Region Of The Week: Maipo Valley
Maipo Valley is considered to be one of Chile’s most renowned wine regions and for good reason. Home to viticulture in Chile, the first vines were planted in Maipo Valley in the 1540s, but it wasn’t until the 1800s, when Chilean entrepreneurs grew rich from the country’s mineral wealth, that winemaking really took off. Now, Maipo Valley spans across roughly 3,000 hectares that are divided into three subregions: Alto Maipo, Central Maipo, and Maipo Bajo. Its Mediterranean climate creates the perfect environment for grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon — Maipo Valley’s main varietal — Merlot, Syrah, and Carménère to grow there.
Chono Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
A ruby-red in color, this Chilean red wine has intense aromas of cherries and strawberries, interwoven with notes of licorice, cassis, bay leaves, mint, mocha, and toasted oak. The palate is elegant and smooth with ripe, round tannins and a fruity finish, making it an ideal pairing for red meats, baked pasta, and ripe cheeses.
Chono Carménère Reserva 2022
Carménère, the flagship grape of Chile, was once often mistaken for Merlot. The mixup was so bad that for a time many Chilean producers would label their wines Merlot/Carménère because they couldn't distinguish between the two in the vineyards. This case of mistaken identity speaks to the style of wine that Carménère makes. Generally they are full and generous with soft tannins and dark fruits. This Carménère from Chono is a tasty, juicy red with notes of plums, spice, and bell peppers.