{"title":"Thursday 9\/24 Don Melchor Masterclass: 100pt Rank #1 Vertical","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe complete Don Melchor vertical poured at our private Thursday 9\/24 masterclass with the winery's Carly Black: four vintages of Chile's first icon Cabernet — the 100-point 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2022 — plus the Amelia Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"concha-y-toro-don-melchor-cabernet-sauvignon-2018-maipo-chile-js-100","title":"Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 (Maipo, Chile) - [JS 100] [VM 96] [W\u0026S 96] [WS 95] [WA 95] [WE 94]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eConcha y Toro’s history begins in 1883 with our founder’s -Melchor Concha y Toro- dream to create the best wines. A tradition persevered over time, inspiring us to work with passion and excellence in our brands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConcha y Toro is today the most admired wine brand in the world. Our wines deliver rewarding and unique experiences to our consumers around the world. We are present in over 130 countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Vineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePuente Alto is a privileged terroir, determined by the singular combination of soil, climate conditions, the vineyard, and a delicate human touch to craft vintages that are a faithful expression of this special place. Located at the foot of the Andes, 650 metres above sea level, the Don Melchor winery is set on the north bank of the Maipo River and has long been a keystone in the history of Chilean wine. Ever since French pre-phylloxera vines were imported in the mid-19th Century, this part of the Maipo Valley has been growing in prestige and quality, building on a past rich in tradition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard today consists of 127 hectares, carefully divided into seven parcels, of which roughly 90 per cent hold Cabernet Sauvignon vines, with 7.1 per cent Cabernet Franc, 1.9 per cent Merlot and the final one 1 per cent growing Petit Verdot grapes. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines average more than 30 years of age and correspond to a selection originally brought over from Bordeaux at the end of the 19th Century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2018 is one of the greatest vintages in the history of Don Melchor. A highly expressive wine, with great personality and complexity. the wine shows lots of expression and complexity of small red fruits, as well as floral notes displayed as a whole. On the palate, the wine is full of flavor and dominated by elegance and balance, as well as a great texture of the tannins, with a long, refined finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRed meats, especially lamb, and wild game: baked, stewed, or prepared with red wine sauces, mushrooms, rosemary and tomatoes. Different terrines and pâtés, like turkey with truffles. Cow and goat cheeses; dry and mature cheeses, or creamy cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTechnical Data\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarietal Composition:\u003c\/strong\u003e 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e Don Melchor Vineyard, D.O. Puente Alto, Alto Maipo Valley.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Description:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Don Melchor Vineyard is located along the north bank of the Maipo River, at an altitude of 650 m.a.s.l. It is composed of 127 hectares: 90% dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon; 7.1% to Cabernet Franc, 1.9% to Merlot, and 1% to Petit Verdot. To date, the vineyard's vines are over 30 years old on average.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest:\u003c\/strong\u003e By hand. Between March 20 and May 11, 2018. The vineyard yielded 5.0 tons\/ha.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVinification:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe alcoholic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks for 10 days at 25 to 26°C and is pumped over 4 to 6 times a day. Once the fermentation is complete, the tank is hermetically sealed for an 8-day maceration at 23 to 25°C, for a greater extraction and smoother tannins. At the end of the maceration period, each tank is devatted, tasted and selected by the Don Melchor vineyard and winemaking team. Then, all of the wines are tasted and selected for the final blend, which is later transferred to the barrels. aging 15 months in French oak barrels, (72% new, 28% second-use)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAging Potential:\u003c\/strong\u003e Over 35 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points \u0026amp; #1 of Best Wines of Chile 2020 - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This is amazing. The vibrancy and energy in this wine is stunning. The complexity of aromas are breathtaking with flowers, blackcurrants, raspberries and peaches. Full-bodied, yet ever so refined and polished with impeccable texture and beauty. The length is marvelous. This is a testimony to balance, harmony and transparency in a great red. Drink after 2023.\" (Jan 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Melchor is a combination of a proven style – the blend also includes 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot – and a particularly good harvest in the Puente Alto region in Maipo. Made by Enrique Tirado and aged for 15 months in French barrels, it is garnet red in the glass, with a very complex expression that unfolds in layers, beginning with black currant and sour cherry notes, followed by mint, cedar and pepper and a faint whiff of red pepper. Juicy in the mouth with fine-grained tannins and a concentration that centers the wine, channeling and stretching out the fruity backdrop, this is an unusually harmonious and delicious Bordeaux blend.