The 2019 Almaviva Almaviva is a remarkable red wine that showcases the best of Maipo Valley in Chile. With a deep and enticing red color, this wine is a proprietary blend that combines the finest grapes from the region. The nose is remarkably detailed and complex, starting with notes of blackberry, black currant, and blueberry. As you delve deeper, balsamic aromas ranging from camphor to ash appear, along with a subtle hint of violets. All of these aromas come packaged in a delicate cigar box.
On the palate, the Almaviva Almaviva is full-bodied and round, with saturated tannins that give it a velvety texture. The wine is well-balanced and has a generous concentration of flavors. Concentrated black cherry and damson fruits take center stage, complemented by cardamom pod and white pepper spices. The wine has a serious personality and focus, with confident tannins that add structure and depth.
This vintage of Almaviva benefited from a moderately warm year, allowing the Carmenere grape to shine. The Carmenere adds herbal freshness to the wine and changes the aromatic profile compared to previous vintages. It displays good density and a distinct herbal character. The wine has a dry, serious finish with notes of camphor and a balsamic touch.
The Almaviva Almaviva spent 18 months in French oak barrels, 75% of which were new, adding complexity and depth to the wine. With an alcohol content of 15.0%, this wine is bold and powerful, yet elegant and refined.
Renowned wine critics have praised the 2019 Almaviva Almaviva. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 95+ points, highlighting its full-bodied and round nature, as well as its long and spicy finish. Jane Anson also gave it a score of 95, noting its power, balance, and personality. Wine Spectator awarded it 93 points, emphasizing its elegant floral plum and cherry flavors balanced against a well-structured frame. Decanter gave it an outstanding score of 98, praising its fragrant nose and refined palate. James Suckling awarded it 97 points, describing it as a very refined and polished red with subtle flavors. Vinous also gave it 96 points, noting its remarkable detail and creamy flow. Lastly, Wine Enthusiast awarded it 93 points, highlighting its structure, acidity, and smooth lingering finish.
Overall, the 2019 Almaviva Almaviva is a truly exceptional wine that showcases the best of Chilean winemaking. With its complexity, balance, and depth of flavors, it is a wine that will delight connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts alike.