Region
The Colchagua Valley is a three hour drive south of Santiago and home to many of Chile`s finest wineries. Located in Colchagua are the fine sub-regions of Apalta and Rapel. The region is influenced by the coastal maritime breezes and micro climate affected by Lake Rapel. The Andes mountains which dominate the country tower over the valley in the distance and are the water source used to irrigate the vines. The region is reknowned for many of the finest Merlots, Cabernets and Carmenère.
Producer
The Vina La Playa estate occupies some of Colchagua Valley`s most desirable acreage on the western shores of the Tinguiririca river. Comprising 600 acres and a $10 million state of the art winery, this excellent producer is owned by the Sutil family who make superb modern fruit-driven wines from grapes sourced entirely from the estate. Exciting new vineyard development in the coastal Limari Valley, north of Santiago, is starting to produce some outstanding cool climate varietals.
Tasting (Long)
This wine shows a pronounced quality and character, revealing a variety that is powerful, yet tamed by ripe and round tannins.The Axel Cabernet Sauvignon is bright ruby red. On the nose, it hints of leather, cherries, cassis, raisins, cedar, mint and tobacco. A high concentration of ripe tannins gives a very well structured and flavorful mouth-feel, while notes of chocolate, vanilla, coffee and ripe red fruits lead to a lingering and pleasant finish.
Tasting (Short)
On the nose, it hints of leather, cherries, cassis, raisins, cedar, mint and tobacco. Well structured and flavorful mouth-feel, with notes of chocolate, vanilla, coffee and ripe red fruits, which lead to a lingering and pleasant finish.
Food
Excellent with all types of red meat with rich sauces, specially shank, sirloin, lamb chops, and Italian food.
Awards
Silver medal at the Wines of Chile Annual Awards 2009.