2018 Haras de Pirque Gran Reserva Cabernet Franc- Galantas

In modern times, Chile has been known in the U.S. primarily for cheap-and-cheerful cabernet sauvignon and merlot, but there are of course other varieties grown there, as well as serious wines made from them. In fact, Chile is the largest grower of cabernet franc in South America, and the fifth largest in the world. (In case you’re curious, the top four are France, Italy, the U.S., and Hungary.) Haras de Pirque is famed Tuscan producer Marchese Piero Antinori’s project in the Maipo Valley. The estate is located 40 kilometers south of Santiago, between the foothills of the Andes Mountains and the Maipo River. 'Galantas' is 85% cabernet franc with 15% carménère from certified organic vineyards in the foothills of the Andes. Spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel and oak was followed by 14 months of aging in barriques.

This is a darker-fruited cabernet franc, with some earthiness, oak, and aged flavors, and yet still quite fresh and youthful. It’s stylish, silky in texture, and serious. Pour it into a Bordeaux or other large glass and drink it with hearty meat dishes, such as steak with green pepper sauce or herb-crusted lamb, or with roasted fall vegetables.