2008 Almaviva

The 2008 Almaviva was the first wine made after Michel Friou took over the winery. A Bordeaux-style red combining Cabernet Sauvignon with 26% Carménère and 8% Cabernet Franc from Puente Alto, Maipo, harvested in a cold, dry year according to Friou, it spent 19 months in French oak, two-thirds new. Deep pomegranate red in the glass. The lovely, delicate nose delivers dry figs and dates, menthol and an evolving layer of sweet spices. A ripe red that develops a concentrated liqueur-ish, slightly dry feel. The original structure has achieved a new sense of balance that lingers in the mouth.

The 2008 Almaviva, a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Carmenere and 8% Cabernet Franc aged in new French oak for 18 months, has a Bordeaux-like bouquet with crisp blackberry, graphite and mint aromas that are well defined. The palate has a smooth, supple entry and is more rounded and harmonious than the 2009, with a pure, pastille-like finish that perhaps does not possess the complexity or “meatiness” of the succeeding vintage. Nevertheless, this is a fine Almaviva. Drink 2013-2020. The collaboration between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Vina Concha y Toro caused waves back in the late 1990s, a token of recognition for the progress of Chilean wines from one of Bordeaux’s grandees. Since the debut in 1998 it has achieved acclaim from around the world. Importer: Diageo Chateau & Estates, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 299-2600

The 2008 Almaviva, a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Carmenere and 8% Cabernet Franc aged in new French oak for 18 months, has a Bordeaux-like bouquet with crisp blackberry, graphite and mint aromas that are well defined. The palate has a smooth, supple entry and is more rounded and harmonious than the 2009, with a pure, pastille-like finish that perhaps does not possess the complexity or “meatiness” of the succeeding vintage. Nevertheless, this is a fine Almaviva. Drink 2013-2020. Dec 2012, www.robertparker.com