At a glance

Producer

Concha y Toro

Region

Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Carménère

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$40

Tasting profile

Ripe black cherry, plum, green peppercorn, subtle herbal notes, cedar oak spice, medium oak toast

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes of leather, earth, dried herbs and softened tannins through mid to late 2020s

At peak: Silky texture, integrated structure, balanced savory and dark fruit notes with long finish

Structure

Acidity

Moderate, balancing the ripe fruit

Tannins

Medium to medium-high, well-integrated

Alcohol

Approximately 14.0-14.5%

Aging potential

Strong potential for 10-15+ years from vintage given quality producer and grape variety

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2022 to 2035

Current status

Entering maturity with significant complexity developed

Current condition

Wine is drinking well with robust fruit, balanced tannins, and good structure but will gain more complexity and roundness with further aging

2017 was a strong vintage in Maipo Valley with structured but approachable tannins and ripe fruit concentration. The Carménère grape's natural softness and spice lends itself well to mid-term aging. This wine’s balance of acidity and tannins supports a 15+ year window from vintage, with the best drinking moments commencing 5 years post-release to allow full integration of oak and fruit.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats (lamb, beef), roasted vegetables, hearty stews, hard cheeses like aged Manchego or Pecorino

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften youthfully assertive tannins and allow aromatics to open

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of drip irrigation for water conservation, energy-efficient winery equipment, packaging includes lightweight bottles for carbon footprint reduction.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, Concha y Toro applies meaningful sustainable practices that reduce water use and energy consumption. Their packaging choices also aim to minimize carbon footprint. Ocean freight import and Chile’s ample sun provide energy efficiencies. Overall, the Terrunyo Carmenere 2017 scores above average in sustainability for a premium Chilean wine.