Paseo 2006 Reserve Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon

Pronunciation

“Pah-SAY-oh Cah-burr-NAY Sow-vee-NYOH”

Blend

100% Cabernet Sauvignon; this wine spent 10 months in French oak barrels. 40% in 1 year old barrels, 40% in 2 year old barrels and 20% in 3 year old barrels

Color, Body, Nose, Flavors

COLOR: deep, ruby red; BODY: Full; NOSE: caramel, vanilla and smoky notes; FLAVOR: raspberry and blackcurrant (cassis)

Region Description

In 1980, Chilean wines accounted for only 0.3% of U.S. wine imports. Today, Chile is the fifth largest wine exporter in the world, outstripping Germany, Spain, Argentina and Portugal in exports to the U.S. The Maule Valley, in particular, is known for its superb reds.

Details

With its relatively low labor costs and abundant, inexpensive land, Chile was able to establish itself on the world market as a source of cheap bulk wines of varying quality. The industry boomed during the 1990s. By 2001, wine export earnings increased nearly 60-fold, and vineyard acreage grew by nearly 85%.

As wine consumers became more sophisticated, however, Chile’s jug-wine image began to work to its disadvantage, and the country does not have as clear a plan for maintaining its export momentum as Australia’s Strategy 2025, for example. An effort at organization is being made, however. Two years ago, the Association of Vineyards of Chile was formed, representing both large estates and smaller boutique wineries. The group’s mission is to create a unified image of Chilean wine on the world market.

As its perception changes, the world market is now recognizing Chile as a source of terrific values, challenging Bordeaux, Australia and California for producing quality Cabernet Sauvignons that deliver great quality for the price.

Vintner / Wine Maker

Founded in 1825, the Carta Vieja estate is now in its seventh generation of ownership by the del Pedregal family and remains 100% family-owned and –managed.

Awards

2008 World Wine Championships, bronze, recommended

Food Pairings

It is essential to match a Cabernet Sauvignon with foods that can stand up to its strong tannins. Red meats such as lamb, beef and game are excellent partners, as is hearty poultry such as goose or duck. It also pairs well with strong cheese, and the chocolate notes of this variety make it a surprising match for chocolate desserts, as well.

Other

This wine is unfiltered to enhance the flavor and character of the wine. Filter as necessary.