Terrunyo Carmenere is a vivid expression of Chile's premium winemaking, crafted from 100% Carmenere grapes grown in the renowned Peumo Vineyard of the Cachapoal Valley. Displaying a deep, dark purple hue, this wine captivates with aromas of wild berries, blueberries, cedar, and violets. On the palate, it is fresh and fruit-forward, boasting balanced acidity, soft tannins, and a silky texture that culminates in a long, persistent finish. Perfect for pairing with boldly seasoned dishes, grilled meats, or rich, savory recipes like risotto and quiche, this Carmenere showcases exceptional purity and character. With its elegant complexity and terroir-driven authenticity, Terrunyo Carmenere is a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and memorable Chilean red.
Process & Profile
Terrunyo Carmenere hails from the renowned Peumo Vineyard in Chile's Cachapoal Valley, a region celebrated for its perfect terroir for Carmenere. This exceptional wine is crafted from 100% Carmenere grapes, harvested by hand for precision and quality. The wine undergoes meticulous vinification and is aged for 9 months in French oak barrels, achieving its complex character. The vineyard's clay-rich alluvial soil and the influence of the nearby Rapel River create ideal conditions for ripening, resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and flavor.
Tasting Notes
Terrunyo Carmenere pours into the glass with a deep, dark violet-red hue, embodying the intensity of the varietal. On the nose, it offers a luxurious bouquet of dark fruits such as blackberry, plum, and blueberries, complemented by hints of cedar, violet, and green pepper. The palate is equally captivating, featuring a full-bodied yet velvety texture with layers of ripe black fruit, chocolate, tobacco, and a subtle herbal complexity. It finishes with silky tannins, a bright acidity, and a long, lingering persistence.
What Makes It Special
Terrunyo Carmenere stands out as a testament to the pure expression of Carmenere, showcasing the unique features of its terroir. Produced by Concha y Toro, one of Chile's most acclaimed wineries, this wine epitomizes the perfect harmony of climate, soil, and expert craftsmanship. The Peumo Vineyard's microclimate, with significant day-to-night temperature variation, enhances the wine's vivid acidity and refined structure. Its limited production and meticulous grape selection ensure an unparalleled quality that consistently earns high praise from critics.
How to Enjoy
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Its vibrant acidity and sweet tannins make it an ideal companion for richly flavored foods, such as grilled meats with herbaceous or spicy marinades, hearty grain-based dishes like risotto, and cheesy delights like pizza or quiche. The wine's bold flavors also complement savory pastries or spicy stews. For a perfect pairing, enjoy Terrunyo Carmenere with a juicy ribeye steak or lamb chops, and serve slightly below room temperature (around 60–65°F). Its aging potential allows it to develop beautifully over the years, making it equally enjoyable now or over the next decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Terrunyo Carmenere made from?
Terrunyo Carmenere is made from 100% Carmenere grapes grown in Peumo, a sub-region of the Cachapoal Valley in Chile.
What does Terrunyo Carmenere taste like?
It offers a fresh, fruity, and delicate palate with rich acidity and sweet tannins. You can expect flavors of blueberries, blackberries, and subtle hints of cedar and violet, leading to a long and persistent finish.
What is the best food to pair with Terrunyo Carmenere?
This wine pairs excellently with flavorful dishes that include spices, fresh herbs, or a touch of spice. It complements grilled meats with seasoned or sweet-and-sour marinades and works beautifully with hearty dishes like risottos, pizzas, quiches, or cannelloni, with or without cheese.
What is the appearance and aromatic profile of Terrunyo Carmenere?
The wine has a deep, dark purple color. It features aromas of ripe blueberries, wild berries, and hints of cedar, violet, and dry leaves, which exhibit the characteristic notes of a true Carmenere.
At what temperature should I serve Terrunyo Carmenere?
It is best served at a temperature of 16°C–18°C (60°F–64°F) to fully enjoy its rich flavors and aromas.
Why is Carménère associated with Chile?
Although Carménère originated in Bordeaux, France, it thrives in the warm climate of Chile, where it has become a signature varietal. Chilean soils, particularly in regions like Peumo, provide ideal conditions for producing high-quality Carménère wines.
Is Terrunyo Carmenere suitable for aging?
Yes, Terrunyo Carmenere has the potential for aging, thanks to its balance of acidity and tannins. Proper storage can allow the wine to develop more complex flavors over time.
How does Terrunyo Carmenere differ from other red wines like Merlot or Malbec?
Terrunyo Carmenere is known for its distinct green bell pepper notes, softer tannins, and herbal characteristics, unlike Merlot's velvety smoothness or Malbec's richer oak influence. Its vibrant acidity and purity of fruit make it a unique and versatile choice.
What makes Peumo, where the grapes are grown, special for Carménère?
Peumo is one of the oldest wine-producing areas in Chile and is renowned for its ideal conditions for Carménère. The region's warm climate and deep alluvial clay-silt soils contribute to the wine's full-bodied style and characteristic sweet red berry notes.
Is Terrunyo Carmenere a dry wine?
Yes, Terrunyo Carmenere is a dry wine with a well-structured balance of fruit and acidity.