Primus Cabernet Blend (2009)

About this wine

The 2009 Primus Cabernet Blend from Veramonte is a full-bodied red wine that showcases the rich flavors of dark crushed cherries and cassis, complemented by subtle notes of graphite. On the palate, it presents a harmonious balance of ripe fruit and fine tannins, leading to a compact finish with hints of cured olive, grilled herb, and spice. This blend combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenère, and Merlot, each contributing to the wine's complexity and depth. Notably, the inclusion of Carmenère, a grape once prevalent in Bordeaux and now thriving in Chile, adds a unique dimension to the wine. The 2009 vintage was recognized by Wine Spectator, earning a 90-point rating and a spot in their Top 100 Wines of 2012.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, originally from Bordeaux, was introduced to Chile in the mid-19th century and has become the country's most widely planted grape, thriving in regions like the Colchagua Valley. Syrah, though not as prevalent, has gained popularity in Chile, especially in warmer areas, producing bold and juicy wines. Carmenère, once thought extinct after the phylloxera outbreak in France, was rediscovered in Chile in 1994, having been mistaken for Merlot for over a century; it now stands as Chile's signature grape, known for its deep color and spicy notes. Merlot, also from Bordeaux, was introduced alongside other French varieties and has adapted well to Chile's climate, contributing to the country's reputation for producing smooth, fruit-forward wines.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 2009 Primus Cabernet Blend from Veramonte is a Bordeaux-style blend, combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenère, and Merlot, showcasing the rich diversity of Chilean viticulture.
• 🌄 Veramonte's vineyards are located in the Colchagua Valley, a region renowned for its Mediterranean climate and diverse soils, contributing to the wine's unique character.
• 🏆 The 2009 vintage of Primus received a 90-point rating from Wine Spectator and was ranked 95th in their Top 100 Wines of 2012, highlighting its exceptional quality.
• 🌱 Veramonte practices organic and biodynamic farming, emphasizing sustainability and allowing the grapes to express their true terroir.
• 🍇 The inclusion of Carmenère, a grape once thought extinct, adds a distinctive spicy and rich texture to the blend, reflecting Chile's unique wine heritage.

Palate profile

Producer

Veramonte was established in the late 1990s by Agustín Huneeus, a visionary who pioneered winemaking in Chile's Casablanca Valley, an area previously unrecognized for viticulture. The winery is dedicated to organic farming practices, emphasizing soil health and biodiversity to produce expressive wines. In 2016, Veramonte became part of González Byass, a family-owned company founded in 1835, known for its commitment to quality and tradition. The vineyards are surrounded by 2,500 hectares of native forest, benefiting from the Pacific Ocean's cool breezes and morning fog, creating ideal conditions for cultivating varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Syrah.