Viña Carmen was founded in 1850, which is prominently reflected in this reserva range, Premier 1850. Merlot has long been a problematic grape for Chilean viticulture. There was once confusion with Carmenère, who was mistaken for Merlot, but turned out not to be. The Merlot itself was often planted in vineyards that were too warm. For this reason, Carmen has opted for the somewhat cooler Colchagua Valley, and within this valley for the best, again relatively cool terroirs. The grapes come from four sub-appellations: Lolol, Pumanque, Marchigue and Apalta. Here the Merlot can mature perfectly, without the roughness and hardness that is characteristic of the planting of this grape in vineyards that are too warm. By using grapes from different terroirs, the wine gets more complexity and depth. A soak on the skins for a week at about 4oC provides a powerful and intense fruit character. Fermentation at a temperature of no more than 25oC keeps the fruit in the wine perfectly preserved. 80% of the wine is aged for 9 months in French and American oak barrels. The rest stays on stainless steel, for the fresh fruit. By adding some Malbec, the wine has extra depth and backbone, with a pleasant pepper. A special Merlot, red in class.

The Merlot Reserva Premier 1850 'Carmen' is a Merlot with a wonderful intensity in its fruit, with blackcurrants, blackberries, a delicious hint of vanilla, pure in taste, soft and creamy, with a subtle hint of cinnamon and coffee. Great with pasta dishes, but also with game, guinea fowl, slightly matured cheeses, stews.

Awards:
2016 harvest year - 4.0* (press wine)