The 2018 De Martino Single Vineyard Las Cruces is a proprietary red blend from the Cachapoal Valley in Chile. This wine, produced by De Martino, is a field blend primarily composed of Carménère and Malbec. With an alcohol content of 13.5%, the wine is sealed with a cork closure.
Vinous awarded this wine a score of 94, highlighting its unique characteristics. Joaquín Hidalgo of Vinous notes, "Bright purple in the glass, the nose has plums and spices with a hint of fine, provocative violets." He describes the wine as "austere and juicy," emphasizing its compact structure and tannin-forward profile. Hidalgo concludes that this is "a different kind of Chilean wine."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the 2018 Las Cruces a slightly higher score of 95. The reviewer, LG, remarked that this vintage is particularly noteworthy, calling it the "best year for this field blend." The review elaborates on the blend's composition, indicating that the Malbec makes up approximately 75% of the blend and was harvested at the peak of ripeness. The Carménère, still green at the time of harvest, contributes to the wine's "spark on the palate and a spicy touch."
LG praises the wine's overall balance and depth, describing it as "serious, balanced and deep" with "very fine, refined tannins." The review also notes a "sensation of energy, inner power and elegance," underscoring the exceptional nature of this vintage. A total of 4,824 bottles were produced, filled in October 2019.
In summary, the 2018 De Martino Single Vineyard Las Cruces stands out for its precise blending and unique profile. With high praise from both Vinous and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, this wine is celebrated for its complexity, structure, and elegance, making it a noteworthy addition to any wine enthusiast's collection.