At a glance

Producer

Viña El Principal

Region

Maipo Andes Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Bordeaux Blend (predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon & Carménère)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Bold blackcurrant, cassis, ripe plum, grilled herbs, cedar, hints of graphite and sweet spice from French oak; youthful and intense

Evolution: Will gain tobacco, leather, earth, graphite, and truffle notes as tannins integrate and fruit matures

At peak: Supple tannins, rich mid-palate, distinct Maipo minerals and herbs, integrated oak, velvet texture

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-high

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, suitable for aging

Alcohol

14-14.5% ABV (typical for Maipo Andes Bordeaux blends)

Aging potential

10-14 years, may hold longer in exceptional vintages

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2034

Optimal window

2026 to 2036

Current status

Youthful, can be enjoyed now but will improve

Current condition

Primary fruit and structure dominate; will integrate with cellaring

While drinkable now, the 2022 has robust tannins and acidity indicating aging capability. Expect best balance and integration of fruit, oak, and savoriness after 6-8 years. Not a blockbuster 'grand vin' but crafted to reward cellaring (typical for El Principal's top tiers). Track record of previous Memorias vintages support extended peak well past generic “drink now” Chilean red windows.

Food pairing

Grilled ribeye, rack of lamb with rosemary, venison, roasted duck, hearty beef stews, mature cheeses (Manchego, aged Gouda)

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Opens aromatics, softens structure, sheds initial reduction

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Precision irrigation (drip systems), cover cropping, reduced synthetic inputs, native flora restoration, glass light-weighting, local employee programs

El Principal is a recognized participant in 'Sustainable Wine of Chile'—the nation’s third-party sustainability protocol covering vineyard, winery, and social responsibility. They utilize drip irrigation and minimal pesticides, align vineyard management with local biodiversity, use lighter bottles, and have made substantial inroads in energy/water management. However, they are not certified organic or biodynamic, and global export shipping increases their carbon footprint compared to local consumption. In summary: substantially better than industry average but not at the vanguard of global wine sustainability.