PRESS REVIEWS

Highlights of our 90+ point wines on one PDF:

Press: High Ninety + Scores GVI— Fall 2024

Albamar

Albamar Sauvignon Blanc 2022 received an excellent review: “Light scents of lemon and clementine with an herbal nuance. Ripe citrus and a hint of rosemary show on a light weight but refreshing, perfumed palate. The perfect sipping wine for a hot summer day.”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

Albamar Chardonnay 2021 received an excellent review from the Wine Curmudgeon: “This Chilean white is stunning — clean, crisp, and refreshing, with green apple and pear fruit.”
–Jeff Siegel, The Wine Curmudgeon, June 2022

Albamar Pinot Noir 2019 is one of the Wine Curmudgeon’s “Cheap Wines of the Year” for 2022. “This is a stunning Chilean pinot noir that is the right color (not dark red!), has the right aroma (herbal?), has the right taste (barely ripe berry fruit), and the correct tannins and acidity (just enough).”
–Jeff Siegel, The Wine Curmudgeon, December 2021

Aniello

Aniello Malbec 2022 received a score of 90 points: “Fresh, racy and showing the acidity and brightness that seem to come with the territory in Mainque, Riverside Estate is a Malbec for people who don’t like too much plushness and sweetness in their reds. Stony and fresh, it has a hint of oak spice, plum, redcurrant and blackcurrant fruit and plenty of underlying grip.”
–Tim Atkin

Aniello Pinot Noir 2022 received a good review from Restaurant Wine: “Supple and full bodied, this is a ripely flavored Pinot Noir (strawberry jam, red currant, rose petal, oak), with fine balance, and a lingering finish. Can develop further, but enjoyable now. Excellent value. “
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine

Aniello Malbec 2020 received a good review from Gus Clemens: “Delivers easy drinkability, comfortable tannins, impressive length on the finish. Solid wine. Solid QPR (quality-price ratio).”
–Gus Clemens on Wine

Aniello Chardonnay 2022 received a score of 90 points: “Vineyards near the Río Negro give birth to this Patagonian Chardonnay. Light almond and cedar aromas perfume the nose. Lively and enjoyable acidity lifts a palate that has notes of honey, citrus fruit and a touch of smoke. It has a nice chalky texture and salty notes on the finish.”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Aniello Blanco de Pinot Noir 2022 received a score of 90 points: “This Blanc de Noir style was made with direct-pressed Pinot Noir grapes from Mainque, with 15% of the wine aged in older American oak. Textured, sappy and savoury, with subtle malt and wild strawberry flavours and a nip of tannin.”
–Tim Atkin

Aniello Malbec 2020 received a score of 92 points: “Presents attractive aromas of violets and plum with hints of mint and blackberry. The tannins are reactive and grippy but finely grained so they combine well with the precise, juicy freshness to fill up the palate.”
–Vinous

Aniello Blanco de Pinot Noir 2021 received a score of a score of 90 points: “Aromas of apple, peppercorn and a hint of wet stones shape the nose of this white Pinot Noir. This vintage offers plenty of fruit flavors and nice acidity making the wine very approachable. Bright apples, lime, and grapefruit notes are featured on the creamy palate. It finishes with refreshing citrus flavors. ”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Aniello wines scored 90+ from Anthony Dias Blue:

Aniello Trousseau 2017, 91 points
“Pale ruby color, smooth, tangy, with meaty notes; from a 90 year old vineyard, lush and showing a smooth finish. ”
Aniello Blanco de Pinot Noir 2020, 91 points
“Clear; lively, crisp and racy, with juicy citrus notes, an a fresh bright finish.”

Aniello Malbec 2019 is a Wine & Spirits Best Buy with a score of 91 points: “Grown at an estate vineyard in Mainqué, this malbec fermented in concrete tanks and a third of it aged for 12 months in oak barrels. It needs air to settle down, the cinnamon spice taking a backseat to an orange zest volatility. Wild and meaty.”
–Wine & Spirits, October 2021

Aniello Malbec 2019 received a score of a score of 90 points: ” Opaque red. Intricate aromas of blackberry, violets and rosemary are followed by a flavorful attack and a medium weight palate with dark fruit and licorice flavors. Finishes with lingering fruit notes and firm, chunky tannins.”
–International Wine Review

Aniello wines score 90+ in the James Suckling Argentina Report 2021:

Aniello Malbec 2019, 92 points
“A rich, ripe wine that shows dried berries and hints of figs and spice. Medium body, medium-chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Juicy blackberry finish that’s really fresh and zesty. ”
Aniello Trousseau 2017, 92 points
“Aromas of flowers, sliced oranges and vibrant berries, such as sliced raspberries. Medium-bodied with bright fruit and acidity. Light tannins. Vivid finish.”
–James Suckling, April 2021

Luis Gutierrez of The Wine Advocate describes Aniello as “A name to follow in Patagonia.”
–Wine Advocate

Apaltagua

“Apaltagua Reserva Carménère is a steal.”
–Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Apaltagua Envero Carmenere 2019 received received a score of 91 points: “Dark-chocolate cordial cherry, blackberry, and cinnamon shape the nose of this Carmenère sourced from old vineyards located in the Apalta region of Colchagua Valley. This is a full-bodied, balanced wine with chewy tannins. Sweet black fruit, baking spices and earthy flavors on the palate. The finish is flavorful with dark chocolate notes.”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Apaltagua Grial Carmenere 2017 received an excellent review: “The 2017 Grial Carménère is among the very best Carménère wines produced today and comes from 70-year-old, un-grafted vines. Extreme measures were taken in fruit selection which results in a rich, extracted and bold wine capable of many years of extended cellaring. Its seductive flavors of blackberry, pipe tobacco, leather and spicy cherry linger on the palate. The wine is aged in French and American oak barrels with 25% being new. Total aging is 18 months in the barrel. This is one of the better Carménère I have tasted in recent years.
–Michael Kelly, Californiawinesandwineries.com

Apaltagua Grial Carmenere 2017received a 91 point rating: “This Carmenère from the Apalta subsection of Colchagua is flush on the palate and pulpy in feel. Blackberry and resiny oak flavors turn minty on a finish that goes on and on.”
–Wine Enthusiast

Apaltagua Envero Carmenere 2018 received a 92 point rating: “This wines green and red tones come together to parallel the contrasts in pastel de choclo, the traditional Chilean beef and corn pie. Here, it’s dark green tobacco and meaty bitter chocolate against red fruit brightness. It might sound strange, but it works.”
–Wine & Spirits Magazine

Apaltagua Envero Carmenere 2018 received a score of 91 points, “Effusive fragrance of plums and dark cherries. This is a well balanced, very flavorful wine with vibrant acidity and firm, round tannins. The flavors mimic the nose with good depth and fullness in the mouth. Great pairing with lamb chops.”
–International Wine Review

Apaltagua Envero Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 received a 90 point rating: “Ripe and rich, the Envero Cabernet Sauvignon offers tasty plum and cassis accented by earthy notes. It offers a suave mouth feel and medium flavor density, finishing with good length and slightly astringent tannins that will soften with a bit more bottle age.”
–International Wine Review

