Carmen Winery was founded in 1850 by Christian Lanz, who named it after his wife Carmen. Carmen is the oldest winery in Chile. Today, they utilize the latest winemaking techniques and are one of the largest players in both quality and quantity of Chilean origin. All grapes come from their own vineyards, prioritizing quality over quantity. To achieve this, Carmen Vineyards has restricted yields. This results in wines that are more powerful and full-bodied than many Chilean wines. Moreover, the wines truly taste like the grapes they are made from; they are uniquely authentic. Anyone who tastes them will be immediately impressed by the vast potential of this promising wine country.
The Cabernet grapes are grown in the Colchagua Valley, in a temperate climate on beautiful soil rich in river clay and pebbles. The grapes undergo a cold maceration of no less than ten days, giving this red wine extra fruit and color. Because the grapes are perfectly ripe, a five-week fermentation was possible, giving it considerable power and intensity. Eighty percent of the wine is aged for ten months in French and American oak barrels. The remainder remains in stainless steel. A dash of Carmenère gives this Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon a subtle hint of pepper and a light spiciness.
The Cabernet Sauvignon is clearly present, with notes of cassis and blueberries on the nose, a hint of mint, and classic Cabernet aromas like pencil shavings and cedar. Yes, this Carmen Premier Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon is truly delicious! The palate is also complete, smooth, yet quite full-bodied with notes of black fruit, cherries, a touch of paprika, and wood. In short, a delicious wine, and for this price, we can confidently call it outstanding.
