Viña Ventisquero, Grey (Glacier) Carmenère 2020
Maipo, Chile, Dry Red, DIAM, 13.5% abv(2024) From a single block of coastal Maipo vineyard, planted in 1998, this wine spent 18 months in French oak (1/3 new) then a further 8 months in bottle before release. I'd recommend decanting, as this wine blossomed overnight in a stoppered bottle, from a slightly dull beginning, emerging packed with juicy blueberry fruit. Aromas are touched by spice and sappy, olive-like notes, then the palate opens up with dense and sweet fruit and a fine oak quality. The initial score I had in my head of 88 or so was replaced by one of 91 on the second day. Watch the video for more information and food-matching ideas.