Description
Using exclusively estate-grown grapes from this arid region in Chile’s Elqui Valley, Falernia is Chile’s most northernly winery, and a substantial distance from the country’s main wine-growing regions. Founded by Italian immigrants fleeing Italy’s drastically failing economy in the 1950’s, the Olivier family saw the potential for vine growing in this inhospitable region. Decades later, they have succeeded in transforming a tract of desert into lush green vineyards and making world class wines.
Interestingly, this Gran Reserva has been made in the age-old appassimento method, in which grapes have been left to dry out prior to being pressed or undergoing fermentation. The result is a highly concentrated, rich wine with great structure. In addition, this wine benefits from 30% of the juice having been aged in a mix of French and American oak barrels.
Dark fruits, blueberry, cherry and raisins on the nose, with medium, nicely balanced tannins on the palate. Tons of ripe fruit and an enviable length.