Cabernet Sauvignon/Carménère, 2015. Key
Appellation: Cachapoal Valley, Chile
Wine tasting with Paul Kalemkiarian & Ed Masciana
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Key is made by Viña Valle Secreto in Chile’s Cachapoal Valley. The winery is relatively new, having been founded in 2007 by two executives in the food and securities industries, Antonio Puntí Ferrer and Claudio Berndt. Both had a love of wine, which was finally realized with this joint venture.
The winery is a technological marvel, featuring the most state-of-the-art equipment and employing the most up-to-date methods. Only their estate grapes are used, and barrel aging is done exclusively in French oak. The winery can house over 100,000 gallons of wine.
Chile’s long wine history goes back to the Spanish settlers in the early 1500s. Along with their language, they brought their savvy winemaking skills. Little did they know that this pristine region is one of the most perfect in the world for growing wine grapes.
Our selection is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carménère and was aged for six months in French Oak. Carménère originated in Bordeaux, where it was thought to be Merlot. It’s easy to see why: it looks and tastes like Merlot. It’s only thanks to DNA testing that we know the two are distinct grapes.
Regardless, the blend here is absolutely perfect. You have the power and presence of Cabernet with the gentleness and softness of Carménère. The result has lovely plum and cherry notes with spice and chocolate to boot.