\" - Joaquin Hidalgo (May 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine \u0026amp; Spirits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Long produced from its own 314-acre vineyard, a prime site on the third alluvial terrace above the north bank of the Maipo River, Don Melchor is now established in its own estate winery. Enrique Tirado, who started making Don Melchor in 1997, considers the 2018 season one of the most vine-friendly he has worked, with plenty of rain in winter, optimal weather during flowering, no heat spikes in summer and cool nights through harvest. The fruit of the vines shows the freshness of the season, as well as the ripeness, allowing Tirado and consultant Eric Boissenot to include both early ripening merlot and late-ripening petit verdot in this 2018 (in most years, they limit the blend to cabernets sauvignon and franc). The purity of that fruit is completely Andean—neither green nor dimpled, but precisely tuned in both the flavor and texture of its tannins. The wine has a quiet, gracious power, reflecting its Chilean character (there’s nothing either bold or austere about it; this is a wine of a place, without cabernet preconceptions). Its black currant and tart red cherry flavors have the crunch of walking through Andean snow, even as the sunniness of the fruit is cool, not at all cold, leaving a gracious impression. Great Andean cabernet has the capacity to age and develop for decades. If you’ve never invested in Chilean wine, this is the place to start.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Powerful and well-structured, with vibrant acidity backing a lively blend of dark fruit and fresh-crushed cooking spice flavors. Cedary and savory notes in the midpalate, with a long finish filled with underbrush accents. Drink now through 2027. 14,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.\" - KM (May 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"I tasted two vintages of the top Cabernet Sauvignon, and even if the two years were quite different, the wines showed very good regularity. My preference was for the 2018 Don Melchor, from a cooler and rainier vintage that produced a very complete and balanced wine with the aid of 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. It has power and finesse, integrated 14% alcohol and a classical profile with the ingredients to develop nicely in bottle. It's tasty and has polished tannins. 156,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in December 2019 and early January 2020.\" – Luis Gutierrez (Aug 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points \u0026amp; Editor's Choice - Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Smooth aromas of leather, cassis and plum come with a side note of savory grilled beef. This is a deeply built Cabernet from an excellent vintage. Blackberry and cassis flavors are supported by a dash of peppery spice, while this is lightly toasted on a long finish. Drink from 2022–2028.\" – Michael Schachner (Apr 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"YOUNGS MARKET","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":40664100470943,"sku":"","price":264.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/DonMelchor2018.png?v=1627416255"},{"product_id":"concha-y-toro-don-melchor-cabernet-sauvignon-puente-alto-vineyard-2022-maipo-valley-chile-ws-95","title":"Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto Vineyard 2022 (Maipo Valley, Chile) - [JS 99] [VM 97] [TA 97] [JD 97] [WS 95] [WE 95] [WA 94+]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eConcha y Toro’s history begins in 1883 with their founder’s -Melchor Concha y Toro- dream to create the best wines. First produced over 30 years ago, their flagship wine was named in honor of the founded and now Don Melchor has reached a solid position that enables it to face new challenges, highlighting its maturity and ability to express its own identity through Viña Don Melchor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis identity is built upon a base of three fundamental pillars—its impeccable heritage and history, the peerless conditions of its terroir, and the deep understanding and expertise in the making of the Don Melchor wine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Vineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePuente Alto is a privileged terroir, determined by the singular combination of soil, climate conditions, the vineyard, and a delicate human touch to craft vintages that are a faithful expression of this special place. Located at the foot of the Andes, 650 metres above sea level, the Don Melchor winery is set on the north bank of the Maipo River and has long been a keystone in the history of Chilean wine. Ever since French pre-phylloxera vines were imported in the mid-19th Century, this part of the Maipo Valley has been growing in prestige and quality, building on a past rich in tradition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard today consists of 127 hectares, carefully divided into seven parcels, of which roughly 90 per cent hold Cabernet Sauvignon vines, with 7.1 per cent Cabernet Franc, 1.9 per cent Merlot and the final one 1 per cent growing Petit Verdot grapes. