riper Pinot compared to most Chilean Pinots, but it’s still not at the level of most California Pinots in terms of alcohol and ripeness. It’s also more ocean influenced than say earthier but equally substantial Burgundies. 93+AC12/9/22https://www.instagram.com/retadechile/?hl=en
Ricardo Escandón2021GüeyuColchaguaTempranilloRed90100% Tempranillo. Destemmed and fermented in bins with daily punch downs. Unfiltered. 12 months in French oak barrels. No indication of how much was new oak. 600 bottles made. The nose actually takes me to Bordeaux more than Rioja or Chile, so I guess it’s the French oak. On the nose, there’s vanilla, spice, and cedar. The palate is juicy, sour plums with some spice on the backend. Higher acid than most commercial Chilean Bordeaux blend, average Rioja and many Bordeaux these days. Medium-bodied. Balanced overall although some may prefer more ripeness, roudness and body from their Tempranillo if they like Ribera del Duero or Napa reds, but I like that you get the oak notes of these wines, but in a lighter, fresher package on the palate.AC11/20/24https://www.instagram.com/escand0n/
Richards?Oña SolMauleSauvignon BlancWhite92Darker medium-light golden color. Also lots of salty minerality on the nose and palate. Fruity up front. A little residual sugar. Maybe some oak but not dominant. Not a huge nose. Medium+ body. Round. Alcohol in check. Medium+ acid. Not at all like Sauvignon Blanc. More body, no pyrazine, some oak …only the acidity reflects the variety.
AC10/26/24https://www.instagram.com/vinarichardsw/
Ritual2016CasablancaChardonnayWhite89Less fragrant than the Sauvignon Blanc, fruitier, but still stays crisp.AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Ritual2016CasablancaMerlotRed90Floral. Easy drinking. Fresh. Pleasant. You don't get many Merlot from Casablanca. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Ritual2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed89+Feels more like a Santa Rita Hills California Pinot, dominated by darker berry fruits with some spice and chocolate. Low acid. Lots of stuffing. May get better. The consultant at the time before it was sold to a Spanish Sherry company Gonzalez Byass was Paul Hobbs, a famous Napa winemaker. The previous owners are the owners of Quintessa in Napa. AC1/7/18https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Ritual2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed92Better this time. Similar modern style but just more integrated and expressive. Minerality. Tangy berry. Menthol. Some cola. AC3/9/18https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Ritual2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed87I have had mixed experiences with Ritual Pinot from Veramonte. This is the first winery on your right when exit the tunnel into the Casablanca Valley. Hence, it is further inland and tends to produce more modern Santa Barbara style California Pinot. That along with the previous owners, who were the owneres during this vintage, being the same owners as Quintessa in California probably keeps it in this style although they are actually Chilean. The ex-owner was recently in trouble because he was caught in the university scandals in the US for paying his daughter's way into USC. The new owners are from Spain where they make sherry. Anyway, I'd be curious to try this wine under the new owners. Tonight, this wine had some Pinot characteristics, but more on the dark fruit side with some oak, low-acid, heat and just a heavy feel.AC10/11/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Ritual2016CasablancaPinot NoirRed88Dark Pinot, lacking acidity. Some complexity from the oak aging. Still not showing a lot, but has some packed fruit in there to display. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Ritual2016CasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite91Citrus, salinity, minerality, crisp. Perfect for oysters. Ritual is a Casablanca line of Vina Veramonte. AC1/7/18https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Ritual2016CasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite90Typical Sauvignon Blanc from Casablanca. Shouldn't disapoint. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Ritual2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed89Nearly a violet color, dark. Concentrated and balanced. Earthy characteristic with pepper and smoke. Slight minerality on the finish.CS10/11/19https://www.ritualwines.com/
Ritual2018CasablancaChardonnayWhite89Granite soil. Fermented and aged in 20% concrete egg, 20% new oak, 60% neutral oak. You get the oak on the nose, but less so on the palate which is light and fresh, but simpler than some of the others.AC11/12/21https://www.ritualwines.cl/home
Riveras del Chillan2017Bacot Vista BellaItataMalbecRed90100+ year old vines. Dry-farmed. Takes 20-30 minutes to open up. Starts off a little herbal and spicy, but then it’s all about the fruit: Dark and red fruits with good acidity that verge on floral. Medium-bodied, but feels quite light on the palate with soft tannins. Although it spent 20 months in French and American oak, the oak is used oak and doesn’t have much influence on the flavor profile. Only around 6,000 bottles made.AC10/24/21https://www.facebook.com/RiverasDelChillan/
Robba & Rossi2016Isla de MaipoPrimitivoRed88Modern style. Ripe and fruity. Not too far off from California Zin. AC11/25/18https://twitter.com/robbarossiwines?lang=en
Robba & Rossi2016Isla de MaipoPrimitivoRed88Cinammon, spicy nose. Red fruit. Medium acidity. Savoury back end. Simple palate. AC4/14/19https://twitter.com/robbarossiwines?lang=en
Robba & Rossi2016Isla de MaipoSangioveseRed88Balsamic nose. Tannic. Low acid compared to its Italian counterparts. Dark. Spicey oak. AC11/25/18https://twitter.com/robbarossiwines?lang=en
Robba & Rossi2016Isla de MaipoSangioveseRed89Savoury herbal nose, tangy simple palate. AC4/14/19https://twitter.com/robbarossiwines?lang=en
Robba & Rossi2017Isla de MaipoSangioveseRed90Spent 20 months in barrels. More vibrant and spicy than the 2016. AC4/14/19https://twitter.com/robbarossiwines?lang=en
Roberto Henriquez2020Super EstrellaItataCorinto (Chasselas) White91100% Corinto (Chasselas). Granitic soils. Left on skins for some time. 70-year-old vines. Cloudy, darker because of the extra time in skins and probably no filtering but not quite an orange wine. Nose: Savory minerality, oyster shell and a touch of white flowers and herbs. Palate: Good acidity and fruit, but also savory. Tiny bit of fiz at first but it fades, but it does say "chicha de tu madre" on the label and chicha is often fizzy. Overall, different than the average Chasselas I had in Switzerland. More complex, but can still improve.AC8/15/21http://robertohenriquez.com/web/eng/wines/
Roberto Henriquez 2019Santa Cruz de CoyaBio-Bio, Secano InteriorPaisRed90Only 2,800 bottles made. From 200 year old bush vines over granite and volcanic soil. Minimal intervention. No pesticides or herbicides in the vineyard. No treatments or filtering in the cellar except a bit of sulfur at bottling. The nose has earthy, floral and minty components. The palate has red berry fruit with juicy acidity and some savory notes. Light-bodied. Quite elegant for a Pais, closer to Burgundy or Beaujolais in style rather than traditional country Pipeno. Light and juicy.AC8/25/20http://robertohenriquez.com/web/eng/wines/
Roberto Henriquez 2022Molino del CiegoItataSemillonWhite91100% organic Semillon from 90 year old vines. Destemmed. Skin-contact fermentation. Nose has that orange wine leafy, spice but also fruit and floral notes while the palate is less obviously skin-contact and more fruit driven with plenty of acidity but with a streak savory notes. The color was not full-orange but darker than any normal white.AC5/21/23http://robertohenriquez.com/web/eng/wines/
Rogue Vine2018Macho AncianoItataMalbecRedFrom old-vine Malbec planted in 1920. Not at all like typical Mendozan Malbec. No oak that I can detect. Light-bodied. Super-fresh. Even more acidic and lighter than most Chilean Malbec, but I don’t get the floral notes I often like.AC3/29/23https://www.facebook.com/leonardoerazovinos/?ref=page_internal
Rogue Vines2015Grand ItataCinsaultRed9090% Cinsault, 10% Pais. Made from 100-300+ year old wil growing hill bush vines. Dry farmed natural wine. Pale color. Animal nose, leather and barnyard, meaty with some red fruit and minerality. Palate strawberry spice with a streak of sea salt. Medium acid. Light texture. Only around 458 cases made. Probably not everyone's cup of tea, sort of a dirty terroir driven wine.AC5/18/19roguevine@gmail.com
Roja2018El MaulinoMauleCarignan BlendRed9350% Carignan, 35% Syrah, 15% Garnacha 75 year old vines. Nose of bright red fruit, spice and Provencal herbal notes reminding me of the Rhone Valley. The palate with fresh red fruit. Powerful. 14.5% alcohol gives it volume but still not heat. Drinking it next to a Chianti Riserva, they compare similarly in terms of flavor profile but this is actually more intense, potent and structured. More tannins. More profound.AC7/8/22
Romero2018Sauvignon SolCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite90Super clear color. Typical notes on the nose with some green pepper, jalapeño. But the palate is fuller, rounder with less acid. More like Chardonnay on the palate but Sauvingon Blanc on the nose.AC11/19/23https://casaromerowines.cl/
Rucahue2016Cayetano Gran ReservaItataCabernet FrancRed90Medium intensity nose of dark and red berries with chocolate, herbal and floral notes. The palate is quite juicy on the attack with good acidity veering towards the red fruit side at first but getting darker with food. Otherwise, a bit of a generic Chilean Bordeaux blend. No hard edges. This definitely has oak influence (12 months in French oak), but it’s well integrated. Francois Massoc of Calyptra and Clos des Fous has been one of their consultants, so you can expect plenty of high-quality oak in the wine while still having some French restraint. Overall, it’s a solid wine. You don’t normally find Cabernet Franc in Itata, which is better known for their Cinsault and Pais.AC9/7/20https://www.rucahue.cl/?lang=en
Rukumilla2012Golden BreastMaipoBlendRed91Can get on sale for around 36 bucks. Only 1,600 bottles made. Small family run winery in Talagante. Blend of Cab S., Cab F., Malbec and Syrah. Nice texture and yummy fruit. Fruity and fresh. AC8/13/19https://rukumilla.com/
Rukumilla2012Golden BreastMaipoCab blendRed91A more hedonistic fruit driven wine with also some eggnog like spice. Reminds me of Southern Italy. Still fresh. Not super complex, but it's a yummy wine. Very small production family run winery in Lonquen. Only around 1,600 bottles made. AC8/31/18https://rukumilla.com/
Sainsbury’s1989LontueSauvignon BlancWhiteN/ASainsbury is a UK store and they still produce this wine for 6 pounds although it’s now sourced from Casablanca. It has a sweet oxidized nose (sherry/apple cider notes), but surprisingly good acid and still alive on the palate. The color is more golden and dark (from aging?) compared to most Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.AC9/3/21https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/
Saint Eugene2022Claudio Ferrari Gran ReservaValle CentralCarignanRed90served too warm. Somewhat green, Chilean nose which you get more with Cab and Carmenere. Some floral. Good acid and fruit on the palate though. Warm but alcohol kept in check.AC12/7/24https://www.facebook.com/sainteugenewine/?locale=es_LA
Saint Eugene2021Joven Eugenia Cuvee de PatronValle CentralBlendRed90Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Carmenere. The nose is quite lovely at the moment with ripe fruit, floral notes and mild oak notes. The palate is a bit of green notes with vanilla but maintains its freshness. Some dried fruit notes but it's ok at this stage, but tastes a little older. Soft tannins.AC12/7/24https://www.facebook.com/sainteugenewine/?locale=es_LA
Salamanca2019Cerros de Cuncumén ChoapaPedro JimenezWhite89floral and tropical nose and the attack carries an almost sweet melon side but it finishes with lots of citrus acidity and mintiness.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/vina_salamanca/
Salamanca2020ChoapaMerlotRed89highest elevation vineyard in Choapa. It even snows. kind of a meaty and floral nose, light color than most and more red fruit and high acid than most. Ripe cherry, red plum. Soft tannins. Interesting potential from this terroir at high elevation to get ripeness but with high acid cool-climate aspects too.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/vina_salamanca/
San Esteban2016In Situ Signature Spaghetti BlendAconcaguaCabernet S.,SangioveseRed8960% Cabernet S. and 40% Sangiovese. 9856 bottles made. Nice red berry and savoury herbs on the nose. Palate is easy drinking red fruit, medium acid. Rather simple but balanced. Not as acidic as most Italian wines despite the name. AC6/21/19https://www.vse.cl/en/index.php
San Luis2020Vinos de Patio NuyunItataCinsaultRed90Nose is earthy and floral. Palate all about bright red fruit. More tannic structure than most Cinsault. Medium acid. Easy drinking overall.AC4/22/23http://xn--viasanluis-u9a.cl/
San Luis2019QuelhueItataSemillonWhite90shy, white floral nose with fresh fruity palate, médium round body. Good acid.AC4/22/23http://xn--viasanluis-u9a.cl/