Apaltagua Coleccion Pinot Noir 2017 received a 91 point rating: “From Chile’s maritime-affected San Antonio Valley the Colección Pinot Noir offers excellent freshness and complexity of flavor. The nose reveals dark red fruit and notes of underbrush and dried herbs. In the mouth there’s a silky texture with dense flavors that mirror the nose, excellent balancing acidity, and round tannins and lingering rich flavors on the finish. 13.5% alc. This is an outstanding value in New World Pinot Noir.”
–International Wine Review

Apaltagua Grial Carmenere 2017 received a 92 point rating: “Dark ruby. This super premium Chilean Carmenere offers aromas and flavors of dark berries and plum with complex spice notes and a hint of cocoa powder. The palate is deep, dense and seamless with a refined, silky texture, a juicy, persistent finish and fine grained tannins. Well worth the price. Sourced from 60+ year old vines.”
–International Wine Review

90 points+Best Buy! Apaltagua Costero: “This grows in Chile’s coastal hills, seven miles from the Pacific, a blend of Chardonnay harvested ripe and Sauvignon Blanc harvested early. After nine months in the bottle on the lees, it’s the Sauvignon Blanc that shows itself most clearly, its green notes edging the riper peach and apple flavors. Dry, smoky and austere, this wine has a salty finish that will work well with oysters.”
–Wine & Spirits, August 2019

Apaltagua Costero sparkling wine ★★★+ “An unusual blend (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc), but a very good wine. It is full bodied, crisp, and long on the palate, with a zesty finish, tasting of lime, candied lemon, walnut, and pineapple. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc.”
–Restaurant Wine, October 2018

Viña Apaltagua reviewed by Ronn Wiegand of Restaurant Wine (July 2017): “Two of Chile’s best red wines. The Signature Cabernet is a supple, complex wine with good depth of fruit, fine balance, and a very long finish. The Carmenere, from 60 year old vines, is a concentrated expression of the varietal; a full bodied wine that is very ripe in flavor (black currant, cherry, cassis), with herb and oak overtones.”

Apaltagua Costero Sparkling wine gets 90 points from Wine & Spirits writer, Patricio Tapia in his own South American wine guide, Descorchados. “Creamy foam with rich citrus notes.”
–Descorchados

Calcu

91 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2023: “An unwooded cuvée of Sauvignon Blanc ad 30% Semillón from coastal influenced Marchigüe, produced in a sappy, stony style with subtle, leesy texture, pink grapefruit, jasmine and citrus zest flavours and a bright, tangy, satisfying finish.”
–Tim Atkin

90 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2023: “Lime pith, sliced apple and gooseberry on the nose. Crisp, crunchy and fresh, with medium body and a more mineral finish.”
–James Suckling

91 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2022: “Pale green tinged straw. Fresh aromas of grapefruit with hints of mandarin and lemon verbena. Bright and crisp on the palate revealing citrus complemented by fresh herbal notes. Good flavor density lingers on a clean finish. Excellent value!”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

Calcu Gran Reserva Rosé 2022 received an excellent review from Gus Clemens on Wine: “Clean, refreshing, with delicious red fruits, particularly strawberry. Nice blend of mostly malbec abetted by petit verdot. Restrained alcohol, dry, balanced. Good acidity gives it lifting intensity and mouthwatering finish. ”
–Gus Clemens, July 2022

Calcu wines received excellent reviews from Restaurant Wine:

Calcu Fotem Cabernet Sauvignon 2018:
“Two of Chile’s best Cabernets. The 2018 Fotem is a supple rich wine with very distinctive flavor (cassis, mint, herbs, blackberry, tobacco, oak), good balance, and a long, full finish.”
Calcu Futa Cabernet Sauvignon 2015:
“Two of Chile’s best Cabernets. A rich but elegant wine that is very supple in texture, well balanced, and complex in flavor (cassis, tobacco, black raspberry, herbs, toast, spicy oak), with a long and persistent finish. Beginning to drink well, but likely at its best after 2025. Exceptional.”
Calcu Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2021:
“Fresh and vibrant in style, this is a fragrant, crisp, full bodied wine with grapefruit, white peach, and lemon grass flavors, and a very long, crisp finish. Great value.”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine, June 2023

90 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Rosé 2022: “Light salmon pink in color. The aromas include sweet and sour cherry, pink grapefruit and delicate hints of herbs. Vivacious and refreshing, this is an easygoing rosé.”
–Vinous

Calcu wines score 90+ from James Suckling:

Calcu Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2022, 90 points
“Green apples, limes and gooseberries to the nose follow through to a refreshing, medium-bodied palate. Has some nice weight with fresh, medium-high acidity.”
Calcu Cabernet Franc 2019, 90 points
“A bright nose, showing blackberries, blue flowers, black pepper and dark plums. Medium-bodied palate, swathed in a spiced blue-fruit context, intertwined with firm yet polished tannins.”
Calcu Carmenere 2019, 91 points
“A medium-bodied red with a juicy and smooth palate, showing good carmenere typicality.”

90 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Rosé 2022: “Nice reduction here with some stones, herbs, raspberries and red cherries. Very crisp, fresh and acid-driven on the palate with a bone-dry center palate followed by a clean, mouthwatering finish.”
–James Suckling

90 Points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Rosé 2022: “Restrained and fresh with 12.5% alcohol and a dry finish, keeping the balance and freshness to make it very apt for the table.”
–Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

90 Points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Carmenere 2020: “The peppery, spicy and varietal 2020 Gran Reserva Carmenere has 5% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, and it shows seriousness, balance and good ripeness in a warm and dry year like 2020. It’s medium to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, dry and clean finish.”
–Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

Calcu Futa Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 recieved an excellent review: “Flaunts dark fruit, French oak, substantial tannins. A big, bold, burly, bombastic Chilean cab that also possess freshness and elegance. Excellent, balancing acidity. Rich, long finish.”
–Gus Clemens on Wine

91 points awarded to Calcu Fotem Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: “Balances elegant floral and mineral details against a structured, concentrated and fleshy core of black cherry and plum, with subtle tugs of tobacco and leather. Finishes with firming tannins and herbal shadings.”
–Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator

Calcu wines score 90+ from Vinous:

Calcu Malbec 2019, 90 points
“Notes of ripe plum and blackberry…broad and smooth in the mouth.”
Calcu Cabernet Franc 2019, 91 points
“Notes of raspberry, herbs and ash…ripe, diaphanous flavors.”
Calcu Carmenere 2019, 90 points
“Ripe plum, blackberry jam, ash and a hint of capsicum. The palate is expansive with a medium body.”

