2009 Chile

Loma Larga is owned by the Díaz family, whose interest in wine was noted in the Paris wine exhibition of 1889. With the intention of keeping the family’s wine tradition alive, the family studied the climate and soil of their Casablancan estate, Loma Larga and, firmly believing in its potential, began planting vines in 1999. They are now recognised as one of the best producers of cool climate red wines in Chile.

It is really interesting to find a parcel of slightly more mature Syrah from the New World and this example from the Casablanca Valley is quite fascinating. The black cherry fruit is complemented by notes of wood smoke and bacon fat while the tannins are supple and refined. It is an elegant wine with a long finish.

Located in the Maipo Valley, in Chile's central zone, Puente Alto was recognized over twenty years ago as offering ideal conditions for growing the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. It is here that 85 hectares have been reserved exclusively for Almaviva, the joint venture of Mouton- Rothschild and Concha y Toro. Characteristic features of Puente Alto include its stony soil, cold, rainy winters, and the hot days and cool nights of its summers. The Almaviva vineyard is tended with meticulous care from pruning to harvest. A revolutionary underground drip irrigation system has been installed, making it possible to deliver the precise amount of water that each vine needs with a constant concern for quality. 

2009 was an exceptionally easy year for the region - a perfect flowering, a hot and dry summer, cool nights and a healthy, juicy harvest have made for what the property describe as a pure, focussed, elegant wine with lovely, smooth tannins, a silky texture and exceptional balance.