At a glance

Producer

Viña Santa Carolina

Region

Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Vibrant cassis, blackberry, hints of cedar and tobacco, with oak spice and firm tannins

Evolution: Over the next 5 years, tannins will soften, fruit will deepen with tertiary notes of leather and earth

At peak: Complex dark fruit layered with smoky cedar, balanced acidity, smooth finish

Structure

Acidity

Moderate acidity balancing richness

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2033

Optimal window

2026 to 2035

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Young with developing structure, approachable but benefits from short-term aging

This wine is from a recognized quality producer in Chile’s Maipo Valley, known for age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon. The Reserva de Familia is a reserve-level bottling with premium vineyard sourcing and oak aging that supports a 10-15 year aging window, with ideal drinking peaking roughly 5-10 years post-release.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled red meats, braised lamb, aged cheeses, and hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — Decanting helps soften tannins and opens up aromatic complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of drip irrigation, integrated pest management, energy-efficient winery operations, recyclable glass bottles

Viña Santa Carolina maintains sustainable vineyard practices including water conservation, reduced chemical use, and energy-efficient production, contributing to good sustainability practices whereas exporting globally results in moderate carbon footprint.