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines average more than 30 years of age and correspond to a selection originally brought over from Bordeaux at the end of the 19th Century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDeep violet in color, intense, and with a great aromatic complexity of red fruits together with floral notes of violets and roses. On the palate, it is a flavorful wine with a soft spell and a superb freshness, along with the elegance and power so characteristic of Puente Alto. It is a wine with a velvety texture, lush body, and a very long and persistent finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTechnical Data\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCabernet Sauvignon 93%, Cabernet Franc 4%, Merlot 3%\u003cbr\u003eABV 14.8%\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVinification:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eBunches were hand-harvested in 10-kilogram bins. Once in the winery, a selection of clusters and grapes is made before beginning the vinification process. Alcoholic fermentation was carried out in stainless steel tanks and lasted nine days at 25 to 26°C (77 to 79°F). During the first half of fermentation, three pump-overs were carried out daily, moving one volume of juice per day and then decreasing it to half or a third towards the end of alcoholic fermentation. Once the fermentation process was complete, the tank was hermetically sealed for a maceration of approximately one week (shorter than usual) at temperatures between 23 and 25°C, for a softer extraction of tannins. At the end of the maceration period, the wine is racked, tasted and selected by Don Melchor's winemaking team and sent to French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. Later in July, wines are tasted and chosen to make the final blend, which is then transferred back to barrels to finish aging before bottling.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAging Potential:\u003c\/strong\u003e Over 35 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Blackcurrants, cassis and graphite on the nose. Pure and fragrant. Full-bodied with superb density and tannins that are so polished. The texture is like touching a silk ball. Its finish is very long and compact with slightly chewy tannins, but it will come together beautifully with time in the bottle. Try after 2028.\" (Feb 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Melchor originates from a vineyard planted in the heart of the Puente Alto region in 1979. This is renowned Cabernet Sauvignon terroir, characterized by the perfect balance of temperatures and poor gravel soils. The 2022 was aged in French oak barrels, with 78% of them being new. Garnet-hued with a purplish sheen, it offers complex aromas of currant, blackberry, ash, mint and a subtle floral tone that can be attributed to the cold vintage. Dry, rich and moderately juicy, the precisely calibrated tannins of Maipo Valley and the clear fruit impart the palate with intensity and agility. This is a more nuanced and energetic edition of Don Melchor, closing with a fairly compact finish.\" - Joaquin Hidalgo (Jul 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Tim Atkin:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"'Fresh yet rich and concentrated' is how Enrique Tirado accurately describes the 2022 Don Melchor, the latest in an impressive run of releases of this Puente Alto icon. Youthful, focused and well structured, it's a seamless cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% each of Merlot and Petit Verdot, showing delightful purity and elegance, top notes of cedarwood and graphite, layered tannins and a core of cassis, vanilla spice and black cherry.\" (Jun 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Richly textured and layered in tangy red fruit, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is from a cooler year than the 2023, made in a similar way, blending from some 151 parcels planted at different densities and in different time periods, from 1979 through 2022. The 95% Cabernet Sauvignon is joined by 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% each of Merlot and Petit Verdot, aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 72% new. Ripening was even and relatively slow, allowing the flavors, aromas, and acidity to meld seamlessly across a full-bodied palate of lovely red and black fruit and floral tones. The tannins are melded within the breadth of the wine, textured to a delicate degree, well-balanced throughout. This is simply a gorgeous wine. Hold and drink 2032-2045.\" (May 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"Elegant, nuanced and concentrated, with a loamy-clay cast to the fresh thyme and subtle tuberose aromas, which give way to a rich yet balanced core of blackberry and cassis notes lifted by saline-edged acidity. Wonderfully fresh while moving toward the finish, where the flavors come together and linger harmoniously around well-formed tannins. Drink now through 2040. 17,800 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.\" - Aaron Romano (May 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"Puente Alto, located in the highest part of the Maipo Valley, is a renowned appellation for producing some of Chile's finest wines. This elegant Cabernet opens with sweet blackberry aromas and subtle hints of licorice. Sip it slowly allowing its flavorful profile to fully unfold, offering ripe red berries intertwined with delicate oak spices. Energized acidity enhances the wine's structure, carrying through to a finish highlighted by a touch of peppercorn.