# Luma Chequén Gran Reserva Carménère

- **Producer:** Chequén
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carménère
- **Region:** Maule Valley, Chile
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blueberry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, vanilla, chocolate, coffee, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

Luma Chequén Gran Reserva Carménère is a distinctive red wine produced by InVina, a family-owned winery dedicated to showcasing the rich diversity of Chile's Maule Valley. This particular expression is crafted from 100% Carménère grapes, sourced from two unique microclimates within the valley: the cooler Batuco Estate and the warmer Las Tizas Estate. This thoughtful blending of fruit from contrasting terroirs is the cornerstone of the wine's compelling story, creating a complex and unique flavor profile that highlights both blueberry notes from the cooler vineyard and jammier fruit characteristics from the warmer site. The Gran Reserva designation signifies a commitment to quality and aging potential, reflecting InVina's passion for their region.

## Interesting facts

- This Carménère blends grapes from two distinct Maule Valley microclimates: cooler Batuco and warmer Las Tizas.
- Producer InVina is a family-owned winery dedicated to showcasing Maule Valley's diverse terroir.
- The wine is aged for 12 months in oak barrels, contributing to its smooth and amiable tannins.
- Carménère, once thought extinct, thrives in Chile, often called the 'lost grape of Bordeaux'.

## Food pairing

The Luma Chequén Carménère's medium body, smooth tannins, and pronounced fruit profile (blueberry, jammier notes) make it an excellent match for rich, savory dishes. The wine's modest acidity can cut through fats in red meats and tomato-based sauces, while its fruit complements the savory elements without being overwhelmed. The oak aging adds complexity that harmonizes with roasted or grilled flavors, making it versatile with a range of hearty meals and aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Luma Chequén Gran Reserva Carménère begins with manual harvesting of grapes from the Batuco and Las Tizas Estates in the Maule Valley. The vineyards feature a mix of alluvial, bedrock, and sandy loam soils with medium fertility. Following harvest, the grapes undergo a 5-day cold maceration to extract color and flavor precursors. This is followed by a 10-day fermentation period conducted in stainless steel tanks, preserving the fruit's vibrancy. The wine then matures for 12 months in oak barrels, which contributes to its structure, complexity, and smooth, amiable tannins.