#Cabernet Sauvignon #Chile #Casa Real #Viña Santa Rita #Alto Jahuel

Casa Real's New 2022 Vintage Launches at La Place de Bordeaux

On September 11, a landmark event unfolded at La Place de Bordeaux, where Casa Real, the flagship wine by Viña Santa Rita, introduced its new 2022 vintage. This occasion is not just a simple wine launch; it signifies the 30th anniversary of a remarkable journey, as Casa Real celebrates three decades of being a benchmark in the world of premium Cabernet Sauvignon.

A Legacy of Excellence

Since its first vintage in 1989, Casa Real has made a name for itself as a staple among South America's finest wines. It continues to hold the distinction of being the only Chilean icon wine exclusively made from Cabernet Sauvignon. This commitment to quality stems from its distinct 20-hectare vineyard in the Alto Jahuel region, where ungrafted vines flourish, producing berries that showcase the rich terroir of Chile.

Baltazar Sánchez, the Chairman of Viña Santa Rita, reflected on the significance of these 30 vintages, stating, “After 30 vintages, we can look back on a journey that has remained faithful to the place and the style that have defined this wine over the years.” This dedication hints at a deep connection to both tradition and progress, positioning Casa Real not only as a wine but as a cultural icon.

Experience the 2022 Vintage

The 2022 vintage emerges from a notably cool season, which has lent itself to optimal fruit maturation. Winemaker Sebastián Labbé emphasized this year’s unique characteristics, stating, “This fresh and vibrant vintage displays a deep ruby color and pure aromas of blackcurrant, ripe cherries, and tobacco, lifted by delicate spicy notes.” The tasting notes reveal a complex yet structured palate filled with refined tannins, encapsulating the true essence of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Critically, Casa Real 2022 has already garnered significant accolades, receiving a remarkable 97 points from Tim Atkin and Vinous, and 96 points from James Suckling, who praised its layered complexity as a true testament to Chile’s capacity for producing nuanced wines. It is a badge of honor for a wine that aspires to reflect the grandeur of Left Bank Bordeaux.

The Future of Casa Real

Looking forward, Casa Real aims to expand its exploration of the Alto Jahuel terroir, emphasizing its unique identities in every bottle. Each vintage is seen as a new opportunity to interpret this land with precision while remaining anchored to its roots. The commitment to excellence and the pursuit of perfection remain at the forefront of Viña Santa Rita's mission.

As Casa Real continues to evolve, it remains deeply rooted in its heritage while simultaneously embracing innovation and refinement. This enduring legacy not only signals the evolution of one of Chile's most distinguished wines but also reinforces Chile's position on the global wine map.

Conclusion

Casa Real’s 2022 vintage is more than just a wine release; it's a celebration of craftsmanship, heritage, and the unyielding dedication of a winery that has thrived for over a century. As it graces La Place de Bordeaux for the fifth consecutive year, the world is invited to experience its elegance and complexity, marking a splendid new chapter in the history of fine wine. Viña Santa Rita continues to craft wines that not only embody the spirit of their origin but also aspire to be benchmarks of excellence across the globe.