Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Concha y Toro · Central Valley, Chile
At a glance
- Producer
- Concha y Toro
- Region
- Central Valley, Chile
- Grape variety
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Fruity
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $6-$10 USD (750ml retail, worldwide average as of 2024)
Tasting profile
Notes of ripe plum, cherry, subtle herbs and gentle spice. Straightforward, juicy and fruit-driven with soft tannins.
Evolution: Minimal evolution; primary fruit notes will fade after 2-3 years, tannins will soften further.
At peak: Best expression when young—fresh, vibrant fruit and easy-drinking style.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium
- Tannins
- Soft to moderate
- Alcohol
- 13-13.5% ABV
- Aging potential
- Low; made for early consumption
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2022 to 2024
- Optimal window
- 2022 to 2025
- Current status
- Drink Now
- Current condition
- Fresh and at peak; not intended for extended cellaring
Mass-market Cabernet from Central Valley, Chile, designed for youthful approachability with no intended long-term aging. Quality and freshness maintained in initial 2-3 years; holding longer risks diminished vibrancy as wine is not built for extended cellaring.
Food pairing
Grilled meat, burgers, pizza, casual pasta, barbecue, hard cheeses.
Serving
- Decant
- Not required
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Concha y Toro implements water recycling, energy conservation (including solar panels at some facilities), ecological corridors and biodiversity action plans, lighter bottle weight for less packaging, large-scale community and employee engagement. Frontera line uses lightweight glass bottles.
Concha y Toro is notable for sustainability among large-scale producers, with certified sustainable viticulture, efforts in energy and water conservation, and packaging initiatives. While not organic/biodynamic, the sustainable certification is significant for the region and the price point. The Frontera range in particular is made for high volume with scalable, responsible practices but does not reach the highest sustainable thresholds seen in premium or smaller, organic/biodynamic estates. Export-based distribution increases carbon footprint for many buyers. Overall, strong sustainability for a mass market wine, but moderate limitations relative to top-performing global benchmarks.