Introduction
The 2020 TerraNoble Carmenere Gran Reserva is a robust and deeply flavorful expression of Chile's signature red grape, Carmenere. Sourced from the prestigious Colchagua Valley, this wine showcases TerraNoble’s dedication to producing high-quality, expressive wines with a focus on balance and varietal character. The Gran Reserva offers rich, ripe fruit and a touch of earthiness, capturing the essence of Chilean Carmenere.
Terrior
Colchagua Valley is one of Chile's most renowned wine regions, known for its Mediterranean climate, marked by warm days and cool nights, which allows grapes to ripen fully while retaining acidity. The region’s alluvial soils with clay and gravel deposits provide excellent drainage and contribute to the concentration and complexity of the wines. This terroir is ideal for Carmenere, enhancing its naturally rich fruit flavors and spicy, herbal notes.
Appearance
Deep, intense ruby with violet highlights, indicating youth and vibrancy. The wine shows good density in the glass, with noticeable legs that hint at its concentration and moderate alcohol level.
Nose
The nose is inviting and complex, with aromas of ripe blackberries, plum, and dark cherry, layered with subtle green pepper, tobacco leaf, and black pepper. Underlying notes of cocoa, leather, and a touch of smoke contribute to its earthy character and add depth.
Palate
On the palate, this Carmenere is full-bodied with a smooth, plush texture. The core flavors are dominated by dark fruit—blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum—accompanied by savory elements like black olive and a characteristic hint of green bell pepper. The wine’s tannins are soft yet well-structured, balancing the rich fruit and providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Moderate acidity adds freshness, while hints of dark chocolate and spice linger on the mid-palate.
Finish
The finish is long and layered, with persistent notes of dark fruit, spice, and a slight herbal edge that fades gradually. A touch of mineral earthiness and balanced tannins create a polished, lingering impression.
Overall Impression
The 2020 TerraNoble Carmenere Gran Reserva is a classic and well-crafted Carmenere, offering a compelling blend of ripe fruit, spice, and earthiness. Its polished tannins and balanced acidity make it approachable now, though it has the structure to age gracefully for a few more years. This wine is an excellent representative of Chilean Carmenere, capturing both the varietal’s unique character and the distinct terroir of Colchagua Valley.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: TerraNoble
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: Chile
Region: Colchagua Valley
Grape Varietals: Carmenere
Vintage: 2020
Wine Style: Red, Full-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel, aged in French oak barrels for 12 months
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork