# Casa de Campo Cabernet Sauvignon - Carménère (2024)

- **Producer:** Casa de Campo
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère
- **Region:** Valle Central, Chile
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €7
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, cherry, bell pepper, vanilla, smoke, tobacco

## About this wine

Casa de Campo, translating to 'Country House', reflects the rustic heritage of traditional Chilean haciendas. Produced under the stewardship of Les Grands Chais de France, this wine originates from Chile's Valle Central DO, situated between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The Mediterranean climate of the valley provides optimal conditions with warm sunny days and cool nighttime breezes. The blend pairs Cabernet Sauvignon with Carménère, a historic Bordeaux variety that was nearly wiped out in Europe during the 19th century before thriving in Chilean soils.

## Interesting facts

- Casa de Campo translates to Country House, reflecting the rustic heritage of Chilean haciendas.
- Carménère was thought extinct in Europe after phylloxera until rediscovered flourishing in Chile.
- Vineyards lie between the Andes and Pacific Ocean, benefiting from strong diurnal temperature shifts.

## Food pairing

The combination of firm tannins, lively acidity, and deep fruit intensity makes this wine ideal for rich, high-protein and savory dishes. The tannins bind with the proteins and fats in red meats and aged cheeses, softening the palate impression. Additionally, the herbal pyrazine notes inherent to Carménère complement dishes featuring roasted peppers, Mediterranean herbs, and savory reductions.

## Wine making process

Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness from alluvial soils in Valle Central. Upon arrival at the winery, the fruit undergoes gentle destemming and pressing. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to retain primary fruit characteristics and varietal purity. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging with oak barrels and vats to integrate delicate oak influences and soften the tannins before bottling.