Technical Notes
This Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the foothills of the Andes mountains and the middle reaches of the Rapel Valley. It is grown on the hillsides overlooking the river Cachapoal. Stony soils, clear skies and cool nights help grow concentrated fruit with excellent tannin content. Upon arrival at the winery, all grapes were destemmed and crushed to stainless steel tanks and inoculated with selected yeasts. Fermentation occurred quickly, reaching temperatures of 77ºF. The wine was immediately left to macerate for eight additional days to add structure and longevity. Half of the resulting must underwent malolactic fermentation in barrels and left to age for approximately eight months. The other half was kept on tanks. The wine was finally assembled, filtered and bottled. Total production was 18,000 cases.

About this Wine
A common expression heard in the wine industry is “Cabernet is King”. However, there are several different styles and approaches to Cabernet Sauvignon, so even if you narrow down your consumption to this particular grape, there is a very wide array to choose from. Casas del Bosque´s Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon aims to be an affordable, easy for everyday drinking kind of Cabernet. Sure, the tannic structure is there, but on a milder notch than what you would find on the Gran Reserva. There is a notorious presence of red and black fruit, with the spicier side gently tamed by the French oak. The secret comes from the origin of the grapes, planted mainly in the “Entre Cordilleras”, lower part of the Rapel Valley, as opposed to the Gran Reserva, which comes from the Andes foothills in Maipo. The result is a different style for the same grape, which will probably appeal to a broader audience.

Alcohol: 14.1% | pH: 3.65 | Total Acidity: 6.3 g/l | Residual Sugar: 3.0 g/l

Climate Conditions
Warm days and cool nights throughout the season. Average annual temperatures are around 61ºF with very large diurnal shifts in March, the month of the harvest. Yearly rainfall is over 600mm on average, falling mostly between May and September. Due to the age of the vines, crop levels reached only 7 tons/hectare 2.8 tons/acre.

Tasting Notes
Intense red color with a violet hue. The nose offers aromas of cassis, raspberries, mint and tobacco, accompanied by notes reminiscent of coconut, vanilla and white chocolate. This Cabernet Sauvignon fills the palate with good volume, accompanying the sensation of persistence with soft, round tannins.

Scores/Reviews
90 pts Joaquin Hidalgo - Vinous