2013 Don Melchor

Blackcurrant, very rich fruit and lovely sweet spice oak to match. Fragrant and sophisticated and built to last. Perhaps just a little warm on the finish. (RH)

2012 is a short vintage, so the 2013 will be released towards the end of 2016. I tasted the 2013 Don Melchor, which contained 9% of Cabernet Franc to complement the Cabernet Sauvignon from Puente Alto in the Maipo Valley; the final blend was created from 23 lots of free-run juice wine and 39 lots of press wine. The blend is done with the help of Eric Boissenot (previously with his father Jacques). The wine matured in 66% new French oak barrels for some 15 months. I see this 2013 more in the line of the 2010 (and 2011). In fact, 2013 was a very cold year. The nose combines aromas of tobacco, iron and blood, dark cherries and some herbs. The palate shows something in between 2011 and 2012, medium to full-bodied with fruit, tannins and a slightly bitter finish. It should get polished with a little bit more time in bottle. 109,200 bottles produced. I also had the chance to preview the 2014 and 2015 vintages that were aging in barrel, still very young and primary.

2013 was cooler than most years. 9% Cabernet Franc. Blackish crimson. Broader crimson rim than some. Smells a bit simple and just slightly raw at the moment. Undeveloped, slightly salty aroma but very round and well-managed tannins. Great texture even if the flavours are still a little unformed. (JR)