The Maipo River valley from which this wine comes from lies in the central region of Chile, an strategically situated area within the outskirts of Santiago and close to the main Chilean ports of Valparaíso and San Antonio. The Maipo valley it is known as an outstanding valley for wine growing due to its long tradition as a producer of renowned quality wines in areas between the Andes Mountains and the lower coastal range bordering the Pacific Ocean. These lands are situated in Pirque; in the higher part of the Valley, in the foothills of the mountains and become famous for their terroirs and the relevance of their vineyards. The Calicanto wine was elaborated with Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère and also small quantities of Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Malbec to increase complexity. These were hand harvested (March 15) and carried in boxes with about 13 kg from a yield of vineyard of 6.520 kg/hectare at a vineyard altitude of 777 m.a.s.l. on a clay loam soil. Then, bunches selection, destemming and soft crushing of grapes processes took place and finally a cool maceration of 12 months in French oak barrels.
El Principal Calicanto Assemblage
El Principal, Calicanto, Assemblage, 750 ml
Variety: Assemblage
Viña El Principal, Pirque, Maipo Valley
Composition: 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Carménère, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Syrah and 4% Malbec
Vintage: 2012
Oenologist: Gonzalo Guzmán Cassanello and Patrick Léon
Pairing: This awesome wine should be pair with game meats, dishes featuring green peppercorns, or a variety of cheeses. Serve at 16-18°C (60-68°F).
Tasting notes:
Colour: Deep ruby red colour with brilliant clarity and medium viscosity in the glass.
Aromas: Forward black cherry and cassis are complemented by notes of red bell pepper, sun—dried fruits, toast, coffee, and vanilla.
Palate: Soft tannins from the middle palate through the firm, ever—so—slightly bitter finish, adds length to the structural elements. This full—bodied assembalge was aged in small oak barrels fot 12 months, which contributed toasty complexity to the gamut of rich fruit flavours. The mouth feel is balanced toward firmness, showcasing its aging potential.