Robert Parker highlights Viña Carmen among Chile’s most innovative wine producers
Critic Matthew Luczy praised the winery’s commitment to varietal diversity, the reinterpretation of historic vineyards, and the crafting of wines with strong identity, spotlighting wines such as Gold 2022 and DO Florillón #6, both awarded 94 points.
Matthew Luczy, who recently took on the role of South American wine critic for Robert Parker – Wine Advocate, visited Chile at the end of last year to taste the latest vintages from across the country. In his report “Chile: Overall Thoughts and a Journey Through the Central Valley,” Luczy recognized Viña Carmen as one of the most outstanding producers, noting its contemporary vision and experimental spirit.
The critic praised the evolution of the winery’s portfolio and its focus on origin-driven wines, stating: “This progress is best illustrated in the impressive array of DO bottlings, which showcase old vineyards from both estate and purchased fruit, ranging from Maipo to Itata. The Delanz range offers a bit more textural richness without sacrificing clarity, and the stalwart Gold bottling has also been gradually evolving toward even more mineral‐driven persistence.”
Among the top-rated wines:
· Carmen Gold 2022 – 94 points
Carmen’s flagship wine was described as “a vibrant, contemporary expression of this classic Chilean bottling.” On the palate, it is velvety, rich, and refined, with a deep, resonant finish and a clear-cut mineral core framed by elegant tannins.
· Carmen DO Florillón #6 – 94 points
This flor-aged Semillón, made with minimal intervention, was highlighted for its “fantastic nose” and its vibrant, tangy, and nuanced finish. “This was a clear highlight among the roster at Carmen,” noted Luczy. Only 1,150 bottles were produced.
· Delanz Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 – 93 points
From the hillsides of Alto Jahuel in the Maipo Valley, this Cabernet—blended with 15% Cabernet Franc and aged 18 months in French oak— was praised for its precision, mineral intensity, and elegant tannins. “A beautiful example of contemporary Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon of mountainous origin,” said the American critic.
· DO Quijada Semillón 2021 – 93 points
Sourced from vines planted in 1957 in Apalta and fermented in concrete eggs, this wine was praised by Luczy for its dense texture and refined tension. “This beautifully captures the textural breadth of Semillón yet presents it with a lovely, high‐toned verve,” he stated.
· DO Matorral Chileno 2022 – 92 points
A blend of Garnacha, Carignan, and País, fermented with whole clusters, offering a juicy, vibrant, and slightly rustic profile with hints reminiscent of high-quality Beaujolais.
· Delanz Carmenere 2023 – 92 points
From the Apalta Valley, this wine stands out for its fresh, mineral character and an unconventional take on the variety.
These recognitions, awarded by one of the world’s most influential wine publications, reaffirm Viña Carmen’s position as a benchmark for origin-driven Chilean wines—blending heritage and innovation with a distinctive style.