San Pedro2015SideralCachapoalCabernet S.Red92Ripe dark Cabernet with spice and tobacco. Coffee. Not obviously Chilean greennotes. Could be a ripe modern Bordeaux or restrained California wine. Medium-low acid. Think Paul Hobbs consults here. Faded some the second day, so I question its ageability. There's another wine that's a step from this one called Sideral Altair, so don't confuse them.AC10/5/18http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro20151865MaipoCabernet S.Red89Dark red fruit, ripe and fresh. Herbs, spice, vanilla, chocolate. Med acidity. Balanced.AC12/24/17http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2011Tierras MoradasMauleCarmenereRed90Nice dark fruit nose. Herbs. Soft tannins. Chocolate notes.AC9/3/15http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2016Castillo de Molina ReservaMauleSyrahRed88Nose dark red berry fruit, forest floor, smoke. Palate has dark berry fruit, medium bodied, no hard edges, camphor, black pepper and other spices. Don't normally find a 100% Syrah from Maule. AC3/22/20http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2016Reserva Castillo de MolinaRapelCabernet S.Red88Reticent nose. Savoury herbs, minerality. Fruit forward with medium acid, menthol, vanilla, green pepper. AC10/26/18http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2022Gran Reserva Castillo de MolinaCasablancaPinot NoirRed84Screw cap. San Pedro has recently started labeling their Castillo de Molina line Gran Reserva instead of Reserva, which doesn't mean much in Chile. It's still the same wine although I think they used to source this Pinot from Curico and now it says Casablana. This is along the lines of the Casillero del Diablo. It's a generic wine, more for those who like Merlot and Cabernet S. rather than Pinot. It's a bit dark for a Pinot. The nose is mostly oak and a bit of dark fruit. The palate is medium-low acid with dark fruit and sweet oak notes. The only thing Pinot about it is its medium-light body and softer feel, but even Cabernet S. at this level can also be quite soft. Maybe if it was labeled Merlot, I'd give it an extra point, but since I'm expecting a Pinot, and I'm getting something unrecognizable as Pinot, I'm not. It's not out of balance or bad, it's just boring and not varietally correct. AC6/20/24http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2018Kankana del Elqui ElquiSyrahRed93100% Syrah. Immediately a big whiff of ripe dark red berry fruit but it turns to a savory meaty and olive nose, with a little pepper. The palate is super silky with medium acid with both fruity and savory notes. Soft tannins. Classic Syrah. May not please those who like really modern, ripe Syrah since it's the savory notes that dominate.AC6/27/22https://sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2014Las Encinas ReservaCentral ValleySemillonWhite97Amazed when found. Acidic, zesty, cheap price. Slightly saline with citrus notes. Excellent alternative to more popular white wines. Varietally correct. CS2/9/20http://www.sanpedro.cl/en/
San Pedro2020Rapel, MauleCarmenereRed87fruity and soft, slightly high alcohol. Some chocolatey and vanilla oak notes. Medium acid and body. Lacks intensity and length but pleasant for the price.AC1/6/24https://vsptwinegroup.com/en/portafolio/san-pedro/
San Pedro 2018Tayu 1865MallecoPinot NoirRed92The nose is tight but complex with a bit of wet earth, ripe and bright red fruit, a little smokiness and coffee, and a touch of floral notes. The palate has sour cherry and a grapefruit citrus note along with a long salinic minerality on the finish. Starts off rather light but gains weight with time. It’s not a fruit driven Pinot. It’s mostly about the interplay of sour and salty notes mixed in with other complexities. Only parts of the wine are aged in used oak barrels while most is aged in cement tanks. This wine claims to be the first Mapuche Pinot Noir because this is a project Vina San Pedro does in collaboration with the indigenous Mapuche community in Buchahueico. The Mapuche community was hesitant to accept San Pedro’s offer at first, but San Pedro helped to finance the project and teach the people how to tend the vineyards in order to produce this wine, which they hope will be a source of income and pride for the Mapuche community.AC7/21/20http://tayu-1865.com/
Sanchez de Loria2020OidorAconcaguaCabernet S.Red88fairly standard reserva level Chilean Cabernet. Some pyrazine with dark ripe fruit but still remains relatively fresh along with spice and vanilla. Medium-bodied. Average length.AC3/25/23https://sanchezdeloria.cl/
Sanroke2018Burdeo Centenario ReservaBio-BioMalbecRed90160 year old vines. 100% Malbec. Dry-farmed. Spends 1+ year in used oak. Quite high acid for a Malbec with lots of purple fruit, violet, some spice with some moderate tannic structure. Has potential to age.AC10/2/21https://sanroke.cl/
Santa Alicia2011Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red87Dark, spicy, a little overdone like stewed plums. Something bitter. AC1/7/15http://www.santa-alicia.cl/en
Santa Alicia2017MillantuMaipoBlendRed90Coffee oak nose. Plenty of soft tannins. Mixed big red and dark fruit. Holds it together. AC8/18/19http://www.santa-alicia.cl/en
Santa Alicia2011MillantuMaipoCabernet BlendRed89Balanced, red fruit, more in a classic, light style. AC9/3/15http://www.santa-alicia.cl/en
Santa Alicia2017MaipoCarmenereRed88Owned also by Indomita. Modern style, dark fruit dominating with some mint/eucalyptus. AC7/4/19http://www.santa-alicia.cl/en
Santa Ana2017Paraiso PortezueloItataCarignanRed88Nice balanced daily drinker. Fruit forward with plum and blackberry notes.CS9/1/19https://www.facebook.com/itataparaiso/
Santa Carolina2017Estrella de Oro ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red 88Dark ripe nose with tobacco. Some wood. Medium acidity. Not much midpalate transition. Lacks elegant feel.AC10/5/19https://santacarolina.cl/en/
Santa Carolina2013Specialties Cool Mountain CuricoMalbec blendRed8785% Malbec with Cab S. and Cab Franc. Earthy herby savory nose. Dark red fruit. Ok acidity. A little oaky with some heat. OK overall. Definitely not a typical Argentinian Malbec. Chilean Malbecs tend to be lighter and more subtle in style. This is the case here, but this one is just rather boring. AC5/1/18https://santacarolina.cl/en/
Santa Carolina2015Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red86Decent for the price. Simple. Good patio red for a BBQ.CS12/12/16https://santacarolina.cl/en/
Santa CarolinaNVChampagne Demi-SecChileBlendSparkling(Made between 1985-1988) Of course, super-mature dark color and oxidized, sherry-like nose. It had a weird plastic cork which others said they could smell in the wine, but I didn't think it was obvious. The good thing is the wine is still alive. A tiny bit of effervescence but the bubbles are almost completely gone but there's still some acidity, fruit and sugar. Not a great wine, but an educational experience. This cost 280 pesos in the 80's which is still only about 2800 pesos today or less than $5.AC4/9/22https://santacarolina.cl/
Santa Catalina2020Don Lorenzo Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red88fairly standard Maipo Cab nose but a but closed. The palate is fruit driven but dark and red fruit with good acid with oaky chocolatey notes, medium + acid. Still some tannins that would require food.AC4/6/24http://www.santacatalina.cl/
Santa Ema2019Gran ReservaLeydaSauvignon BlancWhite90Typical crisp, clean and smooth Chilean Sauvignon Blanc with a little salinity and fresh fruit. Don’t get the herbal notes on this at the moment though. I’d be happy with his any day of the week with any seafood dish.2nd Day: more savory herbal notes emerge.
AC9/18/20https://www.santaema.cl/
Santa Ema2015Gran ReservaMaipoMerlotRed89Creamy, chocolate, vanilla, licorice, dark fruitAC8/26/17https://santaema.cl/eng/wines-2/
Santa Ema2018Gran ReservaCasablancaChardonnayWhite92Slightly more buttery than expected from malolactic fermentation. Heavy vanilla and oak notes with honey while holding slighty tropical. CS1/11/20https://santaema.cl/eng/wines-2/
Santa Ema2022Select TerroirMaipoSauvignon BlancWhite86low intense nose. Herbal, raw green pepper and citrusy on the nose. Lots of citrusy tang on the palate, salinic minerality but rather lacking in the mid-palate and length.AC1/21/23https://www.santaema.cl/en/?active=S
Santa Ema2019AmplusMaipoMarselanRed90A medium-sized but fairly common label in Chile, Santa Ema has been around since the early 20th century and was started by an Italian immigrant whose family still controls the winery. 100% Marselan. Aged 14 months in French oak barrels (35% new). The nose shows a lot of sweet baking spices, mocha mixed with some savory spice notes and ripe dark berry fruit. The palate leans more towards red fruit, is medium bodied and round with no hard edges. Nose reminds me more of a modern Cab blend while the color and texture remind me more of Grenache. Modern, but there’s good acidity.AC6/29/23https://www.santaema.cl/en/?active=S
Santa Emiliana2019Central ValleySauvignon BlancWhite86A Concha y Toro label. A little more international in style with a little more volume, a touch of oak and less herbaceous notes. There's still some citrus and spice notes on the back-end, but the mid-palate is lacking. Restaurant half-bottle. Full bottle sells for less than $5 in the supermarket.AC9/18/21https://conchaytoro.com/
Santa Monica1995ReservaRapelRieslingWhite89Dark gold color, showing its age, but still shiny not dull, so definitely not dead on appearance. The nose reminds me a lot of old German Rieslings I’ve had. Oxidative but not as much as I was expecting. There are more oxidative notes on the palate than the nose. The nose still shows quite a bit of fruit, honey and a touch of petrol. The palate also starts fruity and finishes with some medium+ acid, minerality and spicy, slightly bitter oxidative notes. Medium body. Dry. A bit short and a lot less minerality than better German Rieslings, but otherwise, this is a steal for those who like aged Riesling at only $4. AC8/19/24https://www.santamonica.cl/
Santa Monica1999ReservaRapelSemillonWhite85Founded in 1976 by Emilio De Solminhac and named after his wife Monica. I don’t like this as much as the 1995 Riesling, which was better equipped to age with more natural sugar and acid. Here the aromatics are rather mute. The acid is low. Medium-body. Oxidative nutty notes. Toasty spicy notes. Not much fruit. Touch of honey and white flowers. Not dead. Color is not as dark as the Riesling and still shiny, but it’s something more for sherry lovers at this point.AC8/22/24https://www.santamonica.cl/
Santa Rita2018Casa RealColchaguaCarmenereRed89Nose of savoury herbs, not too green like some. Palate quite elegant with good acidity for a Carmenere. Lacks complexity and length. AC1/10/20https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2016Medalla Real Gran ReservaLeydaPinot NoirRed89Light floral red fruit. Touch of oak. AC8/17/19https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2014Medalla RealLeydaPinot NoirRed88Modern take. Darker, spice, chocolate, riper, some citrus to keep it fresh. More California than Burgundy.AC10/26/17https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2000Medalla RealMaipoCabernet SauvignonRed87dried fruit, chicken broth powder, mushroom - palate still a bit modern with oak, vanilla, smooth - a touch of camphor, dark fruit, but fruit fading some. 2000 Santa Rita Medalla Real Reserva Especial Maipo - 8 months in American oak. People thought this was older given the evolution. AC8/28/24https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2015Triple CMaipoBlendRed912015 Santa Rita Triple C Maipo (92 JS, WS, 91 V) A blend of Cabernet Franc (65%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) and Carménère (5%). 100% New French Oak aging. About 30 minutes of decanting. The nose shows ripe red berry fruits with some leafy and savory herbal notes with a touch of mint. However, the herbal notes are not dominating like some Chilean wines. They’re in the background. The palate is a bit heady at first but the alcohol settles in with big dark berry fruit and ripe raspberry and some creamy vanilla and cocoa in the end. It’s quite typical of modern Chilean Bordeaux blends and Santa Rita, which is one of the most common red producers you find in Chilean restaurants. However, this is a notch up in intensity. Yet, it manages to keep the alcohol and oak integrated. It’s pricier though at 20,000 CLP on sale, which makes it properly priced internationally but expensive in the Chilean market. I also don’t really feel the Cabernet Franc stands out enough despite being 65% of the blend. AC6/25/20https://santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2013Casa RealMaipoCabernet S.Red86Mute nose, ok acidity, monolithic fruit, vanilla oak. modern and genericAC10/14/17https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2018?Medalla Real ReservaRapelCarmenereRed88Solid Carmenere. No hard edges, balanced. Good acidity for a Carmenere. Fruit forward. Some earthy herby notes, but not too green. A simple but balanced 7 dollar wine that won't clash with many dishes.AC3/20/19https://www.santarita.com/
Santa Rita2020Medalla RealMaipoCabernet S.Red89Classic Chilean Cab. Some savory pyrazine with dark fruit. Dark but fresh fruit on the palate. Easy drinking for now.AC5/22/22https://www.santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2021120 Tres MedallasCentralCabernet S.Red81Tastes like a diluted version of a generic Cabernet. No nose and short palate. Not much of anything although nothing technically wrong with it.AC9/18/22https://www.santarita.com/
Santa Rita2018Casa RealColchaguaCarmenereRed88Fruity carmenere. Red and black fruit aromas with a wiff of olive. Pepper and all spice from barrels and vanilla.CS1/10/20https://santarita.com/en/
Santa Rita2002Floresta Apalta EstateColchaguaCabernet S.RedStill quite youthful and primary at this stage. Oak well integrated. No sense of typical Chilean pyrazine though. Just a touch of dry fruit and tobacco, and the elegance that comes with age, but still quite primary. Overall, this is as good as some classified growth Bordeaux.AC3/29/23https://santarita.com/en/
Santiago Station2015Devil's BackCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red85Decent Cabernet with a fruit forward nose. Okay for $5 price range and a good option for the limited budget.CS8/5/16N/A
Santiago Station2015Devil's BackCentral ValleySauvignon BlancWhite93Excellent budget wine for $5. Grassy notes with decent acidity. A perfect every day drinker for limited income.
