Vina Vik A Carmenere 2022

Cellar for 10 years or more. Decant for up to an hour before serving. Carmenere “A” is made from 85% of the Bordeaux varietal, along with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Syrah. The fruits were harvested from Cachapoal Valley in Chile, a land of extraordinarily diverse microclimates and great complexity. It is a vivid dark red, showcasing a powerful nose of blackberry and plum, infused with hints of bell pepper, toast, and capsicum. Vina Vik released its first wine in 2009 and was founded by the esteemed Alexander Vik. He is aided in the cellar by Cristián Vallejo, a native Chilean winemaker with experience from Bordeaux. Their slice of Chile covers 12 valleys, cooled by winds that flow from the mighty Andes mountains. On the palate, “A” is an elegant, textured Carmenere, with taut acids and dusty, finely-textured tannins, which will both soften after some time breathing. Hints of tart cherry, herbaceousness and leather underpin bold and well-rounded dark fruit flavours. They reflect the nose, with notes of blackberry, cassis and plum. The wine was aged in oak barrels for 14 months, giving it an elegant oaky backbone. The finish is long and dripping with delicious notes of earth and fruit. Consider pairing this Carmenere with hard cheeses, such as Cheddar, herb-coated rack of lamb, or beef stew.

Price: £20.75 from 8wines UK