At a glance

Producer

Santa Carolina

Region

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$12-$18

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry), hints of cedar and subtle spice from oak aging

Evolution: Will develop more pronounced tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and earthy nuances with bottle age

At peak: Complex layered flavors, silky tannins, and smooth finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Moderate to firm, well-integrated

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

8-12 years under proper storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2030

Optimal window

2025 to 2032

Current status

Young, developing tannins and fruit concentration

Current condition

Good balance between fruit and structure, but benefits from cellaring

The 2022 vintage in Colchagua Valley produced a warm climate Cabernet with ripe tannins and robust fruit concentration which will benefit from a few years in bottle to fully integrate the oak and soften the tannins, resulting in balanced complexity around year 5-8 post-vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats, lamb, aged cheeses, mushroom-based dishes, and hearty stews

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To help open up the aromas and soften tannins for early drinking

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation initiatives in vineyards, efficient energy use in winery using solar panels, eco-friendly packaging with lightweight bottles

Santa Carolina integrates sustainability in vineyard management and winery processes, emphasizing water savings, energy efficiency, and ecological stewardship. Packaging choices are geared toward reducing waste. While the Chilean origin means a carbon footprint from export logistics, the producer aims to mitigate environmental impact where possible.