At a glance

Producer

Viña Don Melchor

Region

Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$150 per bottle

Tasting profile

Concentrated blackcurrant, cassis, graphite, cedar, and subtle dark chocolate notes with firm structure

Evolution: Developing tertiary aromas of tobacco, leather, and forest floor over the next 5-10 years

At peak: Complex layers of dark fruit, spice, earth and fine-grained tannins with silky texture

Structure

Acidity

Balanced and refreshing medium-high

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

30-40 years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2054

Optimal window

2022 to 2057

Current status

Approaching early maturity with robust aging potential

Current condition

The wine shows excellent concentration, ripe tannins and balanced acidity with evolving complexity

The 2017 vintage in Maipo Valley is excellent, with warm days and cool nights producing balanced phenolic ripeness and acidity, supporting extended cellaring and a slow development of tertiary complexity.

Food pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, beef tenderloin, aged Manchego cheese, mushroom risotto, and hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow the wine’s complex aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, drip irrigation for water conservation, solar energy usage at winery, lightweight packaging introduced

Viña Don Melchor employs sustainable viticultural practices with certifications and environmental management, though global export logistics contribute to the carbon footprint. Efforts in water conservation and renewable energy demonstrate commitment to reducing environmental impact.