CS8/5/16N/A
Santo Crispino2018Gran ReservaMaipoBlendRed9070% Cabernet Franc, 15% of Carmenere and Syrah each. Only 3,300 bottles made. Small family who makes their wine intheir front yard, so not something you'll find outside of Chile or in stores outside of wine tasting fairs. I like the nose-dark fruit, herbal and vegetal notes, but not green pepper notes like many Chilean wines. Dark berry fruit. minerality. Back end acid. Light tannins. Not a wine to age, but pleasant wine to drink now.AC9/26/19N/A
Schwaderer2017Itata, CasablancaPinot NoirRed88Earthy, soil. Floral. Darker on the palate, spice. Some heat and tannins.AC4/14/19https://en.schwadererwines.com/
Schwaderer2017MauleCarignanRed89Baking spice. Herbs. Savoury. Less acid than most.AC4/14/19https://en.schwadererwines.com/
Schwaderer2017MauleMalbecRed90Floral. Light. Dark red fruit. Easy drinking and light for a Malbec.AC4/14/19https://en.schwadererwines.com/
Schwaderer2017MaulePetit VerdotRed90Not to be confused with Schwaderer-Garcia who have now changed their name to PS Garcia. Sweet dark fruit. Well structured.AC4/14/19https://en.schwadererwines.com/
Schwaderer2021LeydaSauvignon Blanc - Pedro JimenezWhite9075% Sauvignon Blanc. 25% Pedro Jimenez. Mild asparagus, citrus. Medium+ acid. Spice. A little more body than just a straight Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.AC4/22/23https://www.schwadererwines.com/en/home-eng/
Schwaderer2022ColchaguaGrenacheRed88No barrels. Cloves. Light red berry fruit. Lacking mid-palate.AC4/22/23https://www.schwadererwines.com/en/home-eng/
Schwaderer2020Itata CostaChardonnayWhite9117 months in barrels with malolactic. Sourced from Kingston’s vineyard in Itata. Tropical with some banana. Sort of a pina colada on the palate. Ripe round. Medium-low acid, but doesn’t feel like it lacks freshness and the malolactic doesn’t make it a butter-bomb like some.AC4/22/23https://www.schwadererwines.com/en/home-eng/
Schwaderer2020Itata CostaChardonnayWhite90Fermented and kept for 17 months in used (3rd & 4th use) French oak barrels with 100% malolactic. Sourced from Kingston’s vineyard in Itata. About $16-20 in Chile. Similar to the previous time I tasted this but a little more subdued. Probably too cold. I gave it 91 a month ago. Said it was sort of like piña colada with tropical notes, oak influence and a round creamy body. Yet it doesn’t lack freshness despite not having overt acidity.AC5/21/23https://www.schwadererwines.com/en/home-eng/
SchwadererNVBrut Metodo TradicionalMauleSemillonSparkling89Only 4,730 bottles were made, but it costs only $10. Grapes were sourced from San Javier. 100% Semillon from 100+ year old vines. They also make a sparkling rosé from Pais, again emphasizing the traditional varieties of Chile. This spends 12 months on lees. 11.2 residual sugar. 12.5% alcohol. Less quantity and quality of bubbles than the Gran Lago or an average Champagne. A little less body too. However, like the Gran Lago, it is uniquely influenced by its variety. There's beeswax, honey, white floral and apple notes. Don't get a lot of bready notes, but there's good acidity. Great for the price if you want a dry and unique sparklingAC1/5/24https://www.schwadererwines.com/en/home-eng/
Sena2014AconcaguaCab blendRed95Most elegant Chilean wine I've had, silky yet powerful and complex. Floral, fresh, pure. AC11/25/16http://www.sena.cl/en/index.php
Sideways (Via Wines)2016Rex Pickett Signature SeriesCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Screwtop. Takes 10-15 minutes to open up. The nose shows bright red fruit, a touch of earth and minerality, citrus and some spice and vanilla from the oak. Later some floral and smoky notes emerge. The palate hits you with red cherry fruit and good acidity. However, there’s a creamy silkiness to the back end and also a tinge of nuances from the oak. Overall, there are no hard edges of heat, oak or tannins; It’s well balanced. It’s something to drink now although the acidity will keep it for a few years.AC6/26/20http://sideways-wine.com/
Siegel2015UniqueColchaguaBlendRed90Intense, ripe, rich, structured. Touch of heat, but it fades with food. Blend of CS, Carmenere, Syrah.AC4/26/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2015Unique SelectionColchaguaBlendRed88A big in your face wine, dark, medium acid, some herbs and tobacco. However, there's too much oak and heat at the moment. AC10/11/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2016Los Lingues Single VineyardColchaguaCarmenereRed88Coffee. Rich. But too hot and oaky at the moment. AC4/26/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2017Single Vineyard Los LinguesColchaguaCarmenereRed89Fairly standard Carmenere with big bell pepper, round feel, med-low acid, and a little bit of oak.AC10/11/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2018Gran ReservaColchaguaViognierWhite87Some oak, peach, citrus, slightly oily feel, sweet palate. Touch bitter on the back end.AC2/14/20http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2017Gran ReservaColchaguaCabernet S.Red89Medium intensity. Aromas of oak, herbs, red fruit. Palate has some nutmeg, nice tannins, solid finish.CS10/11/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2017UniqueColchaguaCabernet S., carmenere, syrahRed94Bordeaux blend. I have sampled this wine 3 times over the last year and each time I have ranked it 90+ points. Delicious, concentrated, powerful. Ageworthy with notes of cassis, dark fruit boquet with complex and lingering aftertaste.CS2/14/20http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2015Unique SelectionColchaguaCabernet s., carmenere, syrahRed91Good price point. Barrel aromas of oak and tobacco. Dark forest fruit, cassis, menthol, leather and earthy. Almost a floral aroma. CS10/11/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2017Single Vineyard Los LinguesColchaguaCarmenereRed91Excellent carmenere. Vanilla, barrel spice, plum notes with satisfying acidity. CS2/14/20http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2017Single Vineyard Los LinguesColchaguaCarmenereRed92Oak spice, vanilla, wood, forest fruits. Smoke, cherry pepper on the palate. Slightly herbal, think celery.CS10/11/19http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Siegel2018Gran ReservaColchaguaViognierWhite92I have sampled this twice now. Both ratings 90+ points. Full bodied, classic viognier with a complex bouquet. Slightly tropical, notes of mandarine, mango and pear.CS2/14/20http://www.siegelvinos.com/en/
Sierras de Bellavista2016ColchaguaRieslingWhite91At 1,100 meters above sea level allowing them to plant cool climate grapes like Riesling and Pinot. A project of Camilo Rahmer of Vina Tres Palacios. Nose of quince and flinty minerality. It’s quite Chilean with its savory herbal and spicy citrusy side. The palate keeps the similar complexity of citrus, spice and savory minerality, but it’s not as elegant or integrated as the Josmeyer. I like this wine, but still not finding enough difference between this and good Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.AC1/1/21https://vinasierrasdebellavista.com/
Siete Wines2023ReservaColchaguaSemillonWhite90Half fermentation in stainless steel and half in barrels but it doesn't age in barrels. Medium body. Medium acid. White floral nose. Pleasant Semillon. not as rustic as some.AC12/7/24https://www.facebook.com/Siete-wines-100164205255798/
Siete Wines2022Gran ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed90Nose is typical but the palate is quite acidic for Carmenere. More red fruit. Moderate-light tannins. Medium-high alcohol. 12 months in 3rd use oak.AC12/7/24https://www.facebook.com/Siete-wines-100164205255798/
Singular2017Errante de CasablancaCasablancaSyrahRed91Powerful and structured. Aromas of dark chocolate and cherry. Balanced with medium acidity and tannins.CS9/1/19http://singular.wine/
Singular2017Errante del MaipoMaipoCarmenereRed91Chocolate aromas, blackberry jam, vanilla. Only around 2,100 bottles produced.CS9/1/19http://singular.wine/
Singular Wines2017ErranteCasablancaSyrahRed88Chilean nose. Darkest wine of their selection. Medium acid. Pepper. Some heatAC4/14/19http://singular.wine/
Singular Wines2017ErranteMaipoCarmenereRed9040 year old vines. 2,110 bottles made. Fresh. Floral and earthy. Red fruit.AC4/14/19http://singular.wine/
Singular Wines2018Cartesiano PipenoMaulePais, CarignanRed88Light easy simpleAC4/14/19http://singular.wine/
Singular Wines2016ErranteMaule, LoncomillaCabernet Franc, MerlotRed89Floral nose. Fresh. Savoury tannins. Only 1198 bottles made.AC4/14/19http://singular.wine/
Sinzero2017ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red75Dealcoholized wine. Dark smoky nose was passable as wine, but the palate tasted like watered down cranberry and welch's grape juice. Way too sweet and way too sour. AC11/25/18https://sinzero.cl/en/
Sol de Chile2017Villa AlegreMauleCarmenereRed88Typical carmenere nose. Palate is fruity and fresh. Decent for a 5 dollar wine. AC9/9/18http://www.deaguirre.cl/en/vinos-sol-de-chile/
Soler2018LimariSyrahRed90the winemaker is Felipe Solminhac who works for Aquitania. Meaty, savory nose with Tobacco which you can find on the palate too with dark, dried purple fruit, yet there's still decent acidity. Good concentration.AC1/1/22https://m.facebook.com/vinasoler/
Starry Night2014EmocionMaipoPinot NoirRed86Technically from Maipo but west towards the coast. Reticent earthy nose. Dark fruit on palate. Spice. Low acid. AC12/10/17https://starrynightwinery.com/
Starry Night2021LimariViognierWhite90Savory, minerally nose. Touch of white flowers. Body is medium+, oily, round, but some good acidity in the backend. White fruit.AC11/10/23https://starrynightwinery.com/
Susurros de Tumuñan2020Alto ColchaguaPinot NoirRed90Really floral, red fruity. Touch Pinot savory herbal notes on the nose. Soft. Light+ body. Round. Low acid, but still fresh. Owners are English. Winemaker is Ed Flaherty.AC11/10/23https://www.instagram.com/alicadden/?hl=en
Susurros de Tumuñan2021Alto ColchaguaPinot NoirRed90darker and spicier than the 2020. A little brighter, but still medium-low acid. Licorice. A little fuller than the 2020. Different style. Depends what you like.AC11/10/23https://www.instagram.com/alicadden/?hl=en
Sutil2014AcruxColchaguaRed BlendRed91Blend of CS, Cab Franc, Syah, Malbec, Carmenere, and Petit Verdot. Bright ripe fruit on the nose, roasted herbs and spice. Minerality. Palate fresh and silky, vanilla coffee oak. Modern style. However, the wine faded on the 2nd day, so don't think it's a long ager. AC9/17/18http://sutil.cl/home/
Sutil2021ReserveMauleBlendRose89Grenache-Syrah, which is different because they made their previous roses with mostly Cabernet from Colchagua; Pink watermelon jollyrancher color. Nice nose of ripe red berry fruit, floral notes and savory herbal notes. Not too far from Provence. The palate is simpler, but is dry and fresh with a little bit of spice.AC1/5/22https://www.sutil.cl/home/
Sutil2021ReserveMauleGrenache, SyrahRose8760% Grenache 40% Syrah. Slowly pressed and then fermented more like a white wine. 2-3 months contact with lees. Red berry fruit on the nose and palate. Light. Medium acid. A touch of spice. Proper rosé–not too different from Provence but perhaps a little less acidic than most. Short finish. Had this almost a year ago, and I think it was better (more expressive) then. This is why roses should be drunk younger.AC2/26/22https://www.sutil.cl/home/
Tabali2017Vetas BlancasLimariCabernet FrancRed90Takes 30-45 minutes for the nose to unfurl, but it’s pretty and complex with sweet floral notes, tobacco, herbal notes and some dark berry flavors. The palate also has some dark berry fruit along with a savory minerality and spice on the back end. Good acidity (3.25 pH) despite being more on the dark fruit side. No hard edges or heat despite 14.5% alcohol. Not a fruit driven wine, but it reminds me a lot of Right Bank Bordeaux with a lot of Cabernet Franc. Obviously, it’s missing the plumy Merlot since this is 100% Cabernet Franc, but the other minerally and herbal notes that can be found in Right Bank wines are there. The limestone and calcium carbonate mixed in the alluvial soil in Limari might be part of the reason. Vetas blancas means “white streaks” referring to the calcium powder streaks in the soil. Cabernet Franc is not one of the typical grapes grown in Limari, but it’s not a bad match.AC7/11/20https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
TabaliN.V.Tatie BrutLimariChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling90Traditional method, with French collaboration (Thienot) -nice nose, minerality. Lots of acidity. 60% Chardonnay/40%Pinot. Perhaps my favorite Chilean espumante so far. AC2/14/20https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
TabaliNVTatié BrutLimariChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling92. Continues to be my favorite Chilean espumante and is the closest thing to champagne I can find here, especially on the nose. Very bready and puff pastry like. The palate is elegant, fresh with good acidity, lots of small bubbles, and some minerality. It’s a little fruitier than an average champagne, but otherwise it matches a typical $30-50 non-vintage champagne unlike the overly fruity and sweet espumante you typically find here. The label itself boasts “Chilean terroir” and “French expertise” since champagne producer Thienot collaborates on this sparkling wine.AC2/27/21https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2017Gran Reserva PedregosoLimariPinot NoirRed90. PnP. From the Espinal Vineyard in Limari near the coast. The nose is interesting: smoky, minerally, earthy with some underlying dark red berry fruits and a little rubber. The palate his more fruit driven with dark red berry fruit like dark cherries and ripe raspberries, with good acidity, a touch of pepper and salinity, no hard edges. Definitely darker and a little heavier than your average Casablanca Pinot, but given how much further north it is, it’s still surprisingly fresh. Only a small % of the wine is aged in wood. I like this just as much or better than the Talinay Pinot Noir and it's only 7 dollars compared to the 20+ dollar Talinay.AC5/4/20https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2015TalinayLimariPinot NoirRed89Nose a little more classic with minerality, earth. Palate tasted like a grapefruit strawberry punch. A little cocktail like on the palate. AC8/19/18https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2014Espinal Vetas Blancas Reserva EspecialLimariSyrahRed89Dark color. Dark fruit with herbs and pepper. Fruit forward overall. Keeps fresh despite a touch of heat. AC4/8/18https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2016Gran Reserva PedregosoMaipoCabernet S. Red90Solid Chilean cab. Minerality. Herbal. Classic style on the palate with dark red fruit and acidity. Balanced.AC7/28/19https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2021TalinayLimariSauvignon BlancWhite93Limestone soil along the coast. Fermented at low temperature in stainless steel. Citrus and floral nose. Elegant on the palate. Less creamy than the Casa Marin. While the Laberinto is all about acidity and minerality at high intensity and the Casa Marin is varietally correct but fuller, this one is more about floral, fruity notes with a bit of minerality and lots of elegance. It has a 2.88 PH, but it’s still not enamel ripping acid like the Laberinto. Light and easy with pretty floral and lemony notes. Same intensity as the Casa Marin, but lighter and a lot less of the green notes. Less obviously Sauvignon Blanc but just an excellent white. 93+AC10/30/22https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2015MicasCachapoalCarmenereRed83Blackberry with black fruits. Average Cabernet. Drinkable.CS5/3/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2017Vetas Blancas Reserva EspecialLimariCabernet FrancRed89Lighter in color than expected. Not as concentrated either. Cassis and plum dominate with notes of oak aging and leather.CS3/1/20https://www.tabali.com
