Espinos y Cardos, Los Espinos Merlot Reserva, Central Valley, Chile, 2023

Producer Profile

Between the mountains and the sea, Espinos y Cardos looks to craft subtle, pure expressions of classic international varieties from their two ranges.

Focused on vineyards in Casablanca and Curico, Los Espinos combines cutting edge winemaking with regional typicity to provide a range that is at the beating heart of the country. Santa Macarena is a testament to the individuality and intrigue that so many Chilean wine drinkers are yet to discover. Amazing fruit, grown in theSan Antonio region 5km from the ocean, so close you can smell it, crafted into a unique expression of the enigmatic Pinot Noir that clearly demonstrates the real quality that lives in this land.

Viticulture

From selected vineyard sites across Chile's Central Valley. The cooling influences of the Andes and the Humboldt current together with the diurnal temperature difference here allows for slow ripening so that the grapes develop maximum flavour.

Winemaking

Cold maceration at 10°C for 4 days. Classic alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 28-30°C to preserve aromas and flavour.

Tasting Note

Great value for money, the wine is bright ruby red in colour, with wild red fruits, plum, blackberry and spice exploding in the mouth. A medium body, super sweet tannins and a lovely long finish.

Food Matching

Sourdough pizza, aubergine melts, cold meats.