Winemaker Notes
A blend of Mediterranean varieties that have adapted very well to the climate and soils in Colchagua. 100% of the grapes come from the El Olivar Vineyard. The blend is based on Grenache, which contributes fruit, perfume, and aromatic intensity along with a silky palate and tremendous acidity; Mourvèdre, which lends the central structure and aromatic complexity; and Syrah, which helps bring the other two varieties together while enriching the palate with a bit of sweetness and minerality.
A refreshing wine with tremendous personality and a versatility that makes it perfect served slightly chilled (16ºC) with game birds, rabbit stew, or pork tenderloin.
Blend: 72% Grenache, 17% Mourvedre, 11% Syrah
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
Well-regarded for intense and exceptionally high quality red wines, the Colchagua Valley is situated in the southern part of Chile’s Rapel Valley, with many of the best vineyards lying in the foothills of the Coastal Range.
Heavy French investment and cutting-edge technology in both the vineyard and the winery has been a boon to the local viticultural industry, which already laid claim to ancient vines and a textbook Mediterranean climate.
The warm, dry growing season in the Colchagua Valley favors robust reds made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Malbec and Syrah—in fact, some of Chile’s very best are made here. A small amount of good white wine is produced from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.