\" – Jesica Vargas (Jul 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94+ Points - Wine Advocate:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"The 2022 Don Melchor spent 15 months in 72% new oak barrels and lands somewhere between the open-knit ease of 2021 and the tense introversion of 2020. A coiled, dark-fruited nose of tobacco leaves, dried herbs, graphite and dark chocolate transitions to a slow-moving, velvety palate. It concludes with a taut, inward finish of gently chewy tannins that regenerates the graphite-laden intensity found on the nose. With time in the glass, its structural burliness softened and melded with additional layers of chocolate-driven richness. This could possibly merit a higher score with additional time in bottle to slightly congeal the finish. It's a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot.\" – Matthew Luczy (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":52659799392621,"sku":null,"price":149.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/2021-min.webp?v=1731687597"},{"product_id":"concha-y-toro-don-melchor-cabernet-sauvignon-2019-maipo-chile-xx","title":"Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 (Maipo, Chile) - [JS 98] [F 97] [VM 96] [WE 94] [WS 94] [WA 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eConcha y Toro’s history begins in 1883 with our founder’s -Melchor Concha y Toro- dream to create the best wines. A tradition persevered over time, inspiring us to work with passion and excellence in our brands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConcha y Toro is today the most admired wine brand in the world. Our wines deliver rewarding and unique experiences to our consumers around the world. We are present in over 130 countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Vineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePuente Alto is a privileged terroir, determined by the singular combination of soil, climate conditions, the vineyard, and a delicate human touch to craft vintages that are a faithful expression of this special place. Located at the foot of the Andes, 650 metres above sea level, the Don Melchor winery is set on the north bank of the Maipo River and has long been a keystone in the history of Chilean wine. Ever since French pre-phylloxera vines were imported in the mid-19th Century, this part of the Maipo Valley has been growing in prestige and quality, building on a past rich in tradition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard today consists of 127 hectares, carefully divided into seven parcels, of which roughly 90 per cent hold Cabernet Sauvignon vines, with 7.1 per cent Cabernet Franc, 1.9 per cent Merlot and the final one 1 per cent growing Petit Verdot grapes. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines average more than 30 years of age and correspond to a selection originally brought over from Bordeaux at the end of the 19th Century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeep purplish-red in color. The wine from this vintage shows an extraordinary elegance with an abundance of fresh red fruit and notes of blackcurrants and owers. On the palate it has an enormous wealth of flavors, with breadth from beginning to end, and plenty of energy in perfect balance with the elegance of the textures and flavors.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRed meats, especially lamb, and game meats prepared by di•erent methods—roasted, braised, and with sauces made with red wine, mushrooms, rosemary, and tomatoes. Assorted terrines and pâtés, especially duck with tru•es. Dry and well-aged or creamy cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTechnical Data\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarietal Composition:\u003c\/strong\u003e 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e Don Melchor Vineyard, D.O. Puente Alto, Alto Maipo Valley.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Description:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Don Melchor Vineyard is located along the north bank of the Maipo River, at an altitude of 650 m.a.s.l. It is composed of 127 hectares: 90% dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon; 7.1% to Cabernet Franc, 1.9% to Merlot, and 1% to Petit Verdot. To date, the vineyard's vines are over 30 years old on average.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVinification:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlcoholic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks and lasted 8 days at 25º–26ºC with 3 pumpovers per day. Upon completion of the fermentation process, the tank was hermetically sealed for an 8- to 10-day maceration at 23º–25ºC for greater extraction and smoother tannins. At the end of the maceration period, each tank was drained, tasted, and evaluated for selection by the Don Melchor enological and viticultural team. All of the wines were later tasted and selected to make the nal blend, which was then transferred to barrels. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels (72% new and 28% second use).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAging Potential:\u003c\/strong\u003e Over 35 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Very perfumed and aromatic with blackcurrant, sweet-tobacco and Spanish-cedar character. Full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that build on the palate and take the fruit and other flavors to an endless finish. More refined than the perfect 2018 and almost as compelling. Drink in 2023 or after.\" (Mar 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Falstaff: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Dark ruby with purple reflections and subtle ochre at the rim. Hints of tobacco, juicy plum, blackcurrant, some tar, red-fruited underpinnings, plus floral nuances. The palate is supple, complex and deep, endowed with cassis aromas and good depth. The fine, ripe tannins are mature, and the wine has an elegant texture, shows backbone and finesse of the classic Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon type, and has great length.