At a glance

Producer

Viña Almaviva S.A.

Region

Puente Alto, Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Bordeaux-style blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$140-$200 USD/bottle (release), $200-$350 USD (current international market)

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, blackberry, cassis, tobacco, graphite, violet, subtle cedar and sweet spice, fine tannic structure, fresh acidity, persistent finish

Evolution: Early tertiary notes emerging (graphite, cocoa), primary fruit still dominant; complexity and aromatic bouquet set to deepen over next decade

At peak: Exquisite harmony between structure and fruit, complex bouquet of dark fruits, earth, cedar, fine spices at full maturity between 2026 and 2034

Structure

Acidity

Medium+; freshness supporting aging and highlighting typical Maipo Alto vibrancy

Tannins

Firm, fine-grained, integrated; still present but softening with age

Alcohol

14.5% ABV (typical for this vintage)

Aging potential

Excellent for Chile; 15-20 years from vintage, possibly more in optimal cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2034

Optimal window

2024 to 2040

Current status

Entering ideal maturity; can be enjoyed now, will improve further

Current condition

Structured, vibrant; powerful yet balanced tannins, rich fruit, and subtle oak integration

Almaviva 2018 is crafted for long-term aging, benefiting from excellent structure and classic Maipo Alto freshness; vintage marked by harmony and concentration, promising extended peak with proper storage.

Food pairing

Prime rib, rack of lamb, duck breast, aged cheeses, mushroom risotto, black truffle dishes, robust Mediterranean cuisine

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm tannins that are softening with age, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Advanced integrated pest management (IPM), gradual water conservation improvements, investments in energy efficiency, ongoing reduction of chemical fertilizers, partial use of lightweight bottles in recent years

Viña Almaviva S.A. demonstrates strong commitment to sustainability within Chile, complying with national 'Certified Sustainable' standards, emphasizing energy and water management, and applying eco-responsible vineyard practices. The estate is not organic or biodynamic, and does not employ regenerative or carbon-neutral certifications as of 2018. Packaging is premium-focused (including wood), and most wine is consumed outside Chile, increasing global shipping footprint. Nevertheless, transparency, local environmental stewardship, and ongoing improvements put Almaviva well above average compared to conventional global fine wine estates, but short of highest possible marks.