Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Concha y Toro · Denomination of Origin: Central Valley, Central Valley, Chile
At a glance
- Producer
- Concha y Toro
- Region
- Denomination of Origin: Central Valley, Central Valley, Chile
- Grape variety
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $8-$12 per 750ml bottle (retail average, Wine-Searcher)
Tasting profile
Bright black currant, dark cherry, with subtle notes of green pepper, vanilla oak, and mild spice; medium-plus body with smooth mouthfeel and modest tannins.
Evolution: Over 2-4 years will see a slight softening of tannins and fruit rounding, some development of dried herb and cedar notes.
At peak: At peak, will present well-integrated fruit and oak with balanced acidity and approachable tannins, offering a pleasant, fruit-driven profile with subtle complexity.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium acidity that balances fruit and adds freshness but is not highly high to promote extended aging.
- Tannins
- Moderate, smooth and ripe tannins typical for entry-level Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile; approachable but provide some grip.
- Alcohol
- Typically around 13.5-14% ABV, well integrated without heat or harshness.
- Aging potential
- Limited to medium term; 5-7 years aging potential from vintage, mostly to allow softening of tannins and fruit integration.
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2023 to 2026
- Optimal window
- 2022 to 2027
- Current status
- Ready now
- Current condition
- The wine shows youthful fresh fruit with approachable tannins and acidity suitable for near-term consumption.
The peak window 2023-2026 is due to the initial youthful freshness settling into balanced smoothness. This period captures the fruit fully integrated with oak influence before eventual decline in vibrancy. Post-2026, fruit freshness declines more rapidly as this wine is designed for early-to-medium term enjoyment rather than extended aging.
Food pairing
Pairs well with grilled red meats (beef steaks, lamb chops), barbecue, cheddar cheese, and dishes with moderate spice like black pepper or herbs. As the wine ages, pairs nicely with stews and roasted vegetables.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30 minutes) — Decanting opens the wine's aromatics and softens fresh tannins, improving immediate drinkability.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 6/10
Water management, integrated pest control, and energy efficiency efforts at producer level, but not specific to this label.
While not going for dedicated organic or biodynamic certification, Concha y Toro as a large producer adopts several sustainability measures that improve environmental footprint compared to conventional mass production.