Clos De Luz Massal 1945 Carmenere Almahue, Cachapoal Valley – 2021

Clos de Luz is a family-owned winery located in the revered Almahue Valley sub-district of the Cachapoal Valley, approximately 113kms South East of Santiago, 65kms from the Pacific Ocean and 45kms from the Andes Mountains. The Almahue Valley is known as the birthplace of the Carmenere grape in Chile.

The 33 hectare estate, originally purchased by current owner/winemaker Gabriel Edwards’ great grandfather in 1892, was planted with vines in 1945 by his grandmother, Luz. These are some of the oldest Carmenere vineyards in Chile, and most likely in the entire world. The grapes were sold for many years to Casa Lapostolle, one of Chile’s most famous producers, until Gabriel returned from his wine training in Burgundy and Champagne ten years ago to take over the running of the business. The vineyards are surrounded by natural “walls”, the Almahue hills, which is why the winery was named “Clos” de Luz.

Made from very low-yielding Carmenère vines planted in 1945.

This medium to full bodied red has rich mulberry and plum fruit flavours with notes of herbs and spices. It is fresh in acidity but has good density of juicy, seductive fruit supported by fine, firm tannins. This is a seriously interesting example of the Carmenère grape with good ageing ability. 13.9% alcohol.

Drink with marinated duck breast or pasta with a mushroom or truffle sauce

Awarded 93pts by Wine Advocate. 2,500 cases were produced. Drink now – 2029