Viña San Esteban, 'Rio Alto' Cabernet Sauvignon, 2023

'One-Liner'
A juicy, fruit-forward Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, packed with ripe cherries, gentle smoky notes and soft, rounded tannins, making for a wonderfully easy-going red.

Tasting Note
Deep ruby red in the glass, with inviting aromas of ripe dark cherries, blackberries and a delicate hint of smoke. The palate is generous and fruit-driven, bringing together juicy red and black fruits with a subtle savoury undertone. Soft, approachable tannins provide just enough structure, while a gentle freshness keeps everything nicely balanced. Smooth and satisfying on the finish, with lingering cherry fruit and a touch of warming spice.

Country: Chile
Region: Aconcagua Valley
Sub-Region: n/a
Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: 13%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Viña San Esteban's story began in 1974, when José Vicente Kusanovic purchased a small property beside the Aconcagua River, high in the foothills of the Chilean Andes. What started as a modest vineyard eventually grew into a family-owned winery, with José's son Horacio bringing a wealth of international experience to the business after studying oenology in Bordeaux and working at Château Mouton Rothschild in France and Chalone Vineyards in California. Together, they helped establish Viña San Esteban as a producer dedicated to capturing the distinctive character of the Aconcagua Valley, where warm sunshine, cooling mountain breezes and the influence of the nearby river create excellent conditions for growing grapes. The 'Rio Alto' range takes its inspiration from the Aconcagua River itself, whose crystal-clear waters descend from the Andes and flow past the estate's vineyards. Designed to celebrate the natural character of each grape variety, the Rio Alto Classic wines are carefully vinified and matured in stainless steel, preserving their fresh fruit flavours without the influence of oak. This Cabernet Sauvignon is a wonderfully approachable expression of the region, offering plenty of ripe fruit, gentle structure and a touch of smoky complexity, all wrapped up in a wine that's equally suited to a relaxed evening or a hearty meal.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Spanish-style lamb cutlets with rosemary, garlic and roast peppers
- Vegetarian: Wild mushroom and taleggio risotto
- Vegan: Roast celeriac with Puy lentils, braised shallots and peppercorn jus