TabaliNVTatié BrutLimariChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling95With collaboration from the French, this brut is old-world in style with small, dispersed bubbles. Exactly what you want. Notes of toast and yeast with crisp lingering acidity. CS2/14/20https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tabali2016Pedregoso Gran ReservaLimariPinot NoirRed91Strawberry, black cherry with faint notes of blueberry. A very small wiff of vegetal aromas. CS4/17/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2019Pedregoso Gran ReservaLimariPinot Noir Rose93Balanced with a nice structure for a rose. Notes of light cherry and floral.CS4/17/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2022Pedregoso Gran ReservaLimariPinot Noir Rose87I’ve found this more expressive in the past, but I won’t complain for $6. Red fruit and floral nose, but shy. The palate has decent acidity and a touch of minerality with no hard edges, but a simple rose overall, which is all you expect at this price range.AC3/3/23https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2015Pedregoso Gran ReservaLimariSyrah, CarmenereRed87Fresh and fruity. Forward blackberry and plum. Little aging and notice the oak. CS3/13/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2017BarrancoLimariViognierWhite93Delicious viognier and tropical. Lemon zest, citrus, pineapple and pear. CS5/6/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2016Transversal Reserva EspecialMaipoBlendRed93Excellent red blend. Black fruit, pepper and slightly earthy. Well balanced oak aging with a hint of almond.CS3/13/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2017Pedregoso Gran ReservaMaipoMerlotRed89Oak and vanilla. Blackberry and cherry. Obvious mullberry and a slight tobacco finish. CS5/10/20https://www.tabali.com
Tabali2022TalinayLimariSauvignon BlancWhite92much more overt green notes this vintage. Asparagus. The 2021 was much more floral. Both have plenty of crisp acidity and minerality. Still young. 92+AC4/9/22https://tienda.tabali.com/
Tabali2016Roca MadreLimariMalbecRed92100% Malbec. Planted at 1,600 meter high elevation in the Andes in 2011, so young vines. Volcanic soils. Stainless steel fermented with 18 months in French oak. Don’t think much if any was new oak. There’s nice acidity and minerality to this wine but along with typical Malbec notes of dark purple fruit and violet notes. There’s a bit of chocolate and minor oak notes, but it’s well integrated. Behaves much younger than it is. Over time, the fruit and floral notes really start to open up but still more restraint and acidity than an average Argentinian Malbec for example. Still think it will develop some more. 92+AC9/18/23https://www.tabali.com/
Tabali 2021Pedregoso Gran ReservaLimariPinot NoirRose87On the palate, it’s what you’d expect from the light pink color. It’s lighy, easy, fruity and fresh. However, the aromatics are lacking at the moment. What I like about Pinot rose is it often carries some of the aromatics you get in Pinot reds.AC2/27/22https://www.tabali.com/en/vineyars/
Tarapaca2017Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red90Reliable wine. Always on the fruitier side of Cab. Easy to like. Smooth. But not super modern. Stays fresh. No exces oak or heat. Some Chilean herbaceousness to give it some personality but not too much. AC7/8/19https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2014Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red89Herbal nose. Cassis. Fruity and fresh palate. AC12/2/17https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2016Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red91Savoury herbs, baking spice on nose. Palate has red berry fruit, vanilla. Medium bodied. Light for a Cab. Feels more French in style. For 9 dollars, a great deal. AC8/17/18https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2016Gran Reserva Etiqueta Negra (Black Label)MaipoCabernet S.Red91More elegant than the regular Gran Reserva. Silkier. However, it was rather austere today. Some cassis and green herbiness. Chocolate, vanilla. Lower acid than the regular one. The main difference between the regular Gran Reserva and the black label is the black label is made from their best blocks of Cab. At least today, the regular label comes off fruitier and easy going while this one may take a little more time to open up. It's about 10 dollars more. 91+AC1/13/19https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca1996ReservaMaipoCabernet S. Red85Found stored at room temperature for much of the time. Low fill. Broken cork. Color showing very advanced aging at 22 years old, almost dull red and brown. I thought it was going to be dead. However, the nose had nice Cabernet notes of dark fruit and spice. There was a good amount of acidity with red and dark fruit and some tannins left. This is a cheap wine not really meant for aging and it didn't have more complexity from aging, but the original fruit notes were still hanging in there, but obviously not as vibrant as it was when younger. AC2/17/18https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2014Gran ReservaMaipoCarmenereRed91Interesting nose, verging on modern Rhone. Some caramel, chocolate, peppercorn. Ripe dark berry fruit. Fresh. Round. Savoury back end. Coffee. AC11/12/18https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2016Gran ReservaMaipoCarmenereRed88Tarapaca is owned by San Pedro. Modern Carmenere, ripe fruit dominated, but still remains fresh and touch of Carmenere green notesAC8/18/17https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2018Gran Reserva MaipoCabernet S.Red90Nose of ripe red and dark berries with some plum and just a touch of savory herbal and spice notes in the background. The palate is juicy with a little better acidity than most years. Some camphor. Medium-bodied. No hard edges. There’s some vanilla oak on the backend.AC6/12/21https://www.tarapaca.cl/
Tarapaca2021Gran ReservaLeydaChardonnayWhite88smells and taste like some oak influence with spice but otherwise a mid-weight, medium-acid Chardonnay.AC4/3/22https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2019Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red90Very Chilean on the nose with pyrazine notes. Moderate tannins. Medium acid. Round texture. Typically crowd-pleasing style of the producer. 2018 was a little brighter, better.AC4/3/22https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
Tarapaca2018Gran ReservaLeydaChardonnayWhite93Tarapacá with yet another 90+. Fantastic and talented producer. Large, full bodied chardonnay. Notes of slight butter, oak, green apple. Wiff of banana and hay. Large complex bouquet.CS11/12/19https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/
TerraMater2017ReserveIsla de MaipoZinfandelRed88Ripe dark berries, some spicy oak, but it's well integrated. Fresh. Lighter and fresher than most California Zins.AC11/6/18https://www.terramater.cl/?lang=en
TerraMater2017AltumMaipoMerlotRed97Heavily under-rated and under-priced. Classic Chilean merlot. Balanced oak, vanilla, chocolate notes. Dried plum, blueberry, wiff of licorice. CS9/3/19https://www.terramater.cl/?lang=en
Terramater2022MaipoSauvignon BlancWhite88mute on the nose, probably too cold. The palate is citrusy with passion fruit and a touch of savory green pepper and herbs. Medium-light body. More body than Sauvignon Blanc from San Antonio or Casablanca.AC1/6/24https://terramater.cl/inicio/
Terramater2020AltumMaipoCabernet SauvignonRed91Fairly young, big, rich red but no hard edges. Dark and red fruit. Chocolate. Spice. Medium acid. Some tannins but should be fine with food. 16 months in French oak. AC8/28/24https://terramater.cl/inicio/
Terramater2021Gran ReservaMaipoSangioveseRed9114 months in barrel, but I doubt much if any was new oak. The nose is spicy though: cinnamon, baking spice, dried herbs, tobacco. The palate starts with dark fruit, but finishes with tangy red fruit, moderate-light tannins, and medium length and body. Balanced, but a bit rustic, The closest Chilean Sangiovese I’ve had to Tuscan Sangiovese, like Chianti. It’s best with food like pizza or pasta with a tomato sauce just like Tuscan Sangiovese.AC5/17/24https://terramater.cl/inicio/
Terranoble2018Disidente NaranjoCasablancaPinot Blanc, Pinot GrisOrgange88Minerally bright nose. Palate tastes like skins. Not as vegetal as other organge wines I've had. Closer to a normal a white wine. AC2/28/20https://www.terranoble.cl/
Terranoble2014CA2 CostaColchaguaCarmenereRed90Rather typical and solid style of Chilean carmenere. Herbal, dark, graphite, no hard edges, balanced, fresh. A little more expensive though at 25 bucks. AC5/17/18https://www.terranoble.cl/
TerraNoble2017LahuenMaipo, ColchaguaBlendRed92Blend in terms of the grapes and regions: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo), 16% Carmenere (Colchagua), 6% Syrah (Colchagua), 4% Cabernet Franc (Maipo). 75% aged in new French oak. Immediately engaging and crowdpleasing. International style. Vanilla, mocha, baking spce, licorice with ripe red and blue berry fruit, a little mint, However, there’s good acidity to this too. The texture is super smooth. It’s a step up in intensity and silkiness with no hard edges at all compared to Chilean Cabernet blends a third of the price. At the same time, it’s not particularly distinct. It doesn’t even really have the Chilean herbal notes that many Chilean reds have. Definitely something modern wine lovers will like while at the same time having enough freshness and elegance to please some Old World wine lovers to a certain degree. However, modern wine lovers will like a lot more and probably rate it a bit higher than me.AC9/18/20https://www.terranoble.cl/
Terranoble2017Disidente PremiumMauleCarignan blendRed8985% Carignan with Mourvedre and Grenache. Savoury herbal nose. Tangy berry fruit. Tasted twice.AC2/28/20https://www.terranoble.cl/
Terranoble2017Gran Reserva MauleCarmenereRed88Roasted bell pepper, smokey, lots of acidity for a Carmenere but leaner than most, spice, a little heat and oak. Needs time to integrate. Tasted twice.AC2/28/20https://www.terranoble.cl/
Terranoble2017Disidente PremiumMauleSyrah blendRed8890% Syrah with some Tempranillo. Earthy nose. Reminds me of some Burgundy, but new world wine drinkers may not like it. High acid. On the light side for a Syrah. Not much mid-palate. Tasted twice.AC2/28/20https://www.terranoble.cl/
TerraNoble2018DisidenteCasablancaChardonnay, pinot blanc, pinot grisWhite94This is an orange wine. A white blend of chardonnay, pinot blanc and pinot gris aged on the grape skins for a longer time. Orange is not for everyone, however, this is varietally correct for the style and an excellent one at that.CS3/13/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2019ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite93Classic Chilean sauvignon blanc. Acidic, notes of grass, hay, citrus, slight orange zest with a sharp apple finish.CS2/5/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2017DisidenteCasablancaSyrah, TempranilloRed89Syrah dominate. Black pepper spice with structured tannins. Black fruit finish with a hint of tobacco.CS3/13/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2017Las Dichas Gran ReservaCentral ValleyChardonnayWhite87Reminded me of old world wines (Europe). However, TerraNoble is constantly excellent, this was slightly disappointing as compared to their other varietals. This was still a nice balanced chardonnay, but lacked memorable attributes.CS3/6/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2016Gran ReservaMauleCarignanRed97Varietally correct. Precise. This wine is delicious. Underpriced. Powerful and concentrated. Notes of raspberry, cherry, with some spices and oak.CS2/7/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2017DisidenteMauleCarignan, mourvedre, garnachaRed91Nice surprising balanced red blend. Structured with a fruit forward appearance. Slight smoke, mint and black pepper notes.CS3/13/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
TerraNoble2017Gran ReservaMauleCarmenereRed88Solid good go-to carmenere. TerraNoble is always constant in quality. Oak barrel aging notes with a wiff of coffee and leather. Hints of herbaceousness.CS2/14/20http://terranoble.cl/vineyards
Terrapura2019ReservaItataPinot NoirRed86This comes from a vineyard close to the coast in Itata. There aren’t many Chilean Pinots from Itata. Granite soil. Handpicked. 6 months in French oak. As indicated by its name, the producer supports sustainable production, but there are no specifics on their website if they follow organic or natural winemaking. This winery is now owned by Matetic. They export all over the world. It was only about $5 dollars at a grocery store in Santiago. The nose is a rather reticient, but there’s dark cherry, some herbal notes and a bit of floral notes. The palate is low-acid with dark berry, a bit of minerality and a somewhat creamy texture. There’s a bit of heat. Overall, it comes off rather generic. More like a modern styled Pais than Pinot since you’d expect the colder weather of Itata to produce a more red-fruited and fresher wine.AC12/9/20https://terrapura.cl/en/
Tierra del Itata (Vine Revival)2017Leonardo Erazo & Christelle Guibert ItataMoscatelOrange932,000 bottles made. 150-year-old ungrafted Muscat bush vines on granitic hills. Dry-farmed. 42 days of skin contact in concrete sphere-shaped tanks. Natural yeasts. Unfiltered. 12.5% alcohol. The color is definitely a transparent orange. I really like the nose. It just took me to so many places while at the same time I can’t quite describe it. It’s completely unique to me. There is a vegetal, leafy side, which you get in some orange wines, but it’s more subtle and integrated. There’s a bit of bruised apple and nuttiness reminding me of tawny port some. Then there’s an American BBQ smell to it too. The palate is dry, round and full for a white with some tannic structure still remaining. Lower in acid than I was expecting, but that didn’t take away from the wine overall, its freshness and the pairing with Indian food. There’s a bit of apricot, honey, dry apple cider with spices and a bitter beer taste or tea. It has good length too. It also tastes like Fall, and that’s the season we’re in here in Chile.AC5/20/22
Tinta Tinto2017?CasablancaPinot NoirRed90Light and elegant. Red fruit and super floral on the nose and palate. Very small prdocution. Only 2333 bottles made. AC3/31/19http://www.tintatinto.cl/
Tinto de Rulo2018Bio-BioMalbecRed89A small boutique winery. They only produce 1,200 bottles of this. Made from 140+ year old Malbec vines, which is older than most from Mendoza since a lot of Malbec in Argentina was pulled out for Bonarda until the 1990’s when Malbec became its most marketable grape. Still, low yielding ancient Malbec vines weren’t the most immediately profitable investment as Malbec became big. Anyway, it’s surprising to know that some of the oldest Malbec vines are in Chile. Unlike Mendoza, it’s cooler in the Bio-Bio Valley and it’s most likely dry-farmed. It’s aged 1 year in neutral used oak. Native yeast used. The nose starts off rather typical Malbec with dark berries, but it unfolds to floral and herbal notes. The palate is going to be rather light for those who prefer typical Argentinian Malbec. Blackberry. Plenty of acidity. Chalky tannins. Only 12% alcohol. Lacks the fullness of Argentinian Malbec. No oak influence since it was 10-used barrels. It reminds me more of the Cinsault that’s produced in this region and Itata. It has a pretty nose, but rather simple and light palate, making it very versatile with food and very different than the bigger Argentinian Malbecs out there that demand barbecued meat.AC10/29/20http://tintoderulo.cl/
