Viña Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard 2021

“From its inaugural vintage in 1987, Viña Don Melchor aspired to demonstrate that Chilean terroir can produce world-class wines. Maintaining that credo, several years ago it became a stand-alone brand, separate from its parent company, Concha y Toro. The move signaled a shift to distinguish the flagship from Concha y Toro’s primarily large-volume and lower-priced labels. Now in its 35th vintage, the exemplary Viña Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard has undoubtedly succeeded in its endeavor as a reference for excellence, both in Chile and worldwide…Chilean wine has been setting new standards in recent years; Don Melchor’s meticulous approach across three-plus decades has cemented its legacy as a benchmark for the country and made the Viña Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard one of Chile’s most sought-after Cabs. It now is honored as Wine Spectator’s 2024 Wine of the Year.” -Wine Spectator

Vina Don Melchor sent shockwaves through all of Chile when they declared that they were breaking off as the flagship wine from Concha y Toro. Now, 35 years later, there are no doubters left as they have established themselves as one of the very best producers in all of South America.

But could anybody see the 2021 vintage coming? If they said yes, I think they’re lying.

Wine Spectator awarded this wine their Wine of the Year, a previously unthinkable feat for a Chilean winery, and a large statement about the quality of this winery, this region and their future as an international player.