This is a fascinating study of a rosé style. The color is salmon red and naturally deep in tone, as expected from Carmenère. Classic Carmenère blackberry aromas are evident, with exotic new-world Sauvignon Blanc-like notes of passion fruit and capsicum. The wine is crisp, dry, and refreshing, with a clean yet creamy finish.
In the Vineyard
The grapes were sourced from Santa Lucila, a sandy-soil vineyard, located on the bank of the Lontué River in the cool-climate precordillera (Andean foothills) section of Curicó. This lot was selected for its exceptional aroma profile and bottled separately.
Winemaking Profile
This 2005 (oops) White Carmenère began as a trial to make a Carmenère Rosé component. The winemakers, noting a delightful floral quality and spiciness from the Carmenère, innovated the idea of producing a dry rosé-style wine – a white Carmenère. The wines were vinified in a rosé-style, which forgave leanness but optimized the body, color, and aromatics of the Carmenère varietal. The result is a distinctive rosé-style wine, dry, full of texture and complexity, and the first-ever style of its kind.
Food Pairing
Rosé-style wines are known for their versatility with many foods, including spicy ethnic cuisines, and this White Carmenère is no exception. Try with Asian, Latin, Pacific Rim, or Caribbean dishes.
| Varietal Content | 100% Carmenère |
| Grape Source | Santa Lucila Vineyard, Curicó Valley |
| Alcohol | 13.0% |
| pH | 3.64 |
| Titratable Acidity | 4.3 g/L |
| Residual Sugar | 1.5 g/L |
| Suggested Retail Price | $12 |