Tintomare2020LeydaSyrahRed92A new producer. Founded in 2017. The name of this producer implies their intention to make cool-climate, coastal reds. I think they’ve planted coastal Pinot and Malbec too. Sourced from Santo Domingo, which is closer to the coast than the Emiliana Signos at only 6km from the Pacific. 4 months in second use oak barrels. Only 3,600 bottles made. This was about $14. Nose comes off as meaty, bloody with a touch of olives and pepper. However, dark fruit eventually appears but in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a nice lingering tanginess at the end. It’s also savory with tomato leaf notes, but the fruit emerges in the background and more with savory food. Dark berry fruit and dark sour plum and cherry. Tannins are soft. Rather classic Syrah with good freshness and approachability at this stage. This is the first time I tried Syrah with Carbonara pasta too, which seems to make sense given the pepper and fatty meat notes in Carbonara that match the Syrah, but also the cool climate acidity helping to cut through the fat. AC10/12/23https://www.tintomare.cl/
Tipaume2020GrezCachapoalBlendRed60% Carmenere, 30% Cabernet S., 4% Merlot, 3% Viognier, 2% Malbec, 1% Lacrimi Cristi (or Lacryma Christi, a type of Teinturier grape). Made and aged in amphorae. Dark and red fruit. Complex. Savory. Richer, dark, less acidic than the Sous La Terre, but it’s still fresh.AC11/6/21https://tipaume.cl/
Tipaume2019CachapoalBlendRedSame blend as the Tipaume Grez but this one spends 10 months used oak as opposed to amphorae. Softer in feel than the Grez. Darker. A little funk.AC11/6/21https://tipaume.cl/
Tipaume2016Sous la TerreCachapoalCarmenereRedBiodynamic producers. Demeter certified. Dry farmed. All estate fruit in Alto Cachapoal. They make only around 5,000 bottles a year. Also have B&B on property. 80% Carmenere. Amphorae. The name comes from how deep their dry-farmed vines go into the ground and their underground bodega. Fruity, zesty red fruited Carmenere with some savory and spice notes. Not much pyrazine for a Carmenere. AC11/6/21https://tipaume.cl/
Top Winemakers2015100 Barricas MultipleCabernet S.Red91Comes from 100 barrels of Cabernet Sauvignon with 2 barrels coming from 1 of 50 different vineyards in different valleys from 1 of 50 winemakers/producers. 18 months in barrel. Medium intensity nose with ripe cassis, cocoa and a bit of tomato leaf. However, it’s not obviously Chilean with strong pyrazine notes. The palate has an elegant feel and is balanced, which makes sense given the range of regions and producers in this wine. There’s good acidity and lots of upfront fruit with only subtle oak, spice and savory notes. It could use more on the mid-palate, but it was building up with more time in the glass.AC9/13/21https://topwinemakers.cl/
Trabun2013CachapoalSyrahRed91Complete Rhone-like nose of medium intensity: dried herbs, chocolate, meaty notes and ripe dark fruit. The palate is super smooth. Tannins must have softened with 7 years of age. Ripe blueberry, some licorice and vanilla. No excess heat or oak. It’s aged in used French oak barrels. 14% alcohol. It could use a little more acidity and verve, but otherwise it’s a smooth aged Syrah with slightly modern features on the palate but more French/Rhone-like nose, which is typical for Chilean wines in general. I don’t think it’s going to improve at this point, so drink now.AC8/10/20https://www.trabunwines.cl/#
Trapi del Bueno2016OsornoChardonnayWhite89A new Chilean Patagonian producer. Only about 1,200 bottles made. Not much on the nose. Palate is fresh but also with some buttery savoury notes.AC10/11/19https://www.facebook.com/vinatrapi.trapi
Trapi del Bueno2016OsornoSauvignon BlancWhite88Very different than the Chardonnay. Extremely tart and I generally want more acidity in my wines.AC10/11/19https://www.facebook.com/vinatrapi.trapi
Trapi del Bueno2021OsornoSauvignon BlancWhite91Minerally nose with a bit of green chili pepper. Clean and super fresh palate.AC6/8/22http://trapi.cl/
Trapi del Bueno2020Hand MadeOsornoChardonnayWhite9114 months in used barrel. Piercing acidity and minerality with a medium body. Salinic nose, but not expressive at the moment.AC11/1/23http://trapi.cl/
Trapi del Bueno2018Hand MadeAustralChardonnayWhite92Big and bold. Wiff of banana and graham cracker. Vanilla on the palate with classic green apple and citrus.CS10/11/19https://www.facebook.com/vinatrapi.trapi
Trapi del Bueno2017Hand MadeAustralSauvignon BlancWhite93Citric, high acid, green apples. A wiff of asperagus, pepper and grass. Slightly herbal.CS10/11/19https://www.facebook.com/vinatrapi.trapi
Trayenko2020CautinPinot NoirRed89The wine is made in Galvarino by a Mapuche woman named Rosa Pilquinao, who learned to make wine from Rodrigo Moraga of Aynco Wines, who make wines sourced from Bio Bio, Malleco and Cautin. Rosa comes from the Toro Melin Mapuche community in Galvarino. In fact, Malleco and Cautin are in the Araucania region, which is the stronghold for the Mapuche culture and community in Chile. The name Galvarino is also the name of a Mapuche hero who fought against the Spanish in the 16th century. The nose has an earthy, herbal tea quality to it with some bright dark red fruit. The palate is simpler and a bit thin on the midpalate, but also with bright, sour dark cherry fruit, no hard edges and light feel.AC4/7/22https://www.instagram.com/vinatrayenko/?hl=en
Tres C2020ItataCinsaultRedGranite soil. Nice nose of red fruit. Floral notes, Palate is minerally, salinic with good acid on the back end.AC11/6/21https://www.vinostresc.cl/
Tres C2020ItataPaisRedWhole cluster w/stems. A bit of carbonic maceration. Time with skins. In tinajas. It’s a tangy Pais with some green and natural funk.AC11/6/21https://www.vinostresc.cl/
Tres C2019Comvino, PipenoItataPaisRedstainless steel only. Rounder, darker fruit, less acidic, simpler than their other Pais with some herbal notes.AC11/6/21https://www.vinostresc.cl/
Tres Monos (Toro y Valdes)2016Mirador del NameMaule, CauquenesCarignan blendRed88~8,000 bottles made, ~78% Carignan with the rest Grenache Project of 3 winemaker friends, including Cristian Aliaga of William Fevre. The nose is heady with ripe red berry fruit with some savory herbs and tomato leaf. The palate has nice acidity with cherry liquor, some cinnamon, and a creamy feel but a little too much oak and alcohol on the back end. A little overdone for my taste. Carignan from Maule always reminds me of Italian wines, but this feels more southern Italian and rustic than some Chilean Carignan which are more northern Italian in style. It was slowly starting to integrate over the course of the meal, so it could get better. 88+ Part of MOVI, Chile's independent winery association.AC5/25/20https://es-la.facebook.com/vinos3monos/
Tres Palacios2019Family VintageMaipoMerlotRed90100% estate Merlot planted on alluvial soils in the Cholqui Valley in coastal Maipo. 10-12 months in French oak. The nose shows ripe plummy notes, spice, herbs and chocolate. The palate is medium-bodied, with a creamy and smooth texture, medium-acid, ripe fruit and a touch of camphor. There’s enough juicy acidity on the back end to keep it from being flabby and the 14% alcohol gives it warmth but it’s not hot. It leans towards Bordeaux in a warm year, but perhaps more Left Bank with its herbal side as if it had some Cabernet Sauvignon or Franc in it.AC10/17/24https://www.vinatrespalacios.cl/
Tringario2017LudopataColchaguaMarselanRed90Marselan is a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache created in France. It's used in southern France and Italy in blends and apparently it's a grape that's starting to take off in China. Fairly dark color. Nose ha some dark cassis and blueberry with herbs and pepper, menthol. Decent acidity. Soft tannins. Only 200 cases made. Not a wine to age. AC4/4/19http://www.tringario.com/en/home/
Tringario2018LudopataColchaguaMarselanRed882,500 bottles made. Dark purple color. The nose smells like ripe Cabernet, with ripe dark cassis. Medium bodied. The palate reminds me more of ripe Grenache, with ripe blueberries along with some spice, pepper and herbs. All this makes sense since Marselan is a Cabernet Sauvignon-Grenache hybrid. There’s a bit of heat from the 14.5% alcohol and it lacks acidity, which is strange given the cooler vintage. The 2017 of this was fresher and that was a hotter year. Just feels like they over-did this one a bit. It wasn’t decanted very long though, so it might improve some.AC4/18/21http://www.tringario.com/en/home/
Tumunan2017ColchaguaCabernet S., SyrahRed89Standard Chilean Cabernet S. nose with a bit of earth. More red fruit for Cab or Syrah. AC4/14/19https://www.tumunan.com/wines.html
Umbra Pluviae2019ConfususMauleBlendRed88Blend of Malbec, Carignan, Pais. This is a new project from winemakers Magdalena Mendoza and Antonio Bunster. Natural wine. Old vine, dry-farmed. They also have Cabernet Franc called Punta de Rojas sourced from Sagrada Familia and they’ve recently grafted on some Zinfandel onto old Pais, so their Zinfandel may be released in a couple of years. The Confusus is quite dark. Purple. The nose takes 20 minutes to open up and is dominated by purple fruit mixed with a touch of violet and shrubs. The palate is medium bodied with medium-low acidity and follows through with the purple fruit and some minerality. This feels like it’s mostly Malbec. They don’t specify the percentages of the blend. I was hoping for more acidity from the Carignan though.AC1/13/21https://www.instagram.com/umbrapluviae/
Undurraga2018PinotCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red84In a strange shaped bottle labeled Pinot, but it was a Cabernet. Had at a restaurant, and this is essentially a basic simple fruity table wine probably made just for restaurants. I wonder if the Pinot name is similar to California's history of calling wines "Burgundy" even though they were made with heavier varietals and made in a claret style. AC10/27/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2015SibarisColchaguaCarmenereRed87Solid, typical middle of the road Chilean CarmenereAC10/14/17https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Sibaris Gran ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed88Standard definition of Chilean Carmenere. Green pepper. Soft tannins. Dark fruit. Just enough freshness. No new oak.AC8/8/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Founder's CollectionColchaguaCarmenereRed89+Peppercorn, ripe dark fruit. Some tannic structure. Still stays fresh. Could still improve.AC10/27/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2016T.H.LeydaPinot NoirRed91Screw cap. Nice nose. Citrus high tone red fruit. Earthy and mineral notes. Palate is smooth red strawberry fruit with some spice. Classic style. AC1/18/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2018T.H.LeydaSauvignon BlancWhite89Fruity and minerally. A little citrus. Clean. Still would like it a little crisper and acidic. AC10/27/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2016Founder's CollectionMaipoCabernet S.Red9016 months in new oak. Herbal notes. Well structured with acid and tannins. Full. Dark fruit. Spice.AC8/8/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Sibaris Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red88Dark fruit but fresh. Simple but balanced.AC10/27/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Late Harvest Reserve EspecialMaipoSemillon, Sauvignon BlancDessert
8850/50 Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Decent last harvest wine, but a bit astringent on the back end. AC8/8/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
UndurragaN/AT.H.MauleCarignanRed90Egg nog, mint, big dark palate, good acidity. Feels like southern ItalyAC9/16/17https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2016T.H. RaritiesMauleGrenache blendRed92690 cases made. 60% Grenache, 25%Carignan, 15% Mourvedre. Interesting nose of ripe berry fruit, slate, herbs. Rich dark berry fruit and red fruit on the palate. Licorice. Minerality. Balanced. I like this wine.AC11/20/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2016T.H.Maule, CauquenesMontepulcianoRed88Only 340 cases made. Dark color. Some savoury herbs. Simple palate, soft tannins. Dark fruit and spice. Sort of an Italian merlot. Lacks acidity though. AC8/16/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2020T.H.Maule, CauquenesMontepulcianoRed91100% Montepulciano. 570 cases made. Taken from Italy and grafted onto 80 year old Pais vines. Fermented with native yeasts. 3 daily pumpovers. Aged 14 months in second use French oak. This is a crowd-pleaser. Ripe dark berry fruit on the nose and palate with a silky texture. There’s a touch of acidity (3.48 PH) and soft tannins giving it some structure along with a slight savory note on the back-end. Otherwise, this is an easy drinking, ripe, fruity wine.AC5/2/23https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2012T.H.San AntonioRieslingWhite91Mineral nose. Slightly creamy palate, but still high acid. Apple. AC8/8/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2013T.H.San AntonioRieslingWhite90Nose is fresh with apple, citrus and minerality. Palate is similar. Clean and pure, a bit creamy. Lower acid than most riesling though. AC1/29/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2014Terrior Hunter RaritiesCentralMontepulcianoRed98Near perfect wine. Older, has held up extremely well. Rounded, mature, complex. 80 year old dry-farmed vines with only 50 cases produced. Complex barrel notes, concentrated dark fruit with a lingering finish.CS9/7/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Demi-SecCentral ValleyChardonnaySparkling87Sweeter bubbles. Green apple, citrus with hints of honey. Good for an afternoon. CS4/26/20https://www.undurraga.cl/
UndurragaNVRosé RoyalLeydaPinot NoirSparkling92Fresh, fruity, easy drinking. Raspberry, ripe cherry notes. Tangy on the palate, citrus and slightly minerally.CS9/23/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017SibarisMaipoMerlotRed88Obvious blackberry aroma as if covered in baking spices. Suave on the palate with medium acid and dark forest fruits.CS10/14/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Terroir HunterMauleCarignanRed95With a great price point affordable to many, the quality here makes it undervalued. Aromas of balanced oak, tobacco and vanilla. Dark fruits on the palate of blackberry and plum, slight red berry finish.CS10/14/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2017Terrior HunterPeumoCarmenereRed89Very aromatic, perfumey. Pronounced oak aroma with mixed berry fruit. Oak on the palate wiht some cherry and vegetal notes to it.CS10/14/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2016Terroir HunterSan AntonioRieslingWhite87Decent riesling. Not bone dry. Aromas of honey and beeswax. Citrus profile of lime and grapefruit. Lower than expected acidity. CS10/14/19https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2020Black Series SibarisMauleViognier, RoussaneWhite9080% Viogner 20% Roussane. Fruity, floral. Touch herbal. Not as full-bodied, high-alcohol and low in acid as some Viognier can be, making it a fairly versatile white to drink with different foods.AC2/26/22https://www.undurraga.cl/
Undurraga2019Sibaris Black SeriesMauleBlendRed89Syrah, Carignan, Grenache (60/30/10) A combo of ripe fruit with Carignan giving it some freshness. There's also some meatiness. Touch of heat. Still young with tannins to resolve.AC4/22/23https://www.undurraga.cl/
Valdivieso2013Single VineyardColchaguaCabernet FrancRed88Tight. Elegant and lighter style. Some vanilla oak. Needs to open up. AC8/10/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
Valdivieso2012Single VineyardColchaguaCarmenereRed88Herbaceous nose, fruity palate, no hard edges, but too much oak. AC8/10/18http://www.valdiviesowines.com/
Valdivieso2020EclatSagrada Familia CuricoGrenacheRose8885% Grenache, 10% Pinot Gris, 5% Syrah. Light clear peach pink color. You get savory herbal notes on the nose, typical of Chile but also similar to the garrigue you’d get in Provence. In fact, this has the profile of a Grenache based rose from Provence. Juicy palate. Easy drinking. Nothing super-complex or intense, but that’s not what you’re usually looking for in a rose anyway.AC1/21/21http://www.valdiviesowines.com/?lang=en
Valle Herradura2023Guairabo ReservaColchaguaCarignanRed929 month 2nd use oak. Quite powerful sour cherry fruit. A little fruitier than average but still with lots of acidity. Just higher alcohol. Colchagua is warmer than Maule.AC12/7/24https://valleherradura.cl/
Valle Herradura2023Papa Viejo ReservaColchaguaPetit VerdotRed9010 months in oak. Good ripeness of fruit. Moderate tannins but relatively riper and softer for PV.AC12/7/24https://valleherradura.cl/
