Carmen D.O. Loma Seca 2023 scores 95 points, the highest rating James Suckling has ever given a Cinsault

Likewise, Carmen D.O. Florillón #7, with 97 points, has positioned itself as the Best Semillon of the year.

In his latest report on Chilean wines, James Suckling recognized Viña Carmen with eight high-end wines that scored 93 points or more. The report highlights the winery’s work in rescuing origin, applying precise winemaking, and crafting wines with a true sense of place.

Four of these wines —all part of the Carmen D.O. line— stood out with top scores, consolidating the project’s leadership in the exploration of Chile’s most unique terroirs. This line focuses on showcasing some of Chile’s most distinctive origins through limited production wines that highlight unique origins and are made alongside local growers.

Carmen D.O. Loma Seca 2023, from the Itata Valley, scored 95 points, the highest rating James Suckling has ever awarded to a Cinsault:

“A lovely Cinsault that’s stony on the palate and more brambly on the nose. White pepper, grapefruit, ripe raspberries, agave and charcuterie compressed by firm, chalky tannins. A tight and linear finish without abundant fruit. Irresistible. Delicious now. Why hold?”

Carmen D.O. Florillón #7, from the Apalta Valley, scored 97 points, positioning itself as the best Semillon from Chile and the highest-rated Semillon of the year worldwide by James Suckling:

“Wow, this is a very extreme wine. Radical is the word (…) Such steely energy, with tangy sourdough and nut flavors throughout. Only 11.5% alcohol, with a mouthwatering finish full of salinity. The seventh release for this NV Semillon that’s mainly from 2022 and 2023.”

Also awarded 95 points was Carmen D.O. Matorral Chileno 2023, a red blend of Garnacha, Carignan, and País from the Maule Valley, described as:

“Wow, such freshness, pepperiness and verve. This year the tannins are on the stony side: austere yet pristine, honest and full of vibrations. Really succulent and bright. It has Nebbiolo tannins, Pinot-like etherealness and light Carignan succulence and freshness.”

Carmen D.O. Quijada 2022, from Apalta, also scored 95 points and ranked among the top Semillons in Chile:

“Bone dry and saline on the palate, with a medium body, a creamy texture and crunchy, incisive acidity. Long finish with salt and minerals. Fermented in concrete tanks and then aged 10 months on the lees in concrete eggs. Really gastronomic.”

From the Delanz line, a contemporary take on Carmen’s finest origins, the three wines were awarded 93 points:

• Carmen Delanz Chardonnay 2024, from the Limarí Valley, was noted for its vibrant acidity, mineral character, and salty finish.
• Carmen Delanz Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, from Alto Jahuel in the Maipo Valley, was praised for its structure, chalky tannins, and mature red fruit expression. Enjoyable now, with aging potential.
• Carmen Delanz Carmenère 2023, from Apalta, was highlighted for its firm, expressive character, uncommon for the variety.

Also scoring 93 points was Carmen Brut Nature, a traditional-method sparkling wine made from 87% Chardonnay and 13% Pinot Noir. Aged for 10 months in used barrels and 30 months on the lees, it was praised for its freshness, structure, and unique personality within the portfolio.