Carmen DO Matorral Chileno 2023 Named “Hidden Gem” by Wine Enthusiast

Additionally, the renowned U.S. publication awarded Carmen Gold 2022 with 93 points.

Viña Carmen has once again been recognized by Wine Enthusiast, one of the world’s most influential wine publications. In its latest edition, the magazine highlighted three of the winery’s labels, emphasizing their diversity, identity, and consistent winemaking.

The flagship wine Carmen Gold 2022 received 93 points, solidifying its position as one of Chile’s great Cabernet Sauvignons. Sourced from the Alto Jahuel vineyard in the Maipo Valley, it was praised by Wine Enthusiast’s South America reviewer, Jesica Vargas, for its elegance and balance:

“Sourced from the winery’s Alto Jahuel vineyard in the Maipo Valley, this Cabernet offers a fresh bouquet of herbal notes that repeat on the palate, along with flavors of juicy red plums. It has elegant tannins, delivering a balanced and polished profile.”

Meanwhile, Carmen DO Matorral Chileno 2023 earned 91 points and was named a Hidden Gem, a category that spotlights wines with authenticity and strong character. This wine is part of the DO series — a tribute to the collaboration between the winery and small Chilean growers, producing limited-edition wines that reflect the identity of each territory, its people, heritage, and winemaking traditions. Sourced from the dry-farmed Maule region, this Garnacha-led blend was recognized for its unique expression:

“Coming from the Maule Valley, this blend of Garnacha, with a small portion of Carignan and País exhibits a fresh and spicy character. It opens with floral notes, leading to a generous palate filled with berry flavors, enhanced by cinnamon and clove. Vibrant acidity carries the flavors through a satisfying finish.”

Finally, Carmen DO Quijada 2021, a Semillón from the Apalta Valley and also part of the DO line, received 91 points, standing out for its freshness and depth, and positioning itself among the best of this variety in Chile.

“The DO series highlights wines sourced from small selected vineyards in the Colchagua, Maule and Itata valleys. This Sémillon presents aromas of white fruit with delicate hints of spice. The palate mirrors the nose, featuring flavors of vanilla and pear, complemented by a vibrant acidity that adds tension and elevates the long fruit-driven finish.”

These recognitions reaffirm Viña Carmen’s leadership in crafting wines of origin, diversity, and a deep connection to Chile’s winemaking heritage.