\" (Feb 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Vinous Media: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Melchor is also 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot and spent 15 months in 75% new French barrels. Vivid garnet in color. The rich, complex nose presents notes of black currant, mint, and hints of balsam and ash over a bed of oak and a whiff of cedar. In the mouth, hefty volume, fine-grained tannins and a broad expression combine, supported by a structure that is rather delicate for a wine of this intensity. The long-lasting finish ends with an aftertaste of fruit and mint before the oak has the final say. This will grow in the bottle.\" – Joaquin Hidalgo (Jun 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Enthusiast: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The nose of this flavorful red opens up with raspberry, cherry, licorice and peppercorn aromas. Well-integrated tannins are smooth and provide a good structure to the palate. Black and red fruit appear alongside dried herbs and vanilla flavors. It has depth and is balanced, with a lingering spiciness on the finish.\" – Jesica Vargas (Sep 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Spectator: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This standout red offers svelte entry but quickly accelerates to a rich and well-structured palate, built around flavors of black cherry, plum and baking spices that never waver, gaining dimension from fresh mineral acidity and subtle loam and bay leaf nuances. Ends with rich, well-integrated and mouthcoating tannins as well as hints of cocoa. Drink now through 2028. 11,500 cases made, 4,000 cases imported.\" - MaryAnn Worobiec (May 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"There is a little more ripeness in the 2019 Don Melchor, which in warmer years shows notes of ripe plums and is subtly balsamic. The palate is round and powerful, with good balance and nice integration of the oak. As usual, there is a combination of elegance and power, with subtle mintiness and harmony. 156,000 bottles were produced. It was bottled in December 2020.\" – Luis Gutierrez (Aug 2021)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":53979481080173,"sku":null,"price":254.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/DonMelchor2018.png?v=1627416255"},{"product_id":"concha-y-toro-don-melchor-cabernet-sauvignon-2020-maipo-chile-xx","title":"Concha y Toro Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (Maipo, Chile) - [F 97] [JS 97] [WRO 96] [VM 95] [WS 95] [WE 93] [WA 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eConcha y Toro’s history begins in 1883 with our founder’s -Melchor Concha y Toro- dream to create the best wines. A tradition persevered over time, inspiring us to work with passion and excellence in our brands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConcha y Toro is today the most admired wine brand in the world. Our wines deliver rewarding and unique experiences to our consumers around the world. We are present in over 130 countries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Vineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePuente Alto is a privileged terroir, determined by the singular combination of soil, climate conditions, the vineyard, and a delicate human touch to craft vintages that are a faithful expression of this special place. Located at the foot of the Andes, 650 metres above sea level, the Don Melchor winery is set on the north bank of the Maipo River and has long been a keystone in the history of Chilean wine. Ever since French pre-phylloxera vines were imported in the mid-19th Century, this part of the Maipo Valley has been growing in prestige and quality, building on a past rich in tradition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard today consists of 127 hectares, carefully divided into seven parcels, of which roughly 90 per cent hold Cabernet Sauvignon vines, with 7.1 per cent Cabernet Franc, 1.9 per cent Merlot and the final one 1 per cent growing Petit Verdot grapes. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines average more than 30 years of age and correspond to a selection originally brought over from Bordeaux at the end of the 19th Century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeep purplish-red in color. The wine from this vintage shows an extraordinary elegance with an abundance of fresh red fruit and notes of blackcurrants and owers. On the palate it has an enormous wealth of flavors, with breadth from beginning to end, and plenty of energy in perfect balance with the elegance of the textures and flavors.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRed meats, especially lamb, and game meats prepared by di•erent methods—roasted, braised, and with sauces made with red wine, mushrooms, rosemary, and tomatoes. Assorted terrines and pâtés, especially duck with tru•es. Dry and well-aged or creamy cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTechnical Data\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarietal Composition:\u003c\/strong\u003e 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard:\u003c\/strong\u003e Don Melchor Vineyard, D.O. Puente Alto, Alto Maipo Valley.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Description:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Don Melchor Vineyard is located along the north bank of the Maipo River, at an altitude of 650 m.a.s.l. It is composed of 127 hectares: 90% dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon; 7.1% to Cabernet Franc, 1.9% to Merlot, and 1% to Petit Verdot. To date, the vineyard's vines are over 30 years old on average.