Deep ruby, purple color; black cherry, plum, blackberry, raspberry, chocolate, white pepper, herbs, allspice, herbaceous on the nose and palate.
Dry; silky tannins, affable acidity (3.64 pH). Smooth with subtle complexity and some structure. Easy drinker. Significant herbaceous-green notes, which is a signature of carménère. Good or bad, depending on your palate’s proclivities, but this is impressive example of Chile’s signature red grape. Reasonably priced and capable of some aging—as this tasting at five years old demonstrated. 14.5% ABV
Domaines Barons de Rothschild expanded to South America in 1988, becoming the first French vinegrowing/winemaking investment in modern Chile. Los Vascos is located in Cañeten Valley, a closed valley in the central zone of Chile, 25 miles from the Pacific, part of Chile’s famed Valle de Colchagua. With 5,400 acres—1,300 planted in wine vines—Los Vascos is the largest vineyard in the Cañeten Valley of Colchagua.
There are significant advantages to the Cañeten Valley. It is located in high foothills of coastal mountains, above the altitude where pests and diseases can live. The altitude engenders diurnal shift—plenty of sun and heat during the day, much cooler temperatures at night, a classic formula for quality wine. In addition, the mountains shield the vineyards from air and water pollution.
The website comments: “Many properties were visited and many wines were tasted before choosing Los Vascos, because of its location near the ocean and its exceptional soil. Along with ideal weather conditions, Los Vascos benefits from intense exposure to the sun, adequate water sources, semi-arid soils and little risk of frost. At an average of 130 m [430 feet] above sea level and at just 40 kilometres [25 miles] from the Pacific Ocean, the microclimate of Viña Los Vascos has everything to produce fine wines.”
Los Vascos Cromas Carménère Gran Reserva, Valle de Colchagua, Chile 2019 is quality carménère with its easy drinking, pleasant tannins, and herbaceous notes that some may enjoy while others think it is too green. This does not veer near into herbaceous hell, but the green is there. Works well with wide variety of meats, as a result. Pair with lamb, especially lamb prepared with mint, cilantro, or oregano. Slow-cook pork ribs. Beef empanadas. Grilled meats in general, including wild game—venison, boar. Hearty, rich, savory stews. Cheese—aged cheddar, blue cheese, parmesan, gouda. parmigiano-reggiano, manchego, gruyère, fresh goat cheese. $19-22