Don Maximiano Errázuriz founded Viña Errázuriz in Chile in 1870. With his vision for the future and his pioneering spirit, he planted the first French grape varieties in the Aconcagua Valley at the foot of Mount Aconcagua, which is the highest peak in the western hemisphere. The valley has cool, rainy winters; hot, dry summers; and moist Pacific Ocean breezes — all ideal for growing grapes. Don Maximiano sent for the finest clones from France and transformed the barren land into a world-class vineyard, which is recognized today as perhaps the single top-quality producer of Chilean wines.
We will taste three Errázuriz “Max” wines, named in honor of the founder, Don Maximiano Errázuriz:
Max Chardonnay Reserva 2019 — The grapes for the Max Chard come from selected vineyards that grow close to the Pacific Ocean’s coast on rolling hills at an altitude of 100 to 300 meters above sea level. Gentle Pacific breezes and morning fog make these vineyards ideal for producing refreshing Chardonnay. The wine is pale yellow-straw color. On the nose, it shows its citric character, accompanied with papaya, pineapple and melon, all framed by soft notes of dried fruits and pastries. On the palate, first shows its citric character, accompanied by tropical fruits and notes of marzipan and dried fruits. The wine has medium structure and well balance acidity. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 20% new oak. 13.5% ABV. Rating: 92 (2018), Tim Atkin. $23.99/$7
Max Carmenere Reserva 2019 — The grapes primarily come from vineyards located in the interior of the Aconcagua Valley. The vineyards have diverse soils with unique nutrition and drainage conditions that help control plant vigor, producing balanced fruit loads with small bunches and berries. The wine displays a bright and deep violet color. On the nose, notes of black and red fruits, herbs and spiced character as roasted red bell pepper, rosemary and dill, all framed by soft notes of chocolate and roasted coffee beans. On the palate, appears notes of nuts, dark cherries and coffee. Creamy and chewy; good structure with elegant, fine grained tannins that give a silky texture on the palate. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 25% new oak. 13.5% ABV. Rating: 92, James Suckling. $23.99/$7
Max Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2018 — Idyllic climatic conditions with moderate temperatures allowed a balanced ripening and harvesting, while enabling complex flavors in the grapes. The Cab is bright ruby red in color with violet hues. On the nose, aromas of red fruits, tobacco, cherries and a soft spiciness, along with dill and peppermint, are all framed by notes of nuts, chocolate and cloves. The palate delivers sour cherry, raspberry and a fresh blueberry, followed by chocolate and nutmeg. Round, juicy and full, with refreshing acidity; fine-grained tannins; and delightfully soft edges that give a long finish. 14% ABV. Rating: 92, James Suckling. $23.99/$7
St. Lucio’s Gourmet and Cheese is open inside the store for your cheese needs and is bringing in some amazing new cheeses every week! Feel free to bring snacks/dinner with you, but please dispose of your own trash (there is a trash can at the back entrance).
See you Friday!