90 Points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Malbec 2019: “Sweet blueberries, fresh blackberries, violets and hints of walnut and rosemary. Elegant, with some light blueberries on the palate, rounded by tight, fine-grained tannins”
–James Suckling

93 points awarded to Calcu Fotem Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: “A muscle-bound red with an intense entry of dark chocolate, violets, and blackberry. The tannins are smooth yet sturdy, creating a plush mouthfeel. Notes of espresso and sandalwood are earthbound and generous.”
–Meridith May, The Somm Journal, June/July 2022

91 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2021: “A dynamo with overt aromatics and flavors. Vivid grapefruit and mango lead the way, lending pizzazz that continues through the finish with salted pear and white flowers.”
–Meridith May, The Somm Journal, June/July 2022

91 points awarded to Calcu Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: “Grapes grown on granitic soils with high clay content near the Pacific yield concentrated aromas and flavors that pour out of this delightful red. Scents of Luxardo cherry and vanilla lead to a brilliant mouthfeel. Cherry skin and sweet tobacco coat the palate with silky yet structured tannins. Vibrant notes of cocoa and coffee bean add to the juicy, generous fruit and the spiced cedar finish.”
–Meridith May, The Somm Journal, June/July 2022

Calcu Gran Reserva Rosé 2021 received an excellent review: “excellent presentation of a malbec-led rosé. Superb acidity, tasty fruit, excellent mouthfeel. While this is solid winner as a chilled summer sipper, it has the depth to be a year-round pour that would pair with range of food. Quality rosé. Quality maker. Outstanding QPR (quality-price ratio).”
–Gus Clemens, Gus Clemens on Wine, May 2022

94 points awarded to Calcu FUTA Cabernet Sauvignon 2015: “Good ripeness and weight but no excess. The oak feels nicely integrated, and the tannins are fine-grained. It’s classical and classy, with a lively spark in the palate”
–Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

“Calcu is making some of Chile’s best red wine values.”
–Restaurant Wine

2015 Calcu FUTA Cabernet Sauvignon received 93 points:
“This is a rich and composed Cabernet with a wealth of cassis and dark plums, leading to a layered palate that builds the fruit in focused style. Drink now.”
–James Suckling, Top 100 Wines from Chile, December 2019

Calcu FUTA Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 is a 90 point wine with Wine Spectator: “Refined with pure-tasting red fruit and spice flavors, backed by fresh acidity. Minerally richness emerges midpalate, with a finish that lingers with chocolate notes and hints of cream.”
–Wine Spectator, May 2019

92 points, 2014 Calcu FUTA Cabernet Sauvignon: “Aromas of animal hide, berry fruit, foresty herb and generic grit make for a firm and tough nose. High acidity creates energy and a shearing sense on the palate, while this tastes of plum and cassis, with typical herbal notes that are normal for Chile. A juicy finish with herbal leftovers is once again textbook for Chilean Cabernet.”
–Wine Enthusiast, December 2018

Domus Aurea

Domus Aurea 2020 scored 94 points: “2020 was an even drier (and warmer) vintage, but surprisingly enough, the 2020 Domus Aurea shows less alcohol and more moderate ripeness than the 2019 vintage of this same wine. This is the archetype of a powerful, balsamic and minty Cabernet-based blend from Maipo, a wine for the long haul. ”
–Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate

Domus Aurea 2019 scored 95 points: “Is there another Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon as consistently excellent as Domus Aurea? We’ve tasted many vintages of this wine, and it never fails to impress. The 2019 vintage offers pure dark red fruit complemented by toasted oak and eucalyptus. In the mouth it’s refined and beautifully balanced with dense flavors of dark cassis and sage. Amazing depth of flavor and a firm structure suggest a long life ahead for this, one of Chile’s premier Cabernets. ”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

Domus Aurea 2019 scored 94 points: “Aromatically engaging, with eucalyptus and briny olive notes paving the way, while river mint nuances dance around a rich core of blackberry and cassis. Lengthens out nicely midpalate, with iron-tinged minerality, singed orange peel and cocoa notes arriving on the finish around thick but well-integrated tannins. Distinctive for its savory qualities, but will have fans.”
–Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator

Domus Aurea 2019 scored 94 points: “Aniseed, cumin and black fruit aromas are found in the glass of this aromatic red. On the palate, it’s smooth, balanced, and flavorful. It displays intense notes of blackberry and plum, with hints of spices. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity provide a good structure. The finish is long and delicious.”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Domus Aurea 2019 recieved an excellent review: “Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is superb, easy drinking red blend, led by cabernet sauvignon, by a quality Chilean maker. This is their top-tier product, and it does not disappoint. Decant and you have a delicious, layered bottle of pleasure. If you have patience, lay it down for a decade. It cries out for buying one to enjoy in its youth and another, or several, later in its evolution. ”
–Gus Clemens on Wine

Domus Aurea 2019 scored 94 points: “Dried heather and black peppercorn add to the savory boldness of this single-vineyard, old-vine Cab. With dusty tannins and a chewy texture, it possesses a meaty middle of blackberry, balsamic, and plum skin that leads to a remarkably generous and lengthy finish.”
–The Tasting Panel, July/August 2022

Domus Aurea 2018 received a 97 point rating: “ I have loved every vintage of this wine that I’ve ever tasted, and though that’s quite an inclusive set, this may be the best of them all. It is exceptional in its purity and classiness, and its fine-ness of texture is something to marvel at, as is the harmoniousness of all its aromatic and flavor elements. It is darkly pigmented to the very edge of a tipped glass, and shows excellent density and palate weight. Yet there’s nothing “heavy” or overblown about the wine at all, and even at this early stage in its development, it is a model of natural-seeming, un-manipulated completeness and beauty. Sure, you should get superb wine for $75, which is no small fee. But to be clear, this is a great wine, and certainly among the best five I’ve tasted in 2022 — out of more than 3,000.”
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

Domus Aurea 2018 scored 93 points and is a Wine Enthusiast Cellar Selection: “Complexity comes in waves on the nose of this classic Maipo Cabernet from a great year. Aromas of meaty berry fruits, oak spice, juniper and minerally sea shell blend into a fine whole, while this displays strong-boned structure and intensity. Spicy oak and peppery notes strengthen cassis and plum flavors, while hints of green herbs, mint and chocolate appear on the finish; best from 2024–2035.”
–Michael Schnachner, Wine Enthusiast

Domus Aurea 2018 received a 96 point rating: “This 2018 seems to follow the path of the superb 2016, and the 2018 Domus Aurea, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% each Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, feels very harmonious and integrated despite its young age. It’s powerful with ripe fruit, abundant tannins and generous oak but all in an XL kind of balance, with the ingredients for a slow development in bottle. It has the textbook balsamic and minty notes of many wines from the Maipo, hints of nutmeg and cola nut, quite showy but at the same time serious. It’s full-bodied and has plenty of tannins and power.”
–Wine Advocate

Domus Aurea 2018 received a 94 point rating: “Toasty, rich, and juicy; smooth with bright berry fruit, rounded and fresh.”
–Anthony Dias Blue

Domus Aurea 2017 received a 95 point rating: “The wine is ripe and powerful, to the point that the oak seems to be absorbed almost immediately. It’s expressive and open with a more extrovert personality. It’s full-bodied, juicy and powerful and with very tasty and spicy flavors.”
–Wine Advocate

Alba de Domus 2018 received a 92 point rating,“This savory red is silky and refined in feel, with singed bay leaf and Nyons olive notes to the black cherry and plum core. Buoyed by fresh acidity, this finishes with fine tannins and details of singed orange peel. Drink now through 2030. ”
–Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator

Alba de Domus 2017 received a 92 point rating: “The 2017 Alba de Domus shows some toasty aromas and abundant ripe fruit. It’s a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, quite different from previous years with a lot more Merlot. It matured in 90% new French oak barrels for 16 to 18 months, and the wine still feels quite marked by the élevage.”
–Wine Advocate

Alba de Domus 2017 scored 92 points: “ A spectacular Cabernet for $40, and a threat to examples costing much more, with marvelous texture that is simultaneously structured and smooth, with ultra-fine tannins and beautifully integrated wood. The fruit, acidity, oak and tannin are all so beautifully proportioned that the wine is harmonious at every point from the first sip to the last sensation from the long, long finish. This was still fantastic when re-tasted after 24 hours, and though that suggests that it will age nicely, it is so delicious now that few bottles will survive for long after a first bottle is tasted.”
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

