About 300 kilometers south of Santiago de Chile, we find the Carta Vieja winery in the heart of the Maule region. Today, the seventh generation of the del Pedregal family is at the helm of one of the oldest wineries in Chile. Their vineyards cover 550 hectares in the Valle del Maule, where they plant a wide variety of grape varieties. Within the range, there are three distinct lines: the Varietals, which includes this Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserva, and Gran Reserva. Millions of bottles are produced annually for us to enjoy worldwide.
Towards the end of April, the ripe Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are harvested by hand. They are transported almost immediately to the modern winery, where they undergo a five-day cold maceration. Temperature-controlled fermentation takes place at 22 to 26 degrees Celsius, with the must being pumped over every three days. The wine is aged for a full 12 months in French oak barrels, half of which are new.
The Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva shimmers cherry red in the glass, its aromas instantly releasing. Strong aromas of cassis, black cherry, coffee, and spicy notes seduce you from the first sip. The palate is wonderfully concentrated with ripe red fruit, toffee, and chocolate. A full-bodied red wine with a long finish.
