Epu (Almaviva), Almaviva, Concha y Toro/Rothschild 2022

Refined sweet tobacco, black olives and hints of paprika, cedar, iron and anchovy-like savoriness. Refined sweet berries on the palate with a lovely savoriness. Medium-bodied and restrained, plush and generous, with fine tannins and a lengthy finish. 84% cabernet sauvignon, 10% carmenere, 3% merlot, 2% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot. Drink or hold.

The 2022 Epu leads with a poised yet charmingly rustic nose of ripe red fruits flanked by herbaceous, leathery accents. The palate is concentrated and full-bodied, with an opulent, forward richness that transitions to a decedent, chocolate-tinged finish of rich tannins and a lingering herbal, menthol-laced conclusion. A well-made balance between style and place, this serves as a pleasurable and accessible introduction to the more poised, nuanced Almaviva. It's a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carménère, 3% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot aged 12 months in 10% new French oak.