Domus Aurea 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon received a 97 point rating: “It’s the most elegant Domus to date, with a level of precision that is not easy to achieve. While it keeps the classical Domus style and the Maipo character, it’s a lot subtler, fresh and balanced.”
–Robert Parker, Wine Advocate

Domus Aurea 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon received an excellent review: “Fresh cherries and hidden chocolate present themselves with freshness and balance. Something else was on the nose and a mystery until the second glass – a soft eucalyptus note that was truly enticing. On the palate, the purple and black fruits danced in merriment and were only calmed down with the earthiness of the region. Wine maker Jean-Pascal Lacaze produced one of the better wines coming out of this region. Perhaps the best drinking Cabernet Sauvignon wines I have experienced from Chile.”
–Michael Kelly, Californiawinesandwineries.com

Domus Aurea 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon received a 93 point rating: “A value wine is one that offers outstanding quality for the price. While the Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon is on the pricier side for Chilean wine, its high quality still makes it an exceptional value. Powerful aromas of dark fruit, violets, and smoky oak. Broad in the mouth with a silky texture and layers of dark fruit married to savory herbs and well-integrated toasty oak. A youthful, focused wine with fine firm tannins that will improve still further with a couple of years aging. Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.”
–International Wine Review

93 points awarded to 2015 Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon: “The 2015 is quiet and mannered, with firm black-currant juiciness and eucalyptus scents that bring to mind the trees at the vineyards edges. The chocolate notes of oak add to the saturation of the texture, the wine needing bottle age to fully evolve towards elegance.”
–Wine & Spirits Magazine, February 2020

Domus Aurea 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon received a 93 point rating: “Deep ruby color with spice present on both the nose and palate. Luscious and balanced with ripe plum flavors, it’s among Chile’s finest.”
–Anthony Dias Blue, May 2019

2014 Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon receives 96 points: “Balanced and elegant. Notes of mint and eucalyptus, intermixed with hints of spices (cola nut and Jamaica pepper), and it’s quite aromatic, with cassis aromas and good ripeness. It has the Domus character, which is what they search for, as well as the wild character from the mountains and the stones, with that dry sensation and somewhat austere palate… a textbook Cabernet.”
–Wine Advocate, October 2018

Two Domus Aurea vintages scored well with Wine Enthusiast:

93 points 2013 Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon
90 points 2014 Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon
–Wine Enthusiast, December 2018

92 points, 2014 Domus Aurea Cabernet Sauvignon! “Lusciously spiced, featuring a deep well of dark fruit flavors that are flanked by alluring accents of dried mint. Mocha, cream and dark chocolate details show on the sculpted finish, with cigar box notes. ”
–Wine Spectator, November 2018

Escarlata

Escarlata Red Blend 2019 received a score of 90 points: “Dark ruby red. The Escarlata Red Blend is a good bistro style wine with a spicy dark fruited nose and a soft, layered palate of dark red berries with tobacco and earthy notes. There’s good acidity and firm tannins.”
–International Wine Review, September 2021

Funckenhausen

Funckenhausen Cofermented Malbec Riesling 2023 received 90 points: “Refreshing blue-fruited character with notes of violets, crushed herbs and stone. Juicy and savory with a chalky texture to its tannins and a medium body. So vivid and fresh with a succulent finish.”
–James Suckling

Funckenhausen Cofermented Malbec Riesling 2023 received 90 points: “Jimena López makes this unusual red by co-fermenting Malbec and 6% Riesling, to produce something Argentinian with a German twist. It’s a surprisingly successful cuvée with lovely perfume and fruit purity, bramble and mulberry fruit, tangy acidity and a twist of lime.”
–Tim Atkin

Funckenhausen wines received excellent reviews from Restaurant Wine:

Funckenhausen Rosé 2021:
“Light pink color. Round and medium full bodied, this is a delicately flavored wine (plum, white peach, with floral overtones), with good balance, and a dry finish. Very good value.”
Funckenhausen Cabernet Sauvignon 2021:
“By the liter–and good value. The 2021 Cabernet is ripely flavored (cassis, plum, berry), lightly oaked, and balanced, with a lingering, lightly oaky finish.”
Funckenhausen Malbec Blend 2021:
“By the liter–and good value. The Malbec Blend is a round, full bodied wine that is fruity in flavor (plum, cherry, red licorice), with herbal, peppery overtones, and a lingering finish. Has a hint of oak, and light tannin.”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine, June 2023

Funckenhausen Malbec Blend 2021 received 93 points: “Blackberries, blueberries and hints of dried meat. Dried flowers, too. Very aromatic. Medium-to full-bodied with creamy tannins and a delicious, juicy finish.”
–James Suckling

Funckenhausen Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 received 91 points: “A firm, silky red with berry and cherry aromas and flavors. Medium body, fine tannins and a fruity finish. Delicious and focused.”
–James Suckling

Funckenhausen Malbec 2020 was named to VinePair’s list The 14 Best Malbecs for 2022. “A fun name and profile, Funckenhausen’s Malbec is a juicy blend of rich red fruits and notes of blackberry. With its easy screw cap and affordable price, you’ll want to bring this along to your next gathering for casual easy sipping.”
–VinePair

Gillmore

Gillmore Aglianico del Maule 2021 received 92 points: “It’s good to see Aglianico, the great grape of Campania, planted and thriving in Chile. Picked last of all the Gillmore reds, it has the concentration, focus, grip and intensity that you’d expect, with plum skin, damson and tobacco leaf flavours, some wild Mediterranean herbs and a firm, sturdy finish.”
–Tim Atkin

Gillmore Vermentino del Maule 2021 received 90 points: “Presents engaging aromas of toasted almond, hyacinth and spiced pear that lead to a round palate of baked apple, with notes of preserved lemon and mineral acidity lending tension midpalate. Fresh and clean finish, with a lingering chalky note.”
–Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator

Gillmore Mariposa Pais Rosé 2021 received an excellent review from Restaurant Wine: “Medium full purplish red color. Ripe in flavored, medium full in body, and balanced, this is an appealing wine with cherry and plum-like flavors, and a long aftertaste. Great value.”

–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine

Gillmore wines received excellent scores from Vinous:

Gillmore Aglianico del Maule 2020, 92 points
“The fruit-forward nose is perfumed with sour cherry and dried flower aromas plus a whiff of oak shavings. Light and structured in the mouth, the ample but channeled palate is nimble with tart acidity.”
Gillmore Collezione del Maule 2020, 92 points
“The complex nose offers pink pepper, jasmine and sour cherry along with dried flowers. In the mouth its structured but refreshing with an unexpectedly nimble flow.”
Gillmore Mariposa Field Blend 2020, 90 points
“An indulgent, easygoing red with a juicy, refreshing mouthfeel and medium body.”
–Joaquin Hidalgo, June 2023

Gillmore Mariposa Field Blend received 92 points: “What a fragrant nose of crushed raspberries, violets, nutmeg, poached plums, mushrooms and cinnamon stick. Flavorful, bright and juicy, with fine yet firm tannins and a medium body.”
–James Suckling

Gillmore wines received excellent scores in Tim Atkin’s 2023 Chile Report:

Gillmore Aglianico del Maule 2020, 95 points
“This is the fourth release of an Aglianico from Andrés Sánchez and the best yet in my opinion. Aged in neutral barrels to let the variety and its granitic terroir speak, this is concentrated, rich yet well balanced, with violet and garrigue aromas, plum and bramble fruit and a lively, refreshing finish.”
Gillmore Collezione del Maule 2020, 93 points
“A unique Chilean blend that’s entirely made with Italian varieties: a base of Primitivo complemented by 48% Cesanese, Dolcetto and Sagrantino. Intense and deeply coloured, with aromas of garrigue and menthol, serious tannins, sappy acidity and fig and plum skin flavours.”
Gillmore Mariposa Field Blend 2020, 90 points
“Pairing Cabernet Franc with 25% each of Merlot and Syrah, with ageing in neutral oak, it’s compact, dense and chewy with chocolate, dried herb and damson flavours and a refreshing finish”

Gillmore wines received excellent scores from Luis Gutierrez of Wine Advocate:

Gillmore Aglianico del Maule 2020, 91 points
“The 2020 Aglianico del Maule is a Greek variety planted in the south of Italy that takes long élevage in oak and keeps black berry fruit and has structure and good tannins. It’s serious, full-bodied and with a lively palate with bright acidity and a tasty and almost salty feeling to it.”
Gillmore Collezione del Maule 2020, 90 points
“It’s floral, creamy with some spicy oak, with 14.5% alcohol, good freshness and acidity, with structure and abundant tannins.”
Gillmore Mariposa Field Blend 2020, 92 points
“It’s aromatic, fresh and perfumed, spicy but not green, with 14.4% alcohol and very good freshness and acidity parameters with very fine tannins. Structured without weight. Delicious.”

Gillmore Vermentino del Maule 2020 received 92 points: “This has aromas of chopped pears, spiced apples, honeysuckle, cloves, cedar and smoked almonds. It’s full-bodied with a caressing, oily texture, balanced by vibrant acidity. Deliciously spicy and flavorful with excellent length.”
–James Suckling

Gillmore Vermentino del Maule 2020 received 91 points: “Andrés Sánchez and Daniella Gillmore have made a specialty out of Italian grapes and very successful they are too. This is the début vintage of their lightly wooded Vermentino, showing white flower, clove and citrus flavours and a hint of blanched almond bitterness.”
–Tim Atkin

Gillmore Vigno Carignan 2015 received 94 points from Wine Review Online: “What is most important is the wine’s thrilling combination of fruity, meaty, and savory characters — all of which are so harmonious and integrated that tasting this is like twirling a gem to see differing facets of a single object. Moreover, the oak, fruit, acidity and tannin are all singing in unison right now, so this is ready to rip if you can find it, though there’s no rush. The wine itself is impossible not to admire, and to relish.”
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

Gillmore Mariposa Carignan 2019 received 90 points from Wine Enthusiast: “Slightly gritty blackberry and licorice aromas lead to a tight and grabby palate. Typical of Maule Carignan, this tastes of dark plum and blackberry, while notes of herbs and chocolate add some complexity to a rubbing, tannic finish.”
–Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast

Gillmore Mariposa Red Blend 2018 received 90 points from Wine & Spirits: “Cool and rooty, this red-fruited wine is a 50-50 blend of syrah and merlot dry-farmed at the Gillmores’ estate. The blend has woodland-mushroom scent, notes of beets and tomato leaf, cool, floral and spicy. It’s an elegant wine for a peppery, thick-cut T-bone steak, grilled with lemon and olive oil.”
–Wine & Spirits, October 2021

Gillmore Mariposa Carignan 2019 is a Wine & Spirits Best Buy: “Scents of rosehip tea and spruce tips lend this wine to brisk, resinous spice. With its bitter chocolate tannins and earthen red fruit, it’s a wine for steak frites.”
–Wine & Spirits, October 2021

Gillmore Mariposa Pais 2019 received a score of 91 points: “This is a beautiful rendition of Chile’s País grape (known in California as the Mission grape). Showing appealing, fresh cherry, pomegranate and cranberry fruit, it’s a refreshing, light wine that’s a little more weighty alternative to the País rosé. Made in small batches from dry farmed, old vines.” –International Wine Review, September 2021

2015 Gillmore Vigno Carignan received a 94 point rating: “I love the herbal complexity to this on the nose with dried rose petals, lilacs and sage. Very integrated on the palate with red fruit,rolling through medium chewy tannins and painting a delicate but complex picture. ”
–James Suckling, Top 100 Wines from Chile, December 2019

2014 Gillmore Vigno Carignan received a 93 point rating: “Fermented in open stainless steel vats and aged for 18 months in barriques, during which time it was racked three times. It’s very consistent with the house style, perfumed and aromatic with a heady blend of Mediterranean herbs and flowers, less minty perhaps.”
–Wine Advocate, January 2016

2014 Gillmore Vigno Carignan received a 96 point rating: “100% Carignan from 60 year old vines, 18 months aged in neutral French oak, unfiltered, two week maceration before malolactic in oak barrels. One of the driest of the selection that comes in part from the terroir – only morning sun on sloped vineyards. Very fresh, with mouth-puckering tannins and well integrated oak.”
–Tim Atkin, February 2018

2014 Gillmore Vigno Carignan gets 94 points and is among the Top 100 South American wines of 2018 by James Suckling. “Lovely carignan with slate, granite and blueberry aromas. Full body, round and juicy tannins and a polished and caressing finish. I love the texture and character to this red.”
–James Suckling, December 2018

Gran Verano

Gran Verano Sauvignon Blanc 2022 received an excellent review: “This box wine is a clear, clean, crisp Sauvignon Blanc with varietally correct aromas and flavors. It’s a light wine both in bouquet and concentration and pleasantly flavored of tart citrus and fresh herbs. An outstanding value at its price point.”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

A “Best Buy” and 87 points for Gran Verano Sauvignon Blanc. “It is rare that a boxed wine scores this well, but the Gran Verano SB is a nice, honest and clean with ample crispness and snap; fresh and cleansing.”
–Wine Enthusiast

Maquis

93 points awarded to Maquis Rosé 2023: “Made without added sulphites, this is a crunchy, scented, beautifully judged rosado from Rodrigo Romero, made with free run Malbec and 35% Cabernet Franc. Lees-aged for three months, it has a grassy top note and a mineral-fresh core of pomegranate and red cherry.”
–Tim Atkin

93 points awarded to Maquis Cabernet Franc 2020: “An impressively fresh cabernet franc with spiced currants, strawberries, black olives and some dried herbs and red pepper. Full-bodied on the palate with juicy fruit and tight, nicely chewy tannins.”
–James Suckling

91 points awarded to Maquis Carmenere 2020: “A well-made, reductive carmenere showing plenty of roasted red peppers, herbs, dark olives and spices. Pretty fruity with fresh strawberries and silky tannins. More upfront but fresh and polished.”
–James Suckling

95 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2019: “Part of a brilliant current range of red wines from Rodrigo Romero and Maquis, Lien is a very good value assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Carmenère. Graphite, bay leaf and green salad aromas segue into a palate of sweet spices, filigree tannins, blueberry, cassis and black cherry fruit and a bright, balanced finish.”
–Tim Atkin

