Winemakers
Rodrigo Zamorano
Technical Data
Acidity
5.0
Alcohol
13.5%
Sugar
2.3 g/L
Caliterra
Caliterra
Reserva Merlot 2017
Background
These are modern and elegant wines in which we seek to reflect the particular characteristics of our terroir. These are distinctive and flavorful wines to be enjoyed on any occasion.
Appellation
Colchagua Valley, Chile
Varietal Composition
95% Merlot, 5% Malbec
Vintage Notes
Some spring frosts in the colder zones lasted up to four days in a row. In more temperate zones we had a few days of low temperatures that clearly affected the development of buds, shoots, and bunches. This, along with the scant rainfall and higher-than-usual temperatures, resulted in reduced fruit set and ultimately lower yields. The summer was very hot; temperatures approached 40ºC in some sectors of the Valley. Grape ripening was affected to a degree, because the plants shut down and stopped working during the heatwaves, resulting in some dehydration but no major consequences. The good news is that, at the time of writing, March temperatures are lower and the nights cooler, which is producing more aromas, better color, and good tannins.
Winemaking
Fermentation was performed in stainless steel tanks at 24°- 26°C. The wine was aged in 30 % oak barrels for 7 to 9 months in 2nd- and 3rd-used barrels during which time the malolactic fermentation took place. The wine was then bottled January 2018.
Tasting Notes
This wine has a deep and very lively ruby red color. It feels fresh on the nose, intensely aromatic and fruity, with berries such as raspberry and cassis complemented with notes of coffee and tobacco. The mouthfeel is voluptuous and fresh with juicy fruit flavors and a vibrant acidity that stand out and allow predicting a good longevity.
