CARMEN GRAN RESERVA CARMENERE IS AWARDED 90 POINTS BY WINE SPECTATOR

March, 2019.- Viña Carmen’s Gran Reserva Carmenere 2017 received 90 points from Wine Spectator, regarded as one of the most influential publications in the global wine industry. Kim Marcus, Spectator’s Senior Editor and taster for Chile, commented on the wine: “This direct version is filled with rich herbal nuances fashioned to fit precise plum and red berry flavors, all backed by zesty acidity and a minerally finish. Drink now through 2023”.

Sourced from El Peñasco vineyard, located in Carmen’s Apalta estates, the granitic soils with considerable moisture to preserve its tannings and acidity, provide good depth and structure, to develop fully ripen Carmenere’s distinctive character and structure. The grapes are handpicked and carefully selected before crushing, undergoing a period of cold maceration to ensure maximum retention of primary fruit flavors and color extraction. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks, with a 40-day total period of maceration. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 10 months and, after bottling, it is aged in Carmen’s cellars for an additional 2-month period prior to its release.

Carmen’s winemaker Emily Faulconer creates this 100% Carmenere, a concentrated intense dark purple color wine. Its nose is rich and very honest to the variety, showing ripe berries, sweet spices and tobacco. Soft touches of spicy anise and paprika add complexity. The palate is generous, with supple texture and sweet tannins that are smooth and concentrated, allowing a wine with persistency and great length.