94 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2019: “A nice touch of reductive character. Cocoa powder savoriness to the black cherries, dried herbs and tobacco leaf. A twist of cigar box. Very polished on the palate with natural, fresh acidity and a supple mouthfeel. Refined, silky and long.”
–James Suckling

93 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2019: “The 2019 Lien, their first wine produced since 2003, was produced with a blend of 46% Cabernet Franc, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Carménère fermented with selected yeasts in stainless steel, and after malolactic, it was transferred to barrel, where it matured for 18 months. It was bottled with 14.5% alcohol, a little riper than the 2018 that I tasted next to it but still with an elegant profile and very fine tannins, balanced, fresh and young, with the ingredients to evolve nicely in bottle.”
–Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate

93 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2019: “A complex blend that opens with an elegant display of petrichor, fresh raspberry and a hint of amaretto on a silky frame. This red’s lively acidity unlocks a second tier of deeper flavors including graphite, crème de cassis and chocolate that linger nicely around fine, loamy tannins. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère.”
–Aaron Romano, Wine Spectator

92 points awarded to Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: “A ripe but fresh cabernet sauvignon with plenty of fruit. Rich strawberries, dark cherries and spices on the fruity, full-bodied palate. Nicely chewy with juicy, fresh fruit.”
–James Suckling

Maquis Lien 2018 received an excellent review from Restaurant Wine: “Outstanding Cabernet Franc blend, the 2018 is velvety in texture, finely flavored (cassis, herbs, mint, red licorice, toast), well balanced, and quite long on the finish. Great value.”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine, June 2023

91 points awarded to Maquis Carmenere 2019: “Maquis rarely produce varietal wines, preferring to add other grapes to enhance complexity. This Carmenère is a case in point, supported by 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot. Sappy, structured and lightly wooded, it’s fresh and leafy rather than vegetal with fine grained tannins and a top note of cinnamon spice.”
–Tim Atkin

90 points awarded to Maquis Carmenere 2019: “Aromas and flavors of green olives, redcurrants and spices, wrapped by firm, fresh tannins in the fluent, medium-bodied center-palate. Well balanced.”
–James Suckling

94 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2018: “2018 was a cooler year, and the 2018 Lien, produced with 60% Cabernet Franc, 29% Carménère and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, is an unusual blend with high Carménère and low Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a blend decided each vintage, and the result is very peppery, with lots of freshly cracked peppercorns, herbal and floral, quite aromatic. It has a medium-bodied palate, fine, sweet tannins and a disguised 14.1% alcohol.”
–Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

92 points awarded to Maquis Lien 2018: “Elegant, expressive and complex, offering a spice and gravel inlay to the floral, thyme-laced strawberry and raspberry flavors, with a trace of green peppercorn checking in on the finish as the core flavors linger around fine tannins.”
–Wine Spectator

92 points awarded to Maquis Rosé 2022: “A very pure and attractive rosé showing aromatics of fresh strawberries, red berries, peach skins and crushed stones. A textured, medium-bodied palate with a bone-dry center palate and good intensity. Lovely austerity here with a gastronomic feel.”
–James Suckling

91 points awarded to Maquis Rosé 2022: “About as pale as rosé gets before you run the risk of confusing it with a white wine, this is a very stylish, nuanced blend of Malbec with 35% Cabernet Franc. Fresh and aromatic, with boiled sweet and watermelon flavours, racy acidity and a tangy finish.”
–Tim Atkin

93 points awarded to Maquis Cabernet Franc 2019: “There tends to be something pleasantly restrained about the Maquis style of wines – they never seem heavy nor sweet – and, impressively, this is achieved without including any greener notes from the fruit. This is certainly true of this pure Cabernet Franc, which mixes some just-ripe red berry flavours, from fresh raspberry to cherry, with notes of cedar, and a touch of cigar box too. Medium-weight in body, with lots of dry fine tannin, it has a more classic feel to its texture, making it somewhat shy, but lovely to sip.”
–Patrick Schmitt, The Drinks Report

Maquis Lien 2018 was awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast: “Aromas of licorice, cumin and bay leaf are appealing on the nose of this blend made of 60% Cabernet Franc, 29% Carménère and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. On the palate, it’s fresh and slightly mineral, delivering red berries and eucalyptus. Savory notes and good acidity linger in the pleasant finish”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

90 points awarded to Maquis Rosé 2021: “Maquis may be much better known for its reds, but don’t ignore the charms of this earlypicked rosé. Malbec and 30% Cabernet Franc supply the raw material here, producing a savoury, dry, lightly wooded wine with raspberry and redcurrant flavours.”
–Tim Atkin, 2022 Chile Report

Maquis wines score 90+ from Vinous:

Maquis Rosé 2021, 90 points
“Easygoing and dry…a simple, satisfying wine.”
Maquis Cabernet Franc 2019, 92 points
“An expressive red with black currant and ash along with twists of herb and pencil box.”
Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, 90 points
“Smooth with good grip and a hint of freshness that brings measured energy. ”
Maquis Carmenere 2019, 92 points
“Smooth in the mouth with a bold expression.”
Maquis Lien Red Blend 2018, 93 point
“Taut with refined tannins, a mild, juicy flow and firm, complex structure.”

92 points awarded to Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: “Blackcurrants, stewed strawberries, grilled herbs, chocolate and oyster shell on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with sleek, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Supple and smooth with a flavorful finish.”
–James Suckling

91 points awarded to Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: “Ripe and elegant, with cigar leaf, salted meats, pennyroyal, and black olive. Plush, vibrant, and distinctive.”
–Meridith May, The Somm Journal, June/July 2022

90 points awarded to Maquis Carmenere 2018: “Earthy and spiced, with notes of blacktea tannins, root vegetables, and black olive. Pomegranate and brushy strawberry persist from the mid-palate through the finish.”
–Meridith May, The Somm Journal, June/July 2022

Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 was awarded 92 points by Wine Review Online, “A steal for $20….pair this with hard cheeses or something with both some fat (grilled pork or chicken sausage with apples) or fatty beef cuts like short ribs. The wine is both delicious and distinctive, but it is hardly the standard-issue Cab in this era, so use this accordingly. “
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

Maquis Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 was awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast, “This red displays delicate dried herbs, blackberry and red bell pepper aromas. The medium-bodied palate has soft tannins and enough acidity to lift up the plum and peppercorn flavors. It finishes with good length.”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Maquis Franco 2015 was was awarded 96 points by Tim Atkin: “The latest in a series of superb wines under this label, the 2015 Franco marries Cabernet Franc with 3% Carmenère from clay-rich soils. Made without new wood, this is violet-scented, stylish and layered with fresh acidity, fine tannins and a sense of balance that’s reminiscent of Right Bank Bordeaux. ”
–Tim Atkin

2013 Maquis Franco Cabernet Franc received a 92 point rating in the November issue of Wine Enthusiast.
–Wine Enthusiast, November 2019

90 points for the Maquis Viola 2013: “Intensely spicy, with loads of Asian spice notes rolled around the roasted plum and dark cherry flavors. Dried mint and dark chocolate details show on the finish. Carmenère and Cabernet Franc.”
–Wine Spectator, April 2018

Marichal

Marichal wines scored 90+ from International Wine Review:

