At a glance

Producer

Almaviva

Region

Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$275 - $350 (750ml, retail, 2024 pricing from Wine-Searcher average)

Tasting profile

Rich dark fruits (blackberry, cassis), subtle cassis leaf, cedar, graphite and tobacco emerging; firm but ripe tannins and freshness from balanced acidity.

Evolution: Fruit will integrate further with notes of earth, leather, and savory herbs emerging over the next 5-10 years. Tannins continue to soften and round out.

At peak: At peak, expect a complex layered wine with polished tannins, deep dark fruit, nuanced spice, and refined mineral and savory notes. Very elegant and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm, ripe, well-structured tannins typical of premium Maipo Valley Cabernet Sauvignon blends, beginning to soften but still present

Alcohol

Around 14-14.5%, well integrated

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage given top producer, excellent vintage, and varietal structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2049

Optimal window

2025 to 2052

Current status

Needs aging to fully develop but approachable with decanting

Current condition

The 2017 vintage is still young, showing primary fruit and tannins starting to soften but benefits from careful decanting before drinking now.

The peak window (2028-2035) corresponds to the time when initial youthfully firm tannins fully integrate and soften, primary fruit flavors evolve into complex tertiary aromas, and the wine achieves perfect balance and persistence. After this peak, fruit fades gradually, and tertiary notes dominate until the wine gently declines.

Food pairing

Classic pairings include grilled or roasted red meats (lamb, beef), game dishes (venison), rich mushroom sauces, hard aged cheeses (like Manchego or aged Parmesan), and dishes featuring herbs de Provence or earthy truffle.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Decanting helps to soften the still-present robust tannins and open up aromatic complexity in this relatively young vintage.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, integrated pest management, and minimal chemical inputs

Almaviva incorporates sustainable viticulture practices rooted in European and Chilean tradition, reflecting modern environmental concerns but is not fully certified organic or biodynamic.