2018 Manso de Velasco Viñas Viejas Cabernet Sauvignon

Located between Lontué and Molina, the Manso de Velasco Vineyard is about 120 years old, probably the oldest cabernet sauvignon in Chile, or at the very least, among the oldest in the country. The wine was first released in 1985 and has maintained a succulent and very ripe style ever since. This year seems to be the vintage of change, of a different path. With this vintage, winemaker Eduardo Jordán has begun to give it a bit more freshness and lightness, decreasing the number of new barrels from 40% to 11%, shifting just under half of the 18-month aging time to foudres and choosing lots that were more vertical, with more pronounced acidity, and lighter. And that comes through in the final result, in a Manso that’s more drinkable without losing the style of sweet spices and ripe red fruits it has always had. Manso fans are will not feel betrayed.

In one of the best vintages in Chile in recent years, this beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon is a best buy among Chilean icons. Fresh cherry and blueberry fruits. Very medicinal, white pepper, anise. A delicious and noble earthy touch. Very balanced. Fine tannins accompanied by beautiful acidity. Finish with hints of tobacco. This vintage was aged for 18 months, with 11% in new barrels, 49% in second-use barrels and 40% in foudres. (translated)