At a glance

Producer

VIK

Region

Millahue, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$55-$70 USD (estimated, based on recent vintages and release trends)

Tasting profile

Vivid aromas of black cherry, cassis, wild herbs, and subtle graphite. Palate features blackberry, plum, green tobacco, cocoa nib, sweet spices, and fresh-cut bell pepper. Oak is supporting, not dominating.

Evolution: Herbal notes deepen, tannins soften, fruit matures to dried cherry and fig, secondary notes of leather and licorice develop after 5-7 years.

At peak: At peak, complex meld of ripe black fruit, savory dried herbs, graphite/mineral, plush yet structured mouthfeel, long elegant finish.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, medium-high

Tannins

Firm, ripe, medium-plus

Alcohol

13.5-14% ABV (typical for VIK’s Cabernet Franc)

Aging potential

Excellent for this style; 8-12 years optimal, up to 15 years with good storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2032

Optimal window

2026 to 2034

Current status

Very youthful, primary

Current condition

Tight, structured, vibrant tannins, showing primary fruit and freshness

Cabernet Franc from Millahue (especially from VIK, which focuses on ultra-high-density planting and sustainable micro-vinification) is built for aging. Youthful structure needs time to relax, revealing complexity and tertiary notes after 5-8 years.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roasted duck breast, earthy mushroom risotto, or herbed lentil stew. Handles aromatic herbs, roasted vegetables, and hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften youthful tannins and open aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Full estate-managed ecosystem (minimal chemical intervention, water conservation via drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, biodiversity corridors, wild animal preservation), gravity-fed winery design reduces energy use, solar panel integration, lightweight and recyclable glass, eco-friendly packaging.

VIK is recognized in Chile for its holistic environmental approach—biodiversity, natural pest control, minimal synthetic inputs, energy-efficient winery, integrated landscape management, and social responsibility. No organic or biodynamic logo due to limited but targeted agrochemical use in difficult years, but their comprehensive estate stewardship and environmental innovation set industry standards in Chile and South America.