One of the great wineries of the world, Vina Almaviva is a famed partnership that began back in 1997. During that time the Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA, and Eduardo Guilisasti Tagle, Chairman of Viña Concha y Toro S.A., sealed a partnership agreement with a view to create an exceptional Franco-Chilean wine called Almaviva. Produced under the joint technical supervision of both partners, the first vintage had great acclaim upon its launch in 1998. The rest has been history.
For years I have loved these wines that have great cellaring potential and also show so beautifully upon release. I think that for those who have never tried the Vina Almaviva, you are in for a massive treat. The wines show incredible terroir and a wonderful veil of tension. This blend captures the art of truly exceptional Carmenère. A varietal that has been a shining star for Chile, this wine really is one of the finest expressions of Carmenère that you will find. Although the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, Carmenère adds the lovely herbal tones and scorched earth accents to this formidable wine.
While pretty approachable considering their youth, Almaviva wines show best after several hours of air. I was blown away with the 2020 Vina Almaviva (OB, 98) which has 24% Carmenère blended in and is absolutely thrilling to savor even right now. This is nothing short of a masterpiece blend that has a long life ahead of it. Learn more about this famed winery at http://www.almavivawinery.com/en/ Here is my review of the new 2020 Almaviva.
2020 Vina Almaviva Red Wine- Coming from this very dry vintage, the 2020 Vina Almaviva is a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon with 24% Carmenere and small portions Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that were all stored for 20 months in 100% new French oak. Roasted dates and black currants all fill the nose, with wet gravel, cigar box and yellow bell pepper notes that give this insanely good aromatic range. The palate is plush and concentrated, with a beautiful verve and lush texture. Finishing exceedingly long with dense dark fruits, sweet pipe tobacco and graphite, this is sensational wine to enjoy now and over the next twenty years. Drink 2022-2042- 98