Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Carmenere, Petit Verdot
75cl * 13.5% ABV * D.O. Acongagua Valley, Chile
Don Maximiano Founders Reserve is arguably the most important wine in Chile's history. It's named in honour of Don Maximiano Errazuriz who founded Vina Errazuriz in 1870. During Chile's political upheaval in the mid-20th century, the company managed to hold onto the prize vineyards in the Acongagua Valley, planted as they were with some of the oldest French varietals in the region.
Only grapes from the esteemed Max I, Max II and Max V vineyards go into this Cabernet Sauvignon-heavy blend, while the blend of Bordeaux varietals (Malbec, Carmenere and Petit Verdot) creates a wine that is of Bordeaux-roots, but with distinctly Chilean DNA. After the fruit is hand-harvested, fermentation takes place in small stainless-steel tanks, followed by up to 30 days of maceration and 22 months’ maturation in French oak barrels, 65% of them new.
The 2020 vintage is a a poised and expressive wine, combining vibrant red and black fruit with subtle notes of cocoa, clove, and violets. With fine structure and natural freshness, this vintage carries both generosity and elegance. Well worth cellaring but equally captivating in its youth. Superb alongside roast lamb, venison, or beef wellington, it also pairs elegantly with rich stews or aged hard cheeses.