Under-appreciated as a noble variety and only believed to be fine enough for blending, Francois was convinced of Carmenere’s potential for finesse and complexity. Alka is the fruit of this quest. Alka (the Aaucano word for the French national emblem, the cockerel) is the one of the rare 100% Carmenere wines and serves as proof of this grape variety’s nobility.
VINIFICATION
Pre-fermentation cold maceration, for 6-8 days followed by alcoholic fermentation in small vats for 75-80% of the produce. The rest is vinifed directly in barrels. Regular cap plunging during the fermentation process. Long maceration (20 days on average) to add complexity and structure. Malolactic fermentation in barrels followed by 3 months aging on the lees.
VARIETY: 100% Carmenere
APPELLATION: Colchagua Valley, Chile – Apalta (high terraces of alluvions from the Tinguiririca River), Lolol (granite from the coastal range terroir).
ALCOHOL: 15.1%
TASTING NOTES
COLOR: Dark cherry red color, bright and very deep
AROMA: The nose is intense and complex. Shows hints of dark fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry) well mixed with notes of eucalyptus and spice such as black pepper and cinnamon.
FLAVOR: Powerful structure with unctuous tannins that reflect the perfect ripeness of the grape. The backbone, well-balanced by the acidity, gives a long and complex finish, with aromas of plum marmalade mixed with spices.
UPC# 6 35335 63021 1
6pk/750ML