Marichal Sauvignon Blanc 2023, 90 points
“Opens with scents of grapefruit and other citrus, and a light hint of herbs. This is an easy drinking, fresh tasting Sauvignon Blanc with moderate acidity, subtle citrus flavors, and a clean finish. Best of all, it’s just 12.5% alcohol and sells for a very reasonable price. An excellent sipping wine served cold. ”
Marichal Reserve Collection Albarino 2023, 92 points
“Medium yellow straw color. Displays a bouquet of melon and honeycomb with an herbal note. Full in the mouth with citrus and savory notes and an appealing stony minerality. Finishes long and crisp. ”
Marichal Reserve Tannat 2022, 90 points
“This is an easy drinking and easy-on-the-wallet Tannat, opening with lifted scents of dark berries and black cherry. It offers medium-weight drinking pleasure with light earthy notes complementing spicy dark red fruit. Nicely balanced with a clean finish. A good bistro wine. ”
Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat 2020, 92 points
“The Reserve Collection is a significant step up from the Premium Tannat. It offers a vibrant bouquet of dark cherry, plum, cassis, and tobacco leaf with nicely integrated oak. The mouth feel is round and suave with excellent depth of flavor at its core; there’s good acidity and firm, round tannins. ”

Marichal wines received excellent reviews in Tim Atkin’s 2023 Uruguay Report:

Marichal Tannat 2020, 90 points:
“Sometimes referred to as the bodega’s Tannat Clásico, this is its biggest production wine and is made entirely without oak. Showing the quality of the 2020 vintage, it’s a juicy, crunchy, perfumed red with smooth tannins and lots of cassis and bramble fruit.”
Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat 2020, 92 points:
“Marichal’s Reserve Tannat uses grapes from the estate’s older parcels, all of which are over 20 years of age. Aged mostly in older barrels, it has appealing plum and red cherry fruit, good focus and balance and a sappy, herbal finish”
Marichal Grand “A” Reserve Tannat 2020, 93 points:
“Marichal don’t make a Grand Reserve every year, but the 2018 certainly deserved to passmuster. This comes from a single parcel of 40-year-old vines and confirms that this is a bodega to watch. Serious, structured, dense yet well balanced, with lots of toasty oak, granular tannins, blackberry fruit and plenty of supporting acidity.”
–Tim Atkin

Marichal wines received excellent reviews from Restaurant Wine:

Marichal Tannat 2020:
“An outstanding ‘starter’ Tannat in a fruity, approachable style. The 2020 is round, full bodied, and well balanced; a wine with moderate depth, good flavor (plum, cranberry, guava), and a lingering aftertaste. Great value; can age a bit.”
Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat 2018:
“The Reserve is a terrific Tannat value; a medium rich wine with smooth texture, moderate tannin, good flavor (red currant, cherry, oak), and a firm, long finish”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine, June 2023

Marichal Grand Reserve “A” Tannat 2018 scored 92 points: “Juan Andrés Marichal is the fourth generation to farm this estate, first planted by his great-grandparents in 1916. This is a selection from a parcel of 45-year-old vines, aged in French and American oak barrels (30 percent new). It’s a big, black wine, very Canelones tannat in its austerity and salinity. At first, it seems fully mature, but a day later, the wine’s gentle structure feels athletic in its unselfconscious elegance. Ready to take on a steak.”
–Wine & Spirits

Marichal Tannat 2020 scored 90 points: “This wine begins with floral and red berry aromas followed by hints of dried herbs. Unoaked and fruit-forward, it has smooth tannins, vibrant acidity and a mineral texture. Juicy red plum and cherry flavors lead to a pleasant finish. ”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat 2019 received an excellent review: “Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat is good example of wine made using the national grape of Uruguay. Tannic, sure, this is tannat. But the balance of quality tannins, good acidity, and decanting make this an enjoyable drinker that works especially well with fatty meats. Delivers more gusto than cabernet sauvignon, thus the interest from big red wine aficionados.”
–Gus Clemens on Wine

Marichal wines received excellent reviews from Silvina Palacio’s Thoughts of La Wina :

Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat 2019
“This seductive red reveals layers of jammy black cherry, prune and leather notes. Velvety, round and ample with a touch of spice from spending 12 months in oak.”
Marichal Grand Reserve “A” Tannat 2018
“Massive and spectacular! This hearty red is made from 100% Tannat grapes from 40 year old vineyards. Grand Reserve “A” features cocoa, blackberry and prune notes with espresso hints. Very expressive and extracted, a Wow me Tannat for sure!”

2021 Marichal Sauvignon Blanc scored 92 points, “Quite Bordeaux-like in style, with bracing acidity carrying full throttle lemon and soft notes of asparagus and grass. Lively stony minerality knits the elements together through a long, zesty finish. There’s real complexity to this clean, crisp and dry refresher.”
–Rich Cook, Wine Review Online

Marichal wines received excellent reviews from International Wine Review:

2021 Marichal Sauvignon Blanc, 90 points: “A bright, fresh and varietally correct Sauvignon Blanc from the Canelones region of Uruguay. There’s good depth of flavor and bright acidity, resulting a refreshing wine with lemon, grapefruit, and green apple aromas and flavors. Very good, long and rich finish. Excellent value!”
2019 Marichal Reserve Collection Tannat, 91 points: “Dark ruby. A clear step up from the regular bottling, the Reserve Collection Tannat offers a liqueur-like bouquet of blackberry, cassis, and hints of toasty oak. It’s full and round feeling in the mouth with the proper balance, nice flavor depth, firm but accessible tannins, and a lingering finish.”
2018 Marichal Grand Reserve “A” Collection Tannat, 93 points, “Opaque in color, the “A” Grand Reserve is an outstanding wine in every respect. Beginning with a multifaceted bouquet of dark berry, perfumed cedar, and a note of loamy soil, on the mouth filling palate it’s superbly balanced with a smooth, silky texture and a long, focused finish. One of Uruguay’s most refined Tannats.”
–International Wine Review, August 2022

2021 Marichal Sauvignon Blanc received an excellent review: “A substantial sauv blanc from a quality maker in South America’s third-largest wine-producing country. Smooth, rich, substantial body for a sauv blanc that plays well on your palate, especially after air time in your glass.”
–Gus Clemens on Wine

93 points for the Marichal Grand Reserve “A” Tannat 2018: “This comes from a single parcel of 40-year-old vines and confirms that this is a bodega to watch. Serious, structured, dense yet well balanced, with lots of toasty oak, granular tannins, blackberry fruit and plenty of supporting acidity.”
–Tim Atkin, Uruguay 2021 Special Report

Marichal Tannat 2019 received an excellent review: “Full bodied red showing outstanding espresso notes, complemented by ripe blackberry and prune aromas. Super round and velvety structure. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not austere and super tannic like other tannats that require time to soften up.”
–Silvina Palacio, Thoughts of La Wina, January 2022

Marichal Tannat received a score of 90 points and was named to Wine & Spirits’ Top 100 Wines of 2020 List. “Juan Andrés and Alejandro Marichal are the brothers making the wine at this family estate 15 miles north of Montevideo. Their latest tannat is a sophisticated red for $15, with stamina and shape defining the wine. Its bright red fruit fits within a lean structure, youthfully restricted by the tannic edges.”
–Wine & Spirits Magazine, February 2020

