At a glance

Producer

Viña Maquis

Region

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc (94%), Cabernet Sauvignon (6%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Black cherry, graphite, green peppercorn, some herbal notes with firm tannins and sage undertones

Evolution: Will gain bouquet complexity including tobacco, leather, and earth nuances over next 5 years

At peak: Supple, complex, with smoky, spicy layers and balanced acidity supporting extended finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high acidity providing freshness and balance

Tannins

Firm and gripping but refined

Alcohol

Around 14.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage date, consistent with premium Chilean Cabernet Franc

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2029

Optimal window

2022 to 2031

Current status

Approaching optimal drinkability with good cellaring potential

Current condition

Shows well with well-integrated tannins and evolving complexity

This wine’s firm tannins and vibrant acidity from Cabernet Franc plus a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon give it strong structure for aging. The 2016 vintage in Colchagua was excellent, allowing for extended maturation. The current window reflects both early drinking potential and longer-term evolution into tertiary flavors.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, rich game birds, hearty stews, and dishes with herbal accents like rosemary or thyme; complements aged cheeses well.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Viña Maquis implements water conservation techniques, uses solar energy for some operations, and employs integrated pest management to reduce chemical use. Packaging uses lightweight bottles and recyclable materials.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, Viña Maquis has embraced multiple sustainability practices aligned with industry standards. Their efforts in water conservation, energy use, and packaging reflect good environmental stewardship. The carbon footprint varies based on market but is mitigated locally.