Almaviva 1999–2021: A Marriage Story
An intricate Franco-Chilean collaboration, Almaviva epitomizes the fusion of fine winemaking traditions from Bordeaux and Chile. This partnership began officially in 1997, rooted in the spirit of collaboration and excellence that echoed the earlier formation of Opus One between Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild.
Initially, the venture was met with skepticism, as high-profile joint ventures often faced cultural and interpersonal clashes that hampered their success. Almaviva, a collaboration between Bordeaux’s Rothschild and Chile’s Concha y Toro, was among the more successful ones. Established in the hype of the late 20th century, it was touted as an ambitious project that sought to integrate the venerable reputation of French wine with the promising landscape of Chile.
In the early years, Almaviva faced criticism regarding its pricing and the perceived arrogance of its initial releases. Critics would describe the wines as "laughably over-priced," casting doubt on the viability of fine wine from Chile. However, as the years rolled on, perceptions started to shift. By the early 2020s, Almaviva achieved recognition not only as one of Chile’s finest Cabernet-based wines but also as a trendsetter that helped position Chilean fine wines on the global stage.
Building Success
Michel Friou, the winemaker at Almaviva since 2007, believes that the keys to its success lie in proper vineyard management and adapting winemaking practices over the years. The project emphasizes quality through the vineyard design, which spans 60 hectares in Puente Alto — strategically chosen for its ideal growing conditions, such as high altitude and proximity to the Andes.
Chilean viticulture has seen shifts and evolution in planting techniques. Almaviva has experimented with ungrafted vines in response to climatic challenges and droughts, alongside maintaining some rootstock for contingencies. Friou explains the climactic benefits of the Maipo region, noting that despite warmer winters, the growing season remains cool enough to preserve acidity and freshness in the wines.
The signature of Almaviva comes from its Franco-Chilean identity expressed through its blends. Predominantly comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, these wines age gracefully, showcasing depth and elegance.
A Tasting Journey Through the Vintages
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1999 Almaviva – A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère, notable for its delightful complexity and aging potential. (94 points)
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2003 Almaviva – Marked by warmer conditions; its signature richness reflects the opulent style of the time. (89 points)
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2007 Almaviva – A balance of intense fruitiness and a refreshing finish, illustrating Friou’s meticulous approach to managing vintage variances. (92 points)
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2008 Almaviva – Strikingly powerful yet layered, representative of early 2000s Chilean wines. (90 points)
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2010 Almaviva – Showcasing plush texture and enjoyable drinkability, this vintage highlights the evolving palates of wine enthusiasts. (94 points)
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2013 Almaviva – Exhibiting buoyancy with floral notes, it embodies the freshness demanded in modern winemaking. (92 points)
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2016 Almaviva – Representing a cooler year, the wine shifts towards Bordeaux-like qualities, signaling another evolution in style. (92 points)
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2018 Almaviva – Celebrated for its profound dark fruit quality, it affirms the winery’s top-tier status. (94 points)
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2021 Almaviva – A standout vintage capturing a balance of precision and freshness, indicative of the sustained evolution of Almaviva wines over time. (95 points)
Almaviva’s story illustrates not only the successful blending of cultures but also an earnest adaptation and perseverance that allowed it to withstand initial criticism and mature into a symbol of Chilean fine wine industry success. The respect earned through its continued quality and innovative practices serves as a beacon for future winemaking aspirations in the region.
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