Want wines like this one?

Take our quick quiz to get a selection of bottles matched to your preferences.

Take the Quiz

Reserva

2008 Rapel Valley Carménère

The San Jose De Apalta Reserva is a stunning example of Carménère from the esteemed Rapel Valley, showcasing the region's ability to produce exceptional red wines. With a rich, deep crimson color, this wine entices the senses right from the start. On the nose, it offers an inviting bouquet of dark fruit notes, such as ripe blackberries and plums, beautifully complemented by hints of spice and earthiness. The palate reveals a well-rounded experience, balancing its full-bodied character with a vibrant acidity that adds brightness and liveliness. A delightful interplay of medium tannins provides a sturdy structure without overwhelming the fruit, making it approachable and smooth. As it glides across the tongue, one can savor its nearly dry finish, leaving a lingering impression that invites another sip. This vintage is a true testament to the potential of Carménère in the Rapel Valley, celebrating both the varietal and its exceptional terroir.

Tasting notes:


Chocolate

Chocolate

Blackberry

Blackberry

Black Pepper

Black Pepper

Flavor profile:


Acidity Low

Low Pronounced

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Region:


Rapel Valley

Chile's Rapel Valley DO is actually made up of two smaller valleys; Cachapoal and Colchagua. Cachapoal is the warmer of the two, located further inland, entirely cut off from Pacific Ocean breezes and storms by the peaks of the Chilean Coastal Range. This area is well-known for old vine Carménère, which ripens best on the sun-drenched valley floors and foothills of the Andes Mountains. Colchagua lies southwest of its sister valley with warm vineyards and greater exposure to sea breezes, making it an idyllic home to Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The Rapel Valley focuses primarily on red wine production, famous for full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Carménère, with bold fruit flavors alongside signature herbal and earthy characteristics. Chile’s Denominación de Origen (DO) classification system focuses on separating wines by the physical location of origin. To use the DO classification on a label, a producer must have pulled 85 percent of the fruit used in a wine from a defined regional location. The DO system names wine regions in the country from north to south.

Want to discover wines for you?

Take our quiz to see a selection of wines tailored to your tastes.

Take the Quiz