HARVEST

2016 Chile Update

Chile is once again providing us with the usual assortment of great grapes. Deliciously dark Malbec and Carmenere, rich Cab and Merlot, the reds are always amazing. The standout for me this year I hope will be pinot noir.  Now, I don't normally make pinot for me, but a few years ago, I "grugingly brought some in, and it made a really great red.  So for now, I am back on the (at least Cochulagua Valley) pinot noir.  

Viognier is year in year out a great favorite, and Chilean Sauvingon Blanc of Grapemasters caliber makes a delicious crisp white to behold.  The chardonnay- well, if you love big oak, this is a great way to begin!   Oh, and lets not forget - a not finicky Pinot Noir! Rich, loads of cheery, and loves a good barrel!

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GRENACHE
NOIR

One of two traditional Grenache varieties, (the other being Grenache Blanc), Grenache Noir forms the backbone of many fantastic wines, including Chateau Neuf Du Pape, or is used as a complimentary blending grape with Syrah or Carrignan,or even completely on it own, where its typical flavors of cherry, currant,and licorice show through.  Far richer in character than typical California Grenache.

SYRAH

 Another grape that does exceptionally well in Mediteranean growing climates, it is often said that the worlds best Syrah comes from Priorat, the neighboring Appleation to Montsant where we get our Syrah from. Rich full body, with loads of cherry and spice are typical of great Syrah.  On its own, blended with other Mediteranean varietals such os Grenache and Carrignan, or with Cab Sauv as is often done in Australia, Syrah is an indispensable variety in the winemakers pantry.

CABERNET
SAUVIGNON

The worlds most popular red grape, full of elegance, power, tannins, and a plethora of black fruit aromatics.

CARIGNAN

Fantastic on its own when grown for maximum flavor and body in Montsant, it is also a staple for many traditional blends found across Spain, including Rioja, and the French Mediteranean coast.

MERLOT

Velvet smooth, with a delicious fruit core and medium tannins. Quite exceptional on its own, or blended with Cab Sauv. a personal favorite of mine is Merlot/Tempranillo blend.

WHITE BLEND

What would Spanish wines be without Tempranillo. The backbone of great Rioja blends, or vinified on its own, aas the do in Ribiero del Duoro, Tempranillo, with layers of plummy fruit, great body and excellent color is a must have from this terroir.

TEMPRANILLO

A magic assembly of Grenache Blanc, with a splash of Macabeo and Muscat Alexandra for heady aromas. 

Are you a grape distributor looking to offer your clients the great grapes and terroir of Spain? 
Email charles@grapemasters.com