Valle Herradura2023Guairabo Ensamblaje ColchaguaBlendRed9040 Carignan, 40 Carmenere, 20 PV. Juicy fruit with good acid. Tannic. Warm. A bit vegetal on the back end. Maybe the Carmenere.AC12/7/24https://valleherradura.cl/
Valle Secreto Vineyards Winery2017Private BlendCachapoalBlendRed9118,527 bottles made; 40% Syrah 35% Carmenere 25%Cabernet Sauvignon. Nice ripe dark berry fruit nose with a little menthol that is later complimented by chocolate, vanilla, toasty oak and tiny bit of savory herbal notes. The palate follows through with more of that dark berry but with good acidity, a velvety texture, and some licorice and vanilla. Overall a modern wine, but it stays fresh and has no sense of the 14.5% alcohol. 91-92.AC7/4/20https://www.vallesecreto.cl/copia-de-inicio
Valle Secreto Vineyards Winery2017First Edition Late HarvestCachapoalViognierDessert91Nice bouquet. Honey, pear, slightly buttery and tropical. Well balanced with nice sweetness, not too much.CS10/6/19https://www.vallesecreto.cl/copia-de-inicio
Vendimia del Desierto2021PajareteHuasco, AtacamaPaisDessert86The nose reminds me of traditional Pais wines coming out of Maule and Itata. Most likely native yeasts. Vegetal at first, but it becomes more floral, earthy and spicy with sweet cherry fruit. The palate started a bit fizzy, but it passed. It tastes like cherry syrup but a bit bitter and medicinal on the back end. It doesn’t have the acidity or complexity of the Pais based Asoleados I’ve had. Those were aged much longer (in barrel between 1.5-6 years before release and in bottle before tasting). This is only 1.5 years old total. I think this could get better with age, but it definitely seems sweeter and simpler than Asoleados I’ve had which undergo more aging in the winery. 86+AC9/21/22https://www.instagram.com/pajaretevendimia/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
Ventisquero2015Tara 2AtacamaSyrahRed93Cloudy ruby purple, so clearly not filtered. The nose is immediately expressive with ripe blackberry and blueberry. There’s a bit of baking spice and savory jerky notes. The palate is smooth with just enough freshness and minerality to give an edge to the fruit. A touch of pepper. This is quite true to the varietal in a fresh ripe way without going over the top with alcohol, extraction or oak. An excellent wine. Ready to drink now. More Rhone in style. Probably my favorite Syrah I’ve tasted in Chile. John Duval, formerly of Penfolds in Australia, is the consulting winemaker at Ventisquero. AC1/26/21https://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015Kalfu MoluCasablancaPinot NoirRed88Easy simple Pinot.AC3/31/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015Queulat Single VineyardCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Tannic for a Pinot. Complex. Red fruit. Burgundy barnyard and floral nose. More alcohol than most. AC3/31/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed85herbal nose, minerality, plum, low acid, some oak and heatAC8/26/17http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed87Fresh and fruity, some medicinal notes. Simple. AC10/14/17http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2016GreyColchaguaCarmenereRed87Typical nose. Herbal. Menthol. Dark fruit. Medium acid. Some heat and a little disjointed.AC4/26/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015Vertice ColchaguaCarmenere, SyrahRed91Carmenere like nose. Syrah like palate. Ripe yet elegant feel. Apalta vineyardAC3/15/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2016GreyColchaguaGrenache blendRed8960% Grenache with the rest Carignan and Mourvedre. Reticient nose. Dark berry. baking spice. Round but fresh. Fruit driven. Not much complexity. AC11/26/17http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2017GreyColchaguaGrenache blendRed90Screw top. Dark red fruit, savoury herbs and spice. Blueberry. Licorice. No hard edges. Medium acid. Mostly Grenache with a decent amount of Carignan and Syrah too. Only around 11 dollars.AC1/9/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2018Grey Apalta VineyardColchaguaGrenache blendRed90Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre. Quite Rhone like. Gariggue like herbal nose. Fresh dark red fruit on the palate. AC3/15/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2017GreyColchaguaSyrahRed88Rich, dark, but still on the lighter side compared to other New World syrah. AC4/26/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015Tara Red Wine 1Huasco, AtacamaPinot NoirRed91Around 328 cases made. Light color and texture. Despite being from the furthest north in Chile from the Atacama desert, it is closer to the wine I had just drunk from Patagonia than some of the more modern Pinots from other regions of Chile. It is red fruit. Has some sea salt. Good acidity. A touch floral, but mostly a fruity wine. It wasn't at all overripe and raisiny as I thought it might be. Even though it's from Atacama, it's close enough to the coast to get some cool air. At the same time, it's not really worth the 50 dollars except for the novelty of having a rare wine from this region. AC8/10/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2016Grey Terrazas VineyardLeydaPinot NoirRed90Solid typical Chilean Pinot from Leyda or Casablanca. Earthy nose. Dark red fruit. Good acid. AC3/15/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2014Grey Glacier Trindidad MaipoCabernet S.Red89Ripe cassis, graphite, milk chocolate, sweet oak. Standard Chilean CabAC9/19/17http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2016GreyMaipoCabernet S.Red90Herbal but not green nose. Fruit forward palate. Black and red cassis. Fresh and easy drinking. AC5/1/19http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2015Queulat Gran Reserva "Trinidad"MaipoCarmenereRed85Nose rather dull. Low acid. Light and subtle. Has elegance but no produndity. Something for lighter foods. AC5/30/18http://www.ventisquero.com/
Ventisquero2017Grey (Glacier); Longomilla VineyardHuasco, AtacamaSauvignon BlancWhite98Near perfect score. Varietally correct. Complex, long lingering acidity, well priced. Complex aromas, citrus, grapefruit, wet cut grass. A wiff of ginger. Minerality, chalky. From the Atacama comes different terrior, engaging twist in the classic sav. blanc profile than say, Casablanca. CS10/23/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2023Grey (Glacier); Longomilla VineyardHuasco, AtacamaSauvignon BlancWhite91Nose of citrus and somewhat riper fruit than say Leyda/Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc and milder green notes which tastes more like baked green vegetables and herbs as opposed to raw green vegetables like bell-pepper, grass and jalapeno which SB can sometimes have. Although it’s still zesty, it’s also a bit lower acid, bigger bodied and riper on the palate than average Chilean SB. There’s also more salinic minerality than Casablanca/Leyda SB, which the label says is due to the calcareous soil. Overall, it makes sense given that this grows in the Atacama desert, but it maintains the acidity because it’s only 20 something km from the coast.AC4/19/24http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2015Queulat Gran Reserva Single VineyardCasablancaPinot NoirRed96Engaging pinot. Classic sour cherry and red fruits. Slight aroma of barrel age with notes of fresh cloves. Balanced light tanning, dry, medium-high acidity.CS12/10/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2018ReservaCasablancaSauvignon blancWhite92For the price it is hard to beat. Citrus, kiwi, tropical notes. Green apple and pear finish. Light in color, good acidity.CS12/7/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2018Alma de Los Andes ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite97For the price, this is another near perfect wine by Ventisquero. Tropical notes such as passion fruit and especially kiwi. Wiff of lime. Pear and sharp green apple on the finish with lingering acidity.CS10/19/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2018Grey [Glacier]ColchaguaGarnacha, Cariñena, MataroRed90 Immediate aromas included strawberry and licorice. Other notes consisted of ripe raspberry, dark cherry and a wiff of elderflower. There were some notes of oak, but very faint ones. Had a slight earthy characteristic to it reminding me of leaves right before they fall off the tree.CS5/29/20http://www.ventisquero.com/ventisquero/grey-gcm.php
Ventisquero2016Grey (Glacier) Single BlockColchaguaMerlotRed94Barrel spice and notes of vanilla, smoke with concentrated black fruits. Interesting bouquet and great acidity. Underpriced.CS1/28/20http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2018Alma de Los Andes ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red93Possibly my favorite budget line of wine. Cheap price. For the price:quality it is hard to beat this. Balanced, oak, fresh, raspberry with a slight plum finish.CS12/7/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2017Alma de Los Andes ReservaMaipoCabernet S.Red93Unable to pick a favorite between 2017 or 2018 vintage. Both I rate 93 for price:quality. Slightly more cherry on the 2017. Excellent.CS8/16/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2016Alma de Los Andes ReservaMaipoSyrahRed93Again for the price, Ventisquero does it again. Lighter in color than expected. Barrel notes, vanilla, chocolate. Palate blackberry, ripe plum, slight spice.CS9/15/19http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventisquero2017ReservaMaulePaís, MoscatelMix84A blend of red and white grapes. Not sure about this one. Notes of red fruit raspberries and pear. Light in color, body, style.CS1/17/20http://www.vinaventisquero.com/en/
Ventolera2015LeydaPinoit Noir, SyrahRed8865% Pinot Noir. 32% Syrah. 2% Chardonnay. Color looks more like Syrah. Funky nose of some reduction and dry meat. Herbal. Palate has dark and red fruit with good acidity. Just doesn't quite feel together. I'm not convinced Pinot can be blended as a red wine other than maybe with some gamay or similar grapes. Interesting experiment though.AC11/26/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2014LitoralLeydaPinot NoirRed91Nice Nose. Dark red fruit, saline. Palate red fruit. Good acid. Some herbal and floral notes. Winemaker is Stefano Gandolini, so it's a little more modern but not new world Syrah modern. Sort of in between Chilean and Californian rather than the straight up Californian. Good deal for around 15 bucks.AC8/10/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2014LitoralLeydaPinot NoirRed90Scewtop. Second time having this wine. Pinot nose with some smoky and spicy notes. Dark fruit for a Pinot. Some earthiness. A little more towards Rhone in style compared ot the last time.AC3/15/20http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2016LeydaPinot NoirRed92Very Pinot nose-mineral earthy herbal pungency. Palate of dark sour cherry. No hard edges. A little more potent than the Litoral but not that different. AC12/24/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2016LeydaSauvignon BlancWhite92Nice wine. Lots of freshness but also with minerality and salinity.AC10/11/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2016LeydaPinot NoirRed92Wet forest floor aroma. Earthy and rustic. Palate was slight sour cherry and saline. Well oaked with a wiff of clove and smoke.CS11/2/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Ventolera2016LeydaSauvignon BlancWhite98Near perfect representation of Sauvignon Blanc at its peak from Leyda. Acidic, powerful, citrus with lemon and lime aromas. Slightly herbal with some asperagus and salinity.CS10/11/19http://gvvterroirs.com/
Venus Furs2022Bourbon Barrel AgedMauleCarmenereRed894 months in Kentucky Bourbon Barrels (Nobel) There's some vanilla, caramel and mesquite with smooth medium bodied palate. Medium acid. Touch of heat. Moderate tannins. Not overdone with the Bourbon barrel but perhaps others would want more.AC4/6/24https://www.nobelchile.com/en/our-vineyard/
Veramonte2017CasablancaPinot NoirRed86Simpler and less potent than the Ritual Pinot, but similar dark fruit modern style. AC8/17/19https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2019ReservaCasablancaMerlotRed87A little Chilean herbal notes on the nose, but mostly about dark ripe fruit. Similarly dark ripe plum on the palate with medium acid and a bit of tannic structure, but here's also some heat and bitterness on the back end. AC4/1/22https://www.veramonte.cl/home
Veramonte2016
CasablancaChardonnayWhite87Medium bodied with green apple and lemon notes.CS5/23/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2016ReservaCasablancaChardonnayWhite88Peach pear and stonefruit.CS7/30/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2016CasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite86Citrus and tropical fruit with minerality.CS12/4/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2016ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite89Floral with hints of melon and lime.CS9/29/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2015ColchaguaCabernet S.Red85Very fruity. Simple. Excellent option for a budget.CS2/19/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2015ColchaguaCarmenereRed85Simple. Green bell pepper. Medium bodied.CS2/19/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veramonte2015ColchaguaMerlotRed86Blue fruit forward with notes of blueberry and blackberry.CS7/25/17https://www.veramonte.cl
Veranda2013QuinelBio-BioPinot NoirRed88Earth, minerally nose. Cherry liquor, spice with some spice and heat on the palate. AC10/19/17http://vinaporta.cl/
Vercellino2015Chateau Potrero Seco Reserva Privada BlendMaipoCabernet s., cabernet franc, petit verdot, carmenereRed87Strong notes of strawberry, wiff of smoke. Medium acidity medium body. Red fruit jam. Barrel notes, oak, vanilla.CS9/4/19http://chateaupotreroseco.cl/es/the-winery/
Vernaculares Bogus2017Tres VacasQuilpuePaisRed89French owner. Very floral and earthy nose. Some cola and tang on the palate. Tastes like a rustic Beaujolais. AC11/23/18https://vinosvernaculares.wixsite.com/bogus
Via Wines2015Chilcas Red OneMauleBlendRed8930 minute decant. 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Carmenere, 10% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot. This is a very middle of the road modern-ish Chilean blend. Nose with a bit of savoury herbs, tomato leaf. Nothing overtly green like some Chilean wines. Then there’s some vanilla and coffee. Ripe plumy fruit. The palate is medium everything: medium bodied, medium-low acid, medium round tannic structure. Same fruit as on the nose. There’s a touch of heat and oak. From the San Rafael Vineyard, grown on volcanic soil, but don’t sense much it of it in the wine. At $15, it doesn’t quite merit the price compared to its other Chilean peers in the same range, but nobody's going to complain about this wine either. AC6/3/20https://viawines.com/en/
Vik2015Milla CalaCachapoalBlendRed92Modern blend of Cabernet with some Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and a bit of Carmenere. Plum, cassis. Ripe and rich. Balanced but a little chunkier than the Garage Wine Co. Cabernet next to it. More hedonistic. Some chocolate. None of the Chilean leafy green notes. Keeps fresh though. Around 3,000 cases are made. Still young. 92+AC12/25/19https://vikwine.com/en/
Vik2013Milla Cala Cachapoal-MillahueBlendRed9247% CS, 44%Carmenere, 9%Cabernet Franc. Owned by a Norwegian. This is essentially his entry level, but it costs at least 30 dollars in Chile. His regular Vik bottling has become sort of a cult wine. Nose is complex. Dark fruit. Saboury herbs. Tobacco. Graphite. Chocolate. Left bank Bordeaux like. Palate is more modern. Dark ripe fruit, vanilla, camphor but keeps a streak of acidity without being over-oaked or hot. Still has some tannic grip for further aging. Around 3,000 cases made. 92+AC4/12/19https://vikwine.com/en/