Penalolen

2019 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon scored 90 points: “Wines from Peñalolén in Maipo Valley have a distinctive spicy and herbaceous character that makes them unique. This one isn’t the exception. It opens with aromas of eucalyptus, licorice and black pepper. The palate is full bodied, with prominent toasted oak flavors followed by fig, herbs and light notes of paprika wrapping up the slightly warm finish. ”
–Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast

2019 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon scored 90 points: “The super balsamic 2019 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon has tons of aromatic herbs and exotic spices, reminiscent of a vermouth, with notes of vanilla and cinnamon, nutmeg and cola nut. It’s ripe and exuberant, with high ripeness and alcohol (14.9%) but the usual XL balance. ”
–Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate

2018 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon scored 92 points: “This is the richest, most dramatic rendition of this wine that I can recall…you should seek this out, try a bottle, and then load up if you like it as much as I do — which is very much. It is dark and deeply flavored and extremely expressive in both aroma and flavor, and also impressive in potential.”
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

2018 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon scored 91 points: “Almost opaque in color, the Peñalolen Cabernet is distinct in its herbaceousness and cocoa and cherry aromas and flavors. Robust tannins suggest pairing this wine with cuisine that needs a firm counterpoint. All told, a respectable wine for the price.”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

2016 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon 91 points: “From the younger vines at Viña Quebrada de Macul… eucalyptus influence, doesn’t diminish the wine’s gentle texture and pretty black-currant flavor. Rather, it helps capture the cool mountain woodland feel of the Andes.”
–Wine & Spirits, June 2019

2016 Peñalolen Cabernet Sauvignon 91 points: “Showing a rich perfume of blackberry and cassis, this Domus Aurea holds up to the lofty reputation of its forebearers. It’s an elegant wine, silky in texture, with deep, rich flavors on a pure, superbly balanced palate.”
–International Wine Review, September 2018

90 points 2016 Penalolen Cabernet Sauvignon, as reviewed by Tasting Panel’s Anthony Dias Blue.
–Tasting Panel, October 2018

Quintay

90 points awarded to 2022 Quintay Clava Sauvignon Blanc: “This is a clean and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc showing hints of herbs, grass and green citrus on the nose. There’s good depth of flavor, firm acidity, a full mouth feel, and a long finish. 13% alc. Tastes like a more expensive wine. Superb value!”
–Don Winkler, International Wine Review

90 points awarded to 2022 Quintay Clava Pinot Noir: “Great value from Ximena Klein, this juicy, perfumed Pinot Noir has appealing rose petal and vanilla aromas, a palate of summer pudding fruit, a touch of granitic tension and supple,caressing tannins. Very drinkable.”
–Tim Atkin

Quintay Clava Pinot Noir Rosé received an excellent review from Gus Clemens on Wine: “Light, fun, refreshing. Ideal summer sipper around pool, patio, porch, picnic—but versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of the year. Red fruit and good acidity. Simple sipper, but certainly nice for that. Invites a second glass, and then another. Works as an aperitif. Pair with charcuterie board; summer salads and fruit salads; light pasta dishes.”
–Gus Clemens, July 2023

Ricardo Santos

93 points awarded to 2020 Ricardo Santos Malbec: “This wine grows at the vineyard surrounding the Santos family’s winery, the vines planted in 1992. Powerful and earthy, it shows an inviting sandalwood complexity in the aromas, while the palate is all about jammy boysenberry power flecked with salinity. Aged in a mix of French and American barrels for six months, it wears its oak well, adding structure behind the vinous oomph. A bacchanalian malbec that makes you want to have ribeye and red wine for breakfast.”
–Wine & Spirits

2018 Ricardo Santos El Gran Malbec received an excellent review from Restaurant Wine: “As its name suggests, this is, in fact, a ‘grand’ Malbec: fleshy in texture, ripe and rich in flavor (blackberry, plum, cassis, blueberry, pepper, herbs, oak), well balanced, and very long and full on the finish. Outstanding value.”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine

92 points awarded to 2020 Ricardo Santos Semillon: “This delicious, versatile, highly distinctive wines is among the most under-appreciated bargains available in the USA. This shows delicious notes of tropical fruits, dried apricots, and fresh figs, along with nice spicy undertone and fine balancing acidity. Its versatility stems principally from its full body and broad texture, which enables it to pair beautifully with more robust dishes that are all-too-frequently paired with nothing but Chardonnay (e.g., swordfish, salmon, scallops, boudin blanc and the like). This is a fine sipping wine too, as it has enough acidity to stay fresh despite having real richness and breadth on the palate. This is one of only four Semillons in the world that compete at this ratio of quality to price.”
–Michael Franz, Wine Review Online

90 points awarded to 2017 Ricardo Santos Gran Malbec: “Saucy blackberry aromas are fully ripe while hinting at prune and earthy mulch. This thick-boned Malbec is chunky and fleshy in feel, with controlled roughness to the palate. Blackberry and prune flavors end with a touch of raisin on a chunky finish.”
–Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast

90 points awarded to 2015 Ricardo Santos Gran Reserva Malbec: “This bottling, culled from the family’s best plots, has the warm, earthy succor of Maipu fruit, deepened by the caramel of aging. It’s as soft and smooth as a raspberry coulee, with a gentle acidity.”
–Wine & Spirits Magazine

Ricardo Santos is a “legend of wine-making” and “the prophet of Malbec.”
–Argentina Wine Review, February 18, 2012

Tercos

2022 Tercos Sangiovese received a very good review: “A very good wine: youthful and fruity, with full body, cherry and strawberry flavor, and a medium long finish. Has a bit of tannin. Very good value. “
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine

91 points awarded to the 2021 Tercos Bonarda: “Delicious brambleberry and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium body, creamy tannins and a savory finish. Pine wood and berries in the finish.”
–James Suckling

Vermut Flores

Vermut Flores White Vermouth, 90 points: “This bittersweet blanc has a light gold hue and pear and vanilla aromas, plus a bit of overripe-fruit funk. The palate opens with pineapple and juicy red apple, leading to a finish tinged with lingering vanilla and creamy caramel.”
–Wine Enthusiast

Vermut Flores Red Vermouth received an excellent review from Restaurant Wine: “Outstanding red vermouth. Intense in both aroma and flavor, it is full bodied, rich, well balanced, and very long and full on the finish, tasting of blackberry, cherry liqueur.”
–Ronn Wiegand, Restaurant Wine, June 2023

Vermut Flores Rosé Vermouth is one of Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Spirits of the Year 2022 and received 94 points. “Look for a pretty blush hue and mild floral aroma with a fleeting berry hint. The palate echoes the juicy berry note, braced up with grapefruit pith bitterness and finishing with peach nectar and a mild floral exhale. Nice as a chilled aperitif. Best Buy.”
–Wine Enthusiast

Vermut Flores Rosé Vermouth, 94 points: “It’s easily the best Vermouth I’ve ever tasted, and it’s going in my next Negroni.”
–Rich Cook, Wine Review Online

Vermut Flores Rosé Vermouth, 93 points: “Light salmon pink, spicy nose, smooth and luscious, floral, rich, spicy and nicely balanced, long and charming.”
–Anthony Dias Blue, Blue Lifestyle

Vermut Flores Red Vermouth, 93 points: “Dark with a spicy nose, sweet, dense and juicy; smooth, complex, try it in a negroni.”
–Anthony Dias Blue, Blue Lifestyle