2020 CARMENERE, Limited Edition, Perez Cruz. Maipo, Chile

European drinkers may not have really understood the huge variation between vineyard areas in Chile. Much of the high volume, affordable wines come from large, flat, dry and sunny valleys that can look much the same. But high quality comes from more interesting ‘terroir’ and this example is in the foothills of the Andes at altitude up to 500m.

Carmenère plus 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured for 14 months in French oak barrels (50% new each year).

From UK agent, Hallgarten:
“Perez Cruz is a family owned boutique winery located in the Alto Maipo. Their estate covers 250 hectares of vines planted in one of the most sought after areas for growing premium … red wines. Their eco-friendly winery was built by award winning architect Jose Cruz Ovalle. Its wooden roof and natural light allow thermal isolation and free air flow circulation, making it one of the most unique wineries in the world.”

Powerful and intense; in the style of a classic new world Cabernet, but with the spicy, herbal twist that marks it out as clearly Carmenère.