Vik2020La Piu BelleCachapoalCabernet S.Rose91The color is surprisingly a very light transparent pink which I wasn’t expecting given the varietals, so they must have received very little skin contact. The nose is more complex than an averge rose with herbal and floral notes and minerality. The palate is more standard with medium acid dark red berry fruits and a little plum. Perhaps a tad bit more substantial than most roses but still light and easy like most.AC3/22/21https://www.vikwine.com/en/
Vik2021La Piu BelleCachapoalCarmenere blendRed93This was the first of their artist label series wines. The label was designed by Chilean artist Gonzalo Cienfuegos. 76% Carmenere, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc. 20 months in French oak barrels (15% of the oak was toasted from branches of oak trees found on the property). This can cost up to $80-100, but I found it on sale for around $50. Dark almost opaque color. The nose is shy with a savory, herbal side. However, the palate is gregarious with intense, ripe red and blue fruits. The red fruits give it acidity and lift. The tannins are suave and the overall feel is seamless and easy going. There’s some herbs, spice and paprika on the back end, but it’s mostly about elegant, juicy fruit at this stage. Not much oak influence at this point either. Stylistically, it’s less modern than Purple Angel and Clos Apalta, which are fuller, darker, more oaked and less acidic. However, it’s not Loire Valley Cabernet Franc either. It’s ripe and juicy with only mild herbal notes. Still young, so it could improve and gain complexity. 93+AC12/27/23https://www.vikwine.com/en/
Vik2016Milla CalaCachapoalBlendRed9267% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Carmenere, 11% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Syrah. Already quite open. Nose with cool bright fruit and obvious Chilean peppercorn herbal pyrazine notes, but well integrated. The palate is super-elegant with red cassis and plum. A little spice. It glides on your palate. I like this better than the 2015 which I drunk at roughly the same age. Some may not like the more obvious pyrazine notes, but what it lacks in ripeness and power to the 2015, it makes up for it with its elegance and more acidity. Ready to drink now. 96,000 bottles made.AC3/27/21https://www.vikwine.com/en/
Villa ReuseRetaño Gran Reserva EnsamblajeCentral ValleyBlendRed8955% Cabernet Franc, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon – Reticient nose, but the palate definitely has the vegetal side of Cab Franc, but there’s also some fruit. Something for Loire Valley Cab Franc lovers.AC10/1/22https://www.villareuse.cl/
Villa ReuseRetaño Reserva de familiaCentral ValleyBlendRed8975% Cabernet S. 25% Cabernet Franc – Fruitier than Gran Reserva. Dark berries, plum. Medium acid. Medium-bodied.AC10/1/22https://www.villareuse.cl/
Villalobos2017SilvestreColchagua, LololCarignanRed91Wild grown vines, interesting nose of green bushes, peach, citrus and floral notes. Herbal notes. Sort of peach ice tea like. Palate is red fruit and floral. Rustic feel. 10,000 bottles made.AC8/30/19https://villaloboswine.cl/en/home/
Villalobos2016Zorrito SalvajeMaule, ItataPais, CinsaultRed91Juicy, fresh, some barnyard, earthy, salinity. Only 333 cases made. Wild grown vines.AC9/13/17https://villaloboswine.cl/en/home/
Villalobos2016Zorrito Salvaje Limited EditionMauleCinsault, PaísRed90Ruby red color. Lighter texture and body. Raspberry, fresh red fruit. Wiff of leather.CS9/10/19https://villaloboswine.cl/en/home/
Villalobos 2018Silvestre ReservaColchaguaCarignanRed91~850 cases made. 40 year old Carignan vines allowed to grow wildly with other native vegetation such as trees without any pruning or irrigation. Some vines grow several meters up along the tree branches. Native yeasts. Neutral oak agin 18 months. Unfiltered, Unfined. Unpressed. Transparent red color. Always find this wine exotic, especially on the nose. Spice. Brush. Savory. Citrus. Berry fruit. But also peach. The palate displays high acid and savory notes typical of Carignan with no hard edges.AC8/26/21https://villaloboswine.cl/en/home/
Villard2016Expresion ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Classic earthy dirty Pinot nose. Some salinity. Palate is red fruit dominated and elegant with a little spice. Palate is more modern while the nose is more classic, a common characteristic of Chilean Pinot. AC10/10/18https://villard.cl/
Villard2016Expresion ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Same as I remember. Earthy and herbal red fruit nose. Big enough on the palate with good acidity to handle beef stew.AC4/8/19https://villard.cl/
Villard2016Grand VinCasablancaPinot NoirRed92They make about 500 cases of this. Vibrant bright red fruit, citrus and floral on the nose. Some herbal notes too. Palate has similar notes with red cherry/strawberry fruit. Ripe but fresh. You don't feel the 14.5 alcohol. It could still improve and soften up still. 92+AC11/10/19https://villard.cl/
Villard2017Grand VinCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Slightly modern for a Casablanca Pinot with ripe darkish fruits, but there's enough acidity and stays elegant to keep from going too far. A little spice. AC2/16/20https://villard.cl/
Villard2017Expresion ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Breathed for about an hour in bottle and glass. There’s a bit of reduction which I like. Earthy and minerally nose with some floral notes. Some bright strawberry and cherry notes. The palate is light and smooth with red fruit and good acidity. There’s a touch of spice. I actually like this better than the Grand Vin at the moment which is darker and more substantial while this is more elegant. It’s a little prettier. Maybe the Grand Vin has more potential, but the Expresion is so pretty now.AC5/27/20https://villard.cl/
Villard2020JCV Charlie Villard RamatoCasablancaPinot GrigioOrangeN/A2 months skin contact (orange wine). Natural wine. Low acid, minerality. Some reductive notes. Fruity palate and less vegetal than many orange wines.AC9/3/21https://villard.cl/
Villard2018ExpresionCasablancaChardonnayWhite894% fermented and aged in oak. The rest in stainless steel. However, this came off as the oakiest of all the Chardonnay. It had toasty, smoky and caramel notes framing the wine, but still a lot of acidity and light feel on the palate. Mid-palate was a bit hollow.AC11/12/21https://villard.cl/
Villard2018Expresión ReserveCasablancaSauvignon blancWhite83Grapefruit and grassy notes. Not enough acidity especially for a sauvignon blanc. Very light body.CS11/15/19https://villard.cl/
Villard2020Gran VinCasablancaChardonnayWhite92floral, fruity and fresh nose. Palate is medium-bodied-somewhat oily, medium-acid. Ripe white stone fruit. Medium+ intensity overall.AC12/4/22https://villard.cl/
Villard2022Expresión ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed8976% aged in stainless steel and the rest in various sized French oak. The nose is Burgundy like with sublte oak spice and earthiness with fruit and floral notes. The palate is more New World to me though with riper, dark red fruit, less and more alcohol. There’s a touch of heat. There’s also a chalky component.AC6/15/23https://villard.cl/
VillardExpresión ReserveCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite90A Sauvignon Blanc with more body, creaminess than most. But still good acidity and mild jalapeño pepper notes.AC9/27/23https://villard.cl/
VillardExpresión ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed9016% oak. nice spicy side to it, slightly earthy, Burgundy nose with a fruity, easy palate. Already good now for everyday drinking.AC9/27/23https://villard.cl/
VillardGrand VinCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Compared to the Reserve, this has more body, concentration, darker fruit more tannic, even more spice - more oak influence. 100%. Still needs time to integrate and open up. 91+AC9/27/23https://villard.cl/
VillardJCV CasablancaGrenacheRed9013 months in foudre. 30% with stems. More tannic and spicy than the Carignan. Just bottled a month ago. Darker fruit though. Less acid. Needs a little time to settle down. AC9/27/23https://villard.cl/
VillardJCVMauleCarignanRed90This is their “natural” wine line. Fermented like Pinot with 10% Pinot added. A softer, fruitier version although there's still good acidity but also floral aspects and less wood influence that I can detect although it spends 1 year in barriques.AC9/27/23https://villard.cl/
Villasenor2015 Invitis Limited EditionCachapoalPetit VerdotRed90An elegant style Petit Verdot with floral notes, good acidity. Light and easy.AC4/14/19https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2009CuricoBlendRed91Still fresh at 10 years. Blend of Carmenere, CS, Merlot and Syrah. Some leather and earth. Good acidity. Still some tannins for further aging. AC4/14/19https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2013ReservaCuricoCarignanRed88Red and tangy, but hollow mid-palate, some heat. Savoury nose. AC11/25/18https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2014ReservaCuricoCarmenereRed88Typical Carmenere nose. Dark fruit, medium-light bodied. Some heat. This producer exports mostly to Asia. AC11/25/18https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2015KenorCuricoCarmenereRed90Red fruited Carmenere, earth and herby nose, good acid, some tannins to resolve. AC4/14/19https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2014ReservaCuricoSyrahRed88Simple, no hard edges. Dark. Round. Med-Low acid. AC11/25/18https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2017?41 degree LatitudPuelo Patagonia DO AustralPinot NoirRed92Minerally rocky nose. Fresh and tangy red fruit, with mineral salinity. Very light in color. Fresh like Patagonia, but too expensive at around 70 dollars, but I imagine they have a lot more expenses producing a wine from all the way down there. AC4/14/19https://villasenorwines.com/
Villasenor2019Invitis Single VineyardCachapoalTempranilloRed86Toasty nose. Rather simple and boring on the palate although it’s generally balanced.AC4/22/23https://villasenorwines.com/
Villaseñor2015Family SelectionCuricoCabernet s.Red87Nice red, fruit forward, balanced. Nice daily drinker.CS9/1/19https://villasenorwines.com/
ViñamarNVUnique BrutCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling88Some herbal and floral notes on the nose. Palate is fruity but good acidity. Not as many or fine bubbles as Champagne but not too sweet like some Chilean Espumante. Charmat method used for all but one of their sparkling wines. AC4/3/22https://vinamar.cl/en/
ViñamarNVExtra BrutCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling87Not much on the nose. A bit yeasty and floral. Of course it's drier, less fruity than the Unique cuvee. Same amount of acid.AC4/3/22https://vinamar.cl/en/
ViñamarNVDemi-SecCasablancaChardonnay, Pinot NoirSparkling87similar nose to the Unique but it's a lot sweeter and fruitier on the palate.AC4/3/22https://vinamar.cl/en/
ViñamarNVRosé BrutCasablancaPinot NoirSparkling89100% Pinot Noir. Floral nose. Tangy fruity palate. Some tannic structure compared to their white versions. A little more savory than the other sparklings.AC4/3/22https://vinamar.cl/en/
ViñamarNVUnique MoscatoElquiMoscatelSparkling87sweet, fruit-ripe melon and honey. More carbonated and less sweet than a Moscato d'Asti though. A sparkling Muscat. Sweetest of all their sparkling lineup. Blend of Moscatel Rosado and AlejandriaAC4/3/22https://vinamar.cl/en/
Vinateros de Raiz2019JardineroCachapoalTouriga NacionalRed89A small producer. This is their first vintage of Touriga Nacional. Touriga Nacional 85% Malbec 15%. 14 months in French oak barrels. The nose is rather vegetal with some emerging floral notes mixed with red punch fruit. The palate is rather simple and middle of the road with medium acid, medium body and medium alcohol with spicy vegetal notes mixed with the dark red fruit. I don’t really get much from the oak. But the wine is building over the course of the meal. Overall, it reminded me of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. A food wine that won’t impress modern wine drinkers seeking rich, fruity wines to drink on their own.AC3/7/22https://vinaterosderaiz.cl/en/our-vineyard/
Vindemiatrix2018DestinoRapelCarmenereRed871,600 bottles made, 30 year old vines in Las Cabras; 14 months in 1st and 2nd use French oak. Dark opaque color. Nose is shy at first, but it slowly builds to dark red fruit, a bit of tomato leaf and chocolate. The palate is round and thick in feel with lots of milk chocolate, coffee, low acid and touch of heat on the back end. Right now, there’s too much of the chocolate and not enough fruit or acidity for me personally, but others might like this flavor profile better especially without food.AC9/19/21https://www.vindemiatrix.cl/
Vinifera2018Borja #1 Vino en TinajasItataPaisRed89Very small production. A friend of a friend who is an oenologue made with purchased grapes. Light and fruity. Red fruit. No oak as far I could detect. Clean and not as musty or rustic as some Pais can be. AC7/28/19N/A
Vinos de Patio2018GuindoItataCinsaultRed90This is a group of 5 different family-run producers in Guarilihue, the heart of Chilean Cinsault. Many of their vines are 100+ years old. They make 10 different wines. Obviously this one comes from a vineyard called El Guindo. 100% Cinsault. Minty herbal nose with some floral notes. Easy drinking fresh red fruit on the palate. This is more or less what I think of Itata Cinsault-light-bodied, fruit driven palate with good acidity and floral nose, with sometimes herbal, wild components.AC11/20/21http://www.vinosdepatio.cl/
Vinos G22017El AfanMaipoMenciaRed90This is a personal project from Viña El Principal winemaker Gonzalo Guzman experimenting with Spanish varietals in Pirque, Maipo. He does a Verdejo under the label El Principal and a Graciano, Mencia and Albariño under his G2 label. 2017 is the first vintage of his Mencia to be released. They use spontaneous fermentation with no added yeasts, 30% whole-cluster. It does have a grape bubble gum flavor to it along with spices reminding me of Big Red cinnamon chewing gum. Overall, very purple fruited on the nose and palate with spice and medium acid. Soft tannins.AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/vinos_g2/
Vinos G22019Albarino de Andes En RamaMaipoAlbarinoWhite89G2 has an Orange versión of Albarino too. This one has no wood contact. Unfiltered. This is a rather low acid, round, creamy version of Albarino. Ripe peaches and apples. Some honey. Gold yellow color.AC10/2/21https://www.instagram.com/vinos_g2/
Vistamar2014Sepia ReservaCachapoalCabernet S.Red87Crowd pleaser and a good value for quality.CS11/15/16http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016Sepia ReservaCasablancaChardonnayWhite93Hints of banana. Excellent for the price point. Balanced and tropical fruit.CS9/21/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016Sepia ReservaCasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite87Grassy notes with acidity will pair well with a variety of fish.CS3/30/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2015BrisaCentral ValleyCabernet S.Red84Simple. Fruity. Good basic entry wine.CS6/13/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2015BrisaCentral ValleyCarmenereRed84Simple. Bell pepper. Good group/party pleaser.CS6/13/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016BrisaCentral ValleyChardonnayWhite88Value wine and a patio sipper. Basic and good for the everyday.CS9/1/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016BrisaCentral ValleyMerlotRed83Juicy with a lot of fruit. Simple basic nothing very special here. Patio sipper.CS9/1/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016BrisaCentral ValleySauvignon Blanc
White88Citrus grapefruit lemon. CS9/1/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2017Late HarvestLimariMoscatelDessert
86Sweet dessert wine perfectly paired with cakes and cookies.CS4/18/18http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2015Gran ReservaMaipoCabernet S., Syrah
Red89Full bodied black fruit with medium tannin intensity.CS4/8/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2018Sepia ReservaMaipoCarmenereRed86Basic, liquid bell pepper note. Fruity.
