Origin: Colchagua, Chili
Grape: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Year: 2014
Alcohol: 14%
Price point: $7.99
Year Reviewed: 2018
Rated 88. Points.
Los Vacos Cab is not new for me, as I sampled this wine 3 years ago as the price captured my attention. I was reminded about it again in an article regarding highly rated cabernets under $10.00. Thought I should try the 2014 and review. This is an appealing clear deep ruby colored Cab. Its nose is clean but with a lighter intensity than anticipated. Aromas of vegetal (cabbage) appear upon uncorking. Herbal tones and eucalyptus, medicinal, yeast and mushroom smell hit my senses. Aromas were not very pronounced. But upon encountering additional air time, the aromas of plum and cherry evoked the table.
On the palate, a dry high acidity wine, with medium tannins, a bit lighter body than expected, with a long finish. Good quality for the price…….but wait……
Wait is what I did, as I remembered this wine more interesting than it was upon first sampling and reviewing here. I decanted and let my friend (air) bring out some beauty in this poor closed up spirit. This wine woke up a bunch of bolder flavors and rounded out better after 1 ½ hours, so keep that in mind for this $7.99 wine…..to decant and your guests will think you are serving a $25 cab to them.
Incidentally the 2015 is supposed to be even better. I will look for that to blog on also.
Les Domaines Barons de Rothschild has roots in the Bordeaux region of France since 1868. The Estate has a great reputation for over 5 generations. First references to their wines date back to 1234 Check out www.lafite.com and the Domaine of Vi~na Los Vascos and discover Los Vacos also has many other cabernets, chardonnays and even a new Rose from cabernet grapes. South China Morning Post, March 29, 2016, talks about the growth of the Rothschild wines and how they have land in Chili, Argentina and Languedoc, and featured in the article a new purchase of land in Shandong, China to produce vintages for the local demand.