2018 'Kai' Carmenère

A standout single varietal Carmenère from Chile, showcasing the grape's potential with a hint of Syrah and exceptional winemaking.

Producer

Errazuriz

Region

Aconcagua Valley

Country

Chile

Varietal

Carménère

Varietal Composition

95% Carmenère, 5% Syrah

Specifications

2018

Vintage

2030

Drink By

ABV

Vinification

Aged 22 months in French oak barrels (67% new)

Occasional wine note

This is the only single varietal Carmenère in our portfolio. Yes, there is a touch of Syrah in this, but the Carmenère is the star. Carmenère has traditionally been a minor blending grape for all of those big Left Bank Bordeauxs. In Chile it's become one of the most important varieties, and this offering is an excellent representation of just how good it can be. It doesn't hurt that we have excellent wine making here is on display.

What experts say about this wine

100

James Suckling

This is a very sophisticated Kai with aromas of blackberries, blueberries, violets and graphite that follow through to a full body with creamy, polished tannins that show tension and focus. The tannins are borderless.

100

Wine Advocate

The 2018 Kai was produced with Carmenère and 5% Syrah from their Aconcagua vineyards 60 kilometers away from the sea. It has good ripeness, a medium to full body with 14% alcohol, integrated oak and a creamy texture after spending 22 months in French oak barrels, 67% of which were new. It keeps a riper varietal profile with generous spice and herbs, without heaviness and with fine tannins.

pairing recommendation