CS8/17/19http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vistamar2016Sepia ReservaMaipoMerlotRed84Basic crowd pleaser good for patio back yard BBQs.CS3/30/17http://www.vistamar.cl/
Vita Vitis2017MauleAglianicoRed91Color is dark red. Nose is interesting with ripe blackberry and blueberry with some medicinal herbal notes and minerality. There's a little bit of milk chocolate. The palate is more dark cherry fruit with good acidity. A touch of spice. Smooth texture. No heat despite 14.8% alcohol. There’s some noticeable tannic structure without food but not as much as I’ve had in most Italian Aglianico. I've had mostly modern versions of Italian Aglianico, so I recall more spice, cinnamon and creaminess. Like many Chilean wines, this Aglianico straddles the more rustic and modern versions of the grape. It's not as modern, but it's certainly more tame than the rustic versions. AC5/19/20http://www.vitavitis.cl/
Vita Vitis2017MauleAglianicoRed92More fruity than its Italian cousins. Bold, fresh, acidic. Good balance of dark fruit and structure. Delicious under-the-radar find.CS4/18/20http://www.vitavitis.cl/
Vita Vitis (La Collezione)2017Ensamblaje TintoMauleBlendRed89Roughly a blend of Montepulciano 35% Sagrantino 15% Primitivo 20% Cesanese 20% Dolcetto 10%. A collaboration between Chilean Andres Sanchez and Italian winemaker Maurizio Castelli although both have worked in Italy before. This producer specializes in Italian varietals. He has also planted terrano (refosco), barbera, cannonou (grenache), and aglianico. Only about 1,200 bottles made. This comes off like some sort of old world Zinfandel. Dark fruit. Ripe. Kinda sweet, but not heavy or spicy. A bit floral. Low acid for an Italian style wine. AC2/16/20http://www.vitavitis.cl/
Viu Manent2017Vibo Vinedo CentenarioColchaguaBlendRed90Cabernet S. (65) and Malbec (35). Cabernet herbal green notes with some dark fruit notes from the Malbec. Pepper. Spice. Nice feel. Still fresh. The Cabernet vines are more than a 100 years old. AC2/14/20https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2015Gran ReservaColchaguaCarmenereRed89plum, medium acid, vanilla, solid and balancedAC8/29/17https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2014VIBO Punta del VientoColchaguaGSMRed8872% Grenache with Mourvedre and Syrah. Spicy savoury garrigue on the nose like Southern Rhone. Palate too oaky. licorice. red fruit. Maybe needs time to integrate. AC6/11/18https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2015San CarlosColchaguaMalbecRed88Reticent. herbaceous, plum. dark chocolate, some bitter oak. Savoury Malbec. Not fruity.AC10/4/17https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2016Single Vineyard San CarlosColchaguaMalbecRed90Nice fruit and some complexity, but needs more time to integrate and settle in.AC4/17/19https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2017Secreto de Viu ManentColchaguaMalbecRed89Drinking well now. Dark red fruit, some herbs and minerality on the nose. Chalky tannins. Fruit forward. Nice every day wine. AC4/17/19https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2017BoytrytisColchaguaSemillonDessert
87OK. A late harvest wine that has boytrytis (noble rot), but I don't get much of the typical notes you get from the boytrytis. Just a simple sweet and easy late harvest dessert wine. AC2/14/20https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2019Single Vineyard San CarlosColchaguaMalbecRed91100+ year old vines. Nose of purple fruit, floral notes and a bit of herbal notes. Palate is round and creamy with ripe purple fruit but still not a Mendozan level of ripness and darkness. There’s still some acid to keep it lighter and fresh.AC10/10/21https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2017Vibo Viñedo CentenarioColchaguaCabernet S., MalbecRed90Structred with lingering acidity. Oak age gives it classic wood, vanilla and all-spice characteristics. Concentrated dark fruit and a hint of leather. Dark color, thanks to the malbec.CS2/14/20https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2018SecretoColchaguaCarmenereRed89Classic good go-to carmenere. Plum, blackberry notes with a wiff of green bell pepper and earth.CS2/14/20https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2017Late HarvestColchaguaSemillonDessert
87Honey, pear and slightly tropical. Pronounced beeswax. Nice for after dinner or to have a sweet treat.CS3/28/20https://viumanent.cl/en/
Viu Manent2020Gran ReservaColchagua CostaChardonnayWhite90stainless steel aging. Some malolactic. Shy nose, but it was a bit too cold, so it will probably open up more. The palate shows ripe white fruit, with medium body and acid. A touch buttery, creamy and savory on the back end.AC1/13/23https://viumanent.cl/en/
Volcanes de Chile 2015TectoniaBio-BioPinot NoirRed90Light red fruit. Floral. Fresh. Intense cool fruit. Screw cap. About 10 bucks. Good bargain.AC8/20/19http://volcanesdechile.com/site/
Volcanes de Chile 2018Tectonia Central ValleyBlendRed90Blend of 3 different grapes from 3 different areas, but all with volcanic soil: 45% Grenache (Cachapoal), 40% Petite Sirah (Melipilla-Maipo), 15% Mourvedre (Cauquenes-Maule). It's almost a typical southern Rhone blend except exchanging Petite Sirah for Syrah. The nose is quite modern Rhone like with ripe dark berry fruit, dried herbs, licorice, and something reminding me of Big Red chewing gum. The palate has just enough acidity to go well with food with more of that ripe dark fruit, some minerality, ripe tannins, and no heat despite the 15% alcohol. This could pass for a modern Cotes du Rhone or Montsant from Spain although on the second day it felt a little more Petite Sirah like with plumy milk chocolate notes sticking out more. Bought for the equivalent of 7 dollars, so a great bargain.AC5/17/20http://volcanesdechile.com/site/
Volcanes de Chile 2017TectoniaMallecoChardonnayWhite91Trumao (volcanic) soils. Fermented and aged in oak barrels (10% new, 40% second use, 50% third use) on its lees for 11 months. 40% malolactic. Similar to the Ritual on the nose with a bit of oak on the nose, but there's more acidity and minerality on the palate. The volcanic soils give it a different type of minerality as opposed to the stoney minerality of most of the others.AC11/12/21http://volcanesdechile.com/site/
Von Siebenthal2015Parcela #7 Gran ReservaAconcaguaBlendRed9140% CS, 30% PV, 15% Merlot and 15% CF. Very Chilean nose. Green notes, tomato leaf. Cocoa. Palate has big fruit with a shot of acid on the attack. Alcohol in check despite the 15+%. Smooth modern Chilean wine, but not over the top. Located right next to Errazuriz. The owner is an Italian-Swiss lawyer. This is their entry level wine at around 12 bucks. A little richer than most at this price point but straddles the line between being over the top. AC2/14/20http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Von Siebenthal2013MonteligAcocanguaBlendRed9340% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Carmenere, 30% Petit Verdot; ripe, bright nose but with some tobacco, spice and veering towards dried fruit, showing some age. Similar on the palate..great silky, elegant feel. Bordeaux like. Just starting to enter tertiary stages but could develop more.AC6/15/22http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Von Siebenthal2016RococóAconcaguaCabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlotRose50Perhaps storage errors, will review in future. Undrinkable.CS2/17/20http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Von Siebenthal2017CarabantesAconcaguaSyrahRed98Not sure what else one expects. Nearly perfect in every category. Aroma super complex. Large bouquet. Dark fruits. Oak notes. Spice and pepper. Wiff of menthol and mint. Leather on the palate with an earthy characteristic like it was in some smoke. Von Siebenthal does it again.CS10/14/19http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Von Siebenthal2015CarabantesAconcaguaSyrahRed93Balanced fruit with complex aroma. Palate is structured with cassis, blackberry and a finish of pepper and red berry fruit.CS6/20/19http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Von Siebenthal2015Parcela #7AconguaCabernet s., merlot, cabernet franc, petit verdotRed94Balanced heavy full bodied red. Earthy, complex, oaked. Slightly smokey and chocolate notes.CS10/25/19http://vinavonsiebenthal.com/
Vultur2015GryphusColchaguaBlendRed89Mostly Carmenere (55) with some Petite Sirah (25) and Petit Verdot (20). Herbal nose. Dark and rich, but not too heavy. AC11/23/18https://www.vulturwines.cl/
Vultur2015CircusColchaguaMalbecRed89Floral. Decent acidity for a Malbec. Minerally back end. AC4/14/19https://www.vulturwines.cl/
Vultur2016GloboColchaguaPetit VerdotRed88Closed. Needs air and time. Light for Petit Verdot. AC11/25/18https://www.vulturwines.cl/
Vultur2015ColchaguaPetite SirahRed89100% Petite Sirah, 1290 bottles made. 100% aged in once used French oak. No fining or filtering. Compared to the Ridge Petite Sirah, this one has more influence from the oak on the nose and palate despite no new oak. There are more chocolate notes on the nose and vanilla on the palate. The wine is creamier overall. Less acidity and tannins. Still has dark fruit of Petite Sirah, but less of what I think of Petite Sirah, but that has mostly been defined by California Petite Sirah.AC8/21/21http://vulturwines.cl/
Vultur2013ColchaguaPetite SirahRed94Nice age, mature, round and soft. Deep flavors, black fruit bouquet. Earthy, wiff of smoke and grafite. Balanced oak barrel notes.CS9/24/19https://www.vulturwines.cl/
Wayra Vientos del Choapa2020ChoapaSyrahRed90typical meaty, bloody nose. Violets. Medium palate with some moderate tannic structure and medium+ acid.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/wayra_vientos_del_choapa/?hl=en
Wayra Vientos del Choapa2023ChoapaPetit VerdotRed90Herbal, bushy nose. Sweet herbs too. Tannic. Rather fruity on the palate compared to the nose. Dark berry notes. Medium+ acid. Needs time to soften up.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/wayra_vientos_del_choapa/?hl=en
Wayra Vientos del Choapa2018ChoapaPerdo JimenezDessert90Minty, honey floral nose. Velvety and smooth. No hard edges. Low acid but not cloying. There is a streak of acid on the back end.AC4/6/24https://www.instagram.com/wayra_vientos_del_choapa/?hl=en
Weicafe Curauma2015CasablancaPinot NoirRed90Small production. 6,000 bottles only. Bright Minerally. Earthy. Floral. red cherry fruit. Easy drinkingAC11/25/18http://www.curaumawines.cl/index.php
Weicafe Curauma2018CasablancaSauvignon BlancWhite88Minerally. Fresh and clean. Apple. Could use more acidity.AC11/25/18http://www.curaumawines.cl/index.php
Weichafe2021CasablancaSyrahRed– Juicy, high acid with some savory notes. Definitely a cool climate style Syrah.AC10/1/22http://www.curaumawines.cl/index.php
Weichafe2018MarichiweuMaipoBlendRedBlend of Cabernet S., Carmenere, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Syrah. Red fruit. Acidic. Spicy. Tobacco. Tannic.AC10/1/22http://www.curaumawines.cl/index.php
Weichafe Curauma Wines 2014MarichiweuCasablancaPinot NoirFortified20% alcohol. Lighter in color than most fortified wines and the lighter bodied and higher in acidity than most, which makes sesnse since it’s made from Pinot Noir. However, there is some heat on the nose and palate.AC11/20/21http://curaumawines.cl/wp/en/home-3/
Weon2016MauleCarignanRed89Red berry fruit, earthy, floral with savoury herbs. Not as bright and fresh as many Carignan from Maule though.AC2/25/19https://www.facebook.com/aupamaitia/
Wildmakers2016SabaticoMauleBlendRed9051% Grenache 49% Carignan; 80-year-old bush vine ungrafted Carignan. Dry farmed. Natural yeast. Unfilitered. Neutral barrel aging. The nose initially has a rush of pretty red fruit and then some savory herbs, spice, cinnamon. The palate has tart red fruit, even a little grapefruit skin. Otherwise, no hard edges. Medium bodied. This definitely feels more Carignan dominated despite having 51% Grenache. A nice food wine. Only around $13. AC7/17/20https://www.wildmakers.com/en/home/
Wildmakers2016TeluricoMauleCarignanRed91dark purple, youthful color but not opaque. Definite caramel, oak on the nose. Medium+ acid. Medium+ tannins. But still round. Juicy. Ripe. It spends 25-30 months in French oak. AC3/15/22https://www.facebook.com/Wildmakers/
Wildmakers2016TelúricoMauleCarignanRed90Feels very Maule, natural wine like. Good acidity. Moderate tannins. Fruit driven, but still somewhat tannic. Can age another 3-5 years. AC9/18/23https://wildmakers.com/
William Cole2015Columbine Special ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Cherry, strawberry, earth, touch floral. spice. Some structure. Steal at $5-9AC8/6/17http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2015Columbine Special ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Earthy. Red fruit. Similar to previous notes. Still good value. AC12/2/17http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2015BillCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Some earthy herbal floral notes on the nose. Ripe fruit. Some citrus. A bit darker and riper than the Grand Reserve is. There's more oak in this too. Some caramel notes. A touch bitter. I'm not sure this is worth the extra 8-10 dollars unless you prefer the darker and oakier style. AC1/7/19http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2016Columbine Special ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Consistently good bargain Pinot. Earthy nose with fruity fresh palate. AC3/16/18http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2017Grand ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed89The name for this wine changed slightly. It's no longer a single vineyard I guess. Still same solid quality Pinot for the price of 7-8 dollars. I found it a little more oaky and bitter than previous vintages. Otherwise, similar to previous notes.AC9/29/18http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2017Grand ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed91Herbal citrus nose. Palate was silky smooth with red fruit, mint, flowers. AC12/4/18http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2017Gran ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Touch of spice and herbs. Some tannins to resolve. Got better on the second day. More integrated and not has heavy. Not the best showing for this cuvee. I've had better ones in the past. AC8/10/19http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2018Gran Reserva Edicion AniversarioCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Hightone red fruit with spice. Light feel with more red fruit on the palate, some spice and grapefruit rind. Solid Pinot as usual.AC12/17/19http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2019Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed89Still young. Takes time to open up some. Mineral and lots of spice on the nose with bright red fruit on the palate and a little spice. Also something a little bitter on the end. Seems higher in alcohol than normal. Had without food, so this would be covered up by the food easily.AC4/10/20http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2020Grand ReserveCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Smoky, dusty and spicy nose with some ripe red fruit in the background. The palate is light+ bodied, round with dark cherries and a little spice on the back end. Medium acid. Overall, it’s consistent with my past experiences with this wine. You get the earthier savory side of Pinot on the nose, but you get the Pinot fruit on the palate in an easy-drinking package.AC6/9/21http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Cole2018Edición Aniversario Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed88Lighter colored Pinot. Lighter bodied. Notes of sour cherry with hints of strawberry.CS3/29/20https://www.williamcolevineyards.com/
William Cole2016BillCasablancaSauvignon blancWhite95Classic Chilean sauvignon blanc. Acidic, enticing, interesting. Herbal, cut grass, citric, lemon zest notes. William Cole does it again with 90+.CS11/22/19https://www.williamcolevineyards.com/
William Cole2021Gran ReservaCasablancaPinot NoirRed90Compared to the Casa Marin next to it, this comes off as fruity and easy drinking. Red fruit. Medium+ acid. Hard to beat the 7 dollar price.AC4/9/22http://williamcolevineyards.cl/new_site/en/
William Fevre2017Espino Reserva EspecialCentral ValleyCarmenereRed88The last two vintages of this were labeled Pirque but this one was labeled Central Valley, so I guess they've sourced their grapes from other locations for this one. Typical green Carmenere nose, coffee. Medium intensity. Overally, just lacking vibrancy and freshness. Only 7 dollars, so something that you can drink with all types of food during the middle of the week.AC5/22/19https://williamfevrechile.com/
William Fevre2016EspinoMaipoCarmenereRed89Cool fruit and minerality on the nose. Palate fruit forward, smooth, but lacking punch. AC12/18/18https://williamfevrechile.com/
William Fevre2018EspinoMaipoPinot NoirRed88According to the label this is from Maipo and I've never seen/had a Pinot from Maipo before. It's probably high elevation in Pirque to keep it cool enough. Ultimately, it's a little more modern than most Chilean Pinot. Some minerality, red fruit, easy, round. Simple. AC3/11/20https://williamfevrechile.com/
William Fevre2015EspinoPirque MaipoCarmenereRed92Nice nose. Herbal aspects-tobacco, but with a burst of ripe berry fruit that many carmenere lack on the nose. Palate has ripe red fruit, good acidity, cinnamon spice. Elegant style. Less than 10 dollars. AC2/28/18https://williamfevrechile.com/
William FevreNVQuino BlancMallecoBlendSparkling92This is the same William Fevre more famous for making Chablis, but not many know they make wine in Chile too. 50/50 Chardonnay-Pinot Noir, traditional method. Fermented in French oak. More than 20 months on lees. Floral and fresh on the nose with a touch of breadiness. Good acid up front and lots of bubbles, but not the finest bubbles. Fruity mid-palate. Savory back-end. Overall, a complete sparkling.AC3/30/23https://williamfevrechile.com/
William Fevre2022Espino Reserva EspecialMaipoChardonnayWhite90The nose is pretty and fruit driven. Fresh and ripe white fruit like pears and white peaches with a touch of citrus and minerality. The palate is medium-light bodied with medium+ acidity with upfront fruit and a salty lingering finish. It’s not Chablis with its minerality and often higher acid, but it’s far from oaky, buttery California Chardonnay too.AC9/24/24https://williamfevrechile.com/

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