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVinification:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlcoholic fermentation was carried out in stainless steel tanks and lasted nine days at 25 to 26°C (77 to 79°F). During the rst half of fermentation, three pump-overs were carried out daily, moving one volume of juice per day and then decreasing it to half or a third towards the end of alcoholic fermentation. Once the fermentation process was complete, the tank was hermetically sealed for a maceration of approximately one week (shorter than usual) at temperatures between 23 and 25°C, for a so er extraction of tannins. At the end of the maceration period, the wine is racked, tasted and selected by Don Melchor's winemaking team and sent to French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. Later in July, wines are tasted and chosen to make the nal blend, which is then transferred back to barrels to nish aging before bottling. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels (71% new and 29% second use).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAging Potential:\u003c\/strong\u003e Over 35 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Deep and serious with black olives, blackberries, blueberries, tobacco leaf, sweet red capsicum, ash, dried meat and a hint of black chocolate. This is a more direct, full-bodied Don Melchor, filled with solid blackberries and wrapped by tight, fine-grained tannins. Long and deep. 92% cabernet sauvignon, 6% cabernet franc, 1% merlot and 1% petit verdot. Better after 2024.\" (May 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Falstaff: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Beautifully pure notions of dark plum and crushed blackberry come with smooth evocations of vanilla, cinnamon and cedar on the nose. There even is a glint of nutmeg. The palate is translucent and just as aromatic as the nose, it is especially that nutmeg and vanilla tone accentuating really pure, ripe and concentrated fruit. Tannins are silky and smooth, show their firmness only on the finish, while lovely freshness lends great balance. A wine made to be elegant rather than powerful, bravo.\" (Jan 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Review Online: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Before Seña, Almaviva, Clos Apalta, or Viñedo Chadwick appeared on the scene, there was Don Melchor, standing head and shoulders above every other Chilean wine. Formerly, Don Melchor was the flagship of the Concha y Toro winery. Since 2019, it has become its own entity and winery within Concha y Toro, hence the subtle change in producer to Viña Don Melchor. Make no mistake: It is still Concha y Toro’s flagship and one of Chile’s — and the world’s — best Cabernet-based wines. Enrique Tirado, Don Melchor’s winemaker, explains that the wine is an expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, which explains why that grape always comprises at least 90 percent of the blend. The 2020 Don Melchor leads with a subtle hint of mint and other aromatic herbal nuances. It’s refreshingly restrained, not a fruit bomb, with suave tannins that magically provide plenty of structure. As it sits in the glass, plum-like fruitiness intermingles with spice and savory notes. It impresses with elegance and persistence, not power.\" - Michael Apstein (Mar 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Vinous Media: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Melchor has a 6% dash of Cabernet Franc along with 1% splashes of Merlot and Petit Verdot from Puente Alto, Maipo, and was aged for 15 months in 71% new French barrels. Vivid garnet red in the glass. The aromatic profile features red fruit such as cherry and black currant along with hints of mint, spice and pepper over secondary aromas from the aging process, including a gentle whiff of cedar. Intense in the mouth, with juicy freshness and young tannins that will integrate better in time. The fruit was especially vivid this year, adding greatly to the nuance and subtle details. This will growth deeper in the bottle.\" – Joaquin Hidalgo (Jun 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Inviting aromas of chocolate-covered cherry, dried rose petal and petrichor set the stage for this well-structured red, which balances concentrated berry and mission fig flavors against vibrant acidity, lending a lush, mouthwatering quality to a finish that swirls with cassis, spices and fine tannins. Drink now through 2038. 14,600 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.\" - Aaron Romano (Apr 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Enthusiast: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Full bodied, this classic Cabernet Sauvignon displays ripe red-plum aromas followed by oak spice. It has a very fine balance on the palate between ripe fruit and good acidity that will keep this fresh as it evolves. Oak flavors are a bit intense but still pleasant providing notes of chocolate in the supple finish.\" – Jesica Vargas (Mar 2023)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2020 Don Melchor opens with a distinctly more red-fruited and candied bouquet than the other iterations served next to it, while retaining its classic Cabernet aromas of dried tobacco, cedar and mint. The palate is juicy and sweetly concentrated before transitioning to a comparatively stiff, introverted and drying finish that, after aeration, eventually is supported by a creamy, toasted-oak-derived texture. It is a fine wine, to be sure, but to me, it falls short of the more harmonious 2021 and 2022 harvests. It's 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% each Merlot and Petit Verdot.\" – Matthew Luczy (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":53979641151853,"sku":null,"price":244.