About the Winery …
Yet another Chilian Winery with French roots. The winery was established in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet. Alexandra is from the renowned Marnier Lapostolle family, that has for several generations dedicated itself to making high-quality wines and spirits. In other words, French winemaking philosophy with the magnificent terroirs of Chile. Today Charles-Henri de Bournet, from the 7th generation of the family, is at the helm of the Domaine.
About the Vineyards …
The Apalta Valley is a horseshoe shaped valley surrounding the vineyards, near the city of Santa Cruz, and just over 100 miles southwest of Santiago and benefits from a north-south exposure, something rare in Chile. The vineyards are planted on very ancient soils originating from the Cretaceous period, featuring granitic and granodioritic material, with angular stones and underlying clayey subsoils on the hills. The flatter areas, next to the Tinguiririca River are composed of colluvial and some older alluvial material courtesy of the river.
About the wine …
This is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Carmenere, and is aged in French Barrels for 9 months with 59% in new oak and the balance in second and third use. Almost 12,000 cases produced.
Enticing aromas of violets, blueberries, olives, chocolate and just a hint of herbs.
The palate is smooth and inviting with obvious depth and complexity. Interwoven layers of blackberries, blueberries, dark cherries, chocolate, and plums, with just a hint of dark raspberries and spices.
Excellent balance with everything in place, and just a hint of sweetness on a long finish. Tannins still resolved in their duties.
This still has 3 – 5 years before hitting its peak.
Winery recommends well-seasoned dishes with a red wine demiglace such as short ribs and angus beef to pair with this wine. I would consider Filet Mignon, Spaghetti and meatballs, Duck, or Turkey.
Vine to Table 