CLOS QUEBRADA DE MACUL, DOMUS AUREA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
MAIPO VALLEY, CHILE 2016
Chile grows more Cabernet Sauvignon than Napa Valley or Bordeaux, but it’s been within the past decade or two that wine collectors have really begun to take notice—surely thanks to legacy producers like Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Viña Concha y Toro putting down roots in the region (Almaviva) and wineries like Clos Quebrada de Macul and Don Melchor bringing in near-perfect and perfect scores from top publications. Cue today’s offer: the 97-point 2016 Quebrada de Macul ‘Domus Aurea’ Cabernet Sauvignon. Qubrada de Macul has been making waves recently after a string of stunning vintages from winemaker Jean-Pascal Lacaze, and if you are a fan of Cabernet Sauvignon, today’s 2016 Domus Aurea is worth your attention: it is “the most elegant Domus to date, with a level of precision that is not easy to achieve” (Wine Advocate). While wines of this caliber often boast price tags in the triple digits, Concierge-only pricing on case orders brings each bottle as low as $55!
While Chile initially developed a reputation for value-driven reds, that has been changing in a big way as more producers focus on site specificity and modern winemaking techniques—though when you consider wines like Domus Aurea, I would argue the relative value absolutely still exists. Planted in 1970, Quebrada de Macul’s vineyard is located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains and is considered to be among the finest vineyards in Chile’s Maipo Valley. In the past the vineyard’s fruit was sold to top wineries from across the country, and quickly became some of the most expensive fruit in market. Eventually, proprietors Ricardo and Isabel Peña were motivated to found their own winery; in 1996, the inaugural vintage of Domus Aurea was released.
Today, their 45-acre single vineyard, separated into five blocks, is the sole source of the flagship Domus Aurea. The 2016 Domus Aurea is classically styled and composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon with 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Winemaker Jean-Pascal Lacaze reported that Cabernet Franc was of exceptional quality, better than ever in 2016, and this has undoubtedly contributed to the 2016’s elegance and finesse. A portion of the wine underwent fermentation in barrel and a portion in stainless steel; it then aged in 53% new French oak barrels for 16-18 months. Advocate reports that “2016 could be the finest vintage to date” and suggests a drinking window throughout the next 10-15 years. Don’t miss your opportunity to collect this remarkable vintage at an unbelievable price. Concierge pricing will be available for one week only!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Spring 2021. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in NY, TN, or WI. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Tuesday, December 8, 2020.
