At a glance

Producer

Concha y Toro

Region

Central Valley, Chile

Grape variety

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$10-14 USD retail (750ml, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Black cherry, cassis, plum, with hints of cedar, slight spice, and soft vanilla from oak; medium body, approachable tannins.

Evolution: Primary fruit flavors will mellow; some integration of oak and a potential softening of tannins by 2025. May develop subtle earthy undertones.

At peak: At peak (2024-2025), balance between ripe fruit, supple tannins, and integrated oak. Flavors remain fresh and engaging.

Structure

Acidity

Medium; provides freshness and helps preserve the fruit, but not high enough for long-term aging.

Tannins

Medium, smooth and accessible, moderate grip that will soften slightly with short-term aging.

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 13.5%-14% ABV), well integrated for immediate consumption.

Aging potential

2-4 years from vintage; not designed for extended cellaring.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2025

Optimal window

2023 to 2026

Current status

Ready to drink now; will remain enjoyable over the next few years.

Current condition

Fresh and fruit-forward; youthful with primary notes dominant, no evidence of decline.

The wine's accessible structure and moderate acidity make it most expressive within 2-4 years post-vintage. During peak (2024-2025), primary fruit is still vivid, tannins have smoothed further, and all elements are harmonized. After this, fruit character declines, tannins and acidity can become thin, and the wine loses vibrancy without meaningful complexity gains.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, burgers, lamb chops, beef stew, and pizza; also complements hard cheeses and mushroom-based dishes. Peak drinking accentuates freshness—pair with char-grilled proteins and barbecued fare. As wine matures and softens, can pair with softer cheeses, herbed poultry, and dishes with light tomato sauce.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, solar energy use, sustainable vineyard management, wildlife corridors, integrated pest management.

Concha y Toro has made tangible progress in sustainable practices and certification, positioning the Casillero del Diablo line as a standard-bearer for affordable, responsible winemaking in Chile. However, its scale limits further reduction in carbon intensity compared to boutique productions.