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/DonMelchor2018.png?v=1627416255"},{"product_id":"concha-y-toro-amelia-chardonnay-valle-del-limari-do-maipo-valley-chile-xx","title":"Concha y Toro Amelia Chardonnay Valle del Limari DO (Limari Valley, Chile) - [TA 97] [VM 96] [JS 96] [WA 95] [WE 93] [DM 91]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eConcha y Toro’s history begins in 1883 with their founder’s -Melchor Concha y Toro- dream to create the best wines. First produced over 30 years ago, their flagship wine was named in honor of the founded and now Don Melchor has reached a solid position that enables it to face new challenges, highlighting its maturity and ability to express its own identity through Viña Don Melchor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis identity is built upon a base of three fundamental pillars—its impeccable heritage and history, the peerless conditions of its terroir, and the deep understanding and expertise in the making of the Don Melchor wine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Amelia Chardonnay comes from the Limari Valley, located 30 km north of Santiago - it has a semi-arid coastal climate. The soils of Limari are of a unique typicality, with the presence of calcium carbonate in different strata, giving an intense mineral character to the wines. This valley is also very rich in clay, which holds water and nutrients, being especially favorable to Chardonnay.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eClean and bright, light yellow color. It is a complex and layered wine, dominated by minerality, white flowers, pears and flint. It combines the structure of the red clay very well with the minerality of the soil. It is long, tense and refreshing and very long on the palate, with an attractive salinity on the finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairings: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis wine pairs well with fish and shellfish as well as with creamy cheese like Camembert and Brie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVinification:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are selected on a conveyor belt that takes the whole clusters to the press without destemming. The fermentation takes place in French oak barrels of which 10% are rst-use and the rest are 2-3 years old. Alcoholic fermentation lasts 8 days at a temperature of between 18°C and 22°C, and the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels (usually 10% new and 90% second use).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points \u0026amp; #1 White Wine of the Year - Tim Atkin, MW:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e“It’s good to see Chile’s biggest winery making one of the country’s outstanding white wines under the guidance of the brilliant Marcelo Papa. Sourced from the legendary Quebrada Seca vineyard, this is a salty, stony, Pacific Ocean-influenced style of Chardonnay with no malolactic, impressive focus and balance, layers of toast, tangerine and waxed lemons and a pithy, mouth-watering finish. World class.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2023 Chardonnay Amelia from Limarí was aged in used barrels with traditional bâtonnage. It delivers expressive aromas of praline, cream, green apple and subtle notes of wet stone and lime. The palate is creamy yet taut, with medium tension and vibrant freshness. Though less weighty than the 2022, this is more agile and precise. Elegant and nuanced, it finishes with lingering impressions of oak and fruit. Without a doubt, this is among the finest whites from coastal Chile.\" – Joaquin Hidalgo (Jun 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Quite a fresh and chalky nose of eggshells, lemon peel, flint and a touch of seashells. Fresh and saline on the palate, with a medium to full body and lots of tension and saline character. Lightly briny and long, without getting too extreme. 10% new oak barrels. All from Quebrada Seca. Drink now or hold.\" (Apr 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"Sourced from the renowned Quebrada Seca site in coastal Limarí, the 2023 Amelia Chardonnay was barrel fermented in 10% new barrique without undergoing malolactic conversion. The nose presents a rich, honeyed and floral bouquet with impressive definition and clarity, leading to a similarly powerful, textural palate invigorated by mineral streaks. It finishes with a balanced, layered profile that is both broad and refreshing, revealing more lingering chalky notes with additional aeration.\" – Matthew Luczy (Mar 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"Limarí is a valley with low rainfall and lots of sunlight balanced by cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean. Chardonnay has shown excellent results in this region. This white begins with aromas of apricot, quince and a touch of ginger. It has depth and energy, exhibiting wood spices, lime, stone fruit and herbs that run smoothly on the palate. A light note of salt adds interest to the finish.\" – Jesica Vargas (Jul 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Astringent green oak, concentrated fruit beneath. Smoky lemon notes, refreshing acidity. Rounded palate shows ripe citrus, dried herbs, dairy and stone fruit. Layered, textured finish.\" – Amanda Barnes MW (Sep 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BREAKTHRU","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":53979683783021,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/amelia.png?v=1789569944"}],"url":"https:\/\/artisan.wine\/collections\/thursday-9-24-don-melchor-masterclass-100pt-rank-1-vertical.oembed","provider":"Artisan W\u0026S","version":"1.0","type":"link"}