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Carmenère found its way from France to Chile in the 19th century where, today, the lion’s share of this grape variety grows. Most Carmenère wine comes from the diverse Central Valley area that runs north to south along the Andes foothills. The Pacific Ocean to the west moderates the highest temperatures giving balance to the grapes. This lengthy tranche of vineyard land encompasses several sub-regions that turn out different styles of this vibrant red with a spot called Apalta noted for premium Carmenère. Interestingly, this grape shares many similarities with Merlot and was mistaken for this Bordeaux grape until 1994 when DNA analysis revealed its identity!

Quality Chilean red with velvety dark fruit and herbaceous notes.

Carmenère

It may come as a surprise that Carmenère, the signature red of Chile, is originally from southwest France. This grape thrives in the South American country where ambitious Chilean winemakers have coaxed out this grape’s supple red and black fruit and pleasing herbaceous in an array of reds. Whether a daily easy-drinking table wine or a top-tier deep and complex style, there’s a Carmenère for all tastes.

Winemaking in Chile goes back several centuries but it’s emerged as one of South America’s top wine-producing countries relatively recently. A climate that’s perfect for viticulture and ambitious, visionary winemakers have helped fueled this emergence. Cabernet Sauvignon loves the country’s warmth for full ripening plus cool ocean and mountain breezes for tart balance. As such, Chile exports copious amounts of good-value Cabernet Sauvignon produced largely in the sprawling Central Valley. Some of the finest, cellar-worthy styles come out of Aconcagua in the northern reaches of Chile where complex full-bodied, highly tannic and tart styles are the foremost wines. This region is also renowned for its powerful Bordeaux-style blends.

Ripe dark fruit, herbaceous hints, and powerful structure in a finessed red.

Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is Chile’s most-planted grape with an exciting plethora of styles to choose from. An ideal growing environment and skilled winemaking results in everything from fresh and fruity, crowd-pleasing table wines to age-worthy, layered styles that are among the finest Cabernet Sauvignons in the world.

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Wines of Central Valley Chile

Carmenère

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