Miguel Torres Vigno Vignadores de Carignan 2018
(Maule Valley, Chile) - [WS 92, #44 Top 100 Of 2023] [VM 90]

About the Winery:
Familia Torres, a renowned winemaking family with roots in Spain, has been producing wines for 151 years over 5 generations. In 1979, Familia Torres arrived in Chile. Pioneers in the region, they were the first foreign winery to arrive in the country, kickstarting a new era in the quality of Chilean wines. 

About this Wine:
Historical records show that Carignan was brought to Chile between 1928 and 1947 to complement wines made from the País variety. For decades, it languished in blends of bulk wine until the 1980s, when Miguel Torres, with its recently introduced stainless steel tanks, set out to revive the variety. And so, in 1996, Miguel Torres unveiled its first Carignan under the Cordillera label, marking the first chapter in the history of one of our most renowned wines. Producers working with the variety quickly realized the undeniable quality of Carignan wines, inspiring them to join forces in 2009 to establish Chile’s first appellation wine.

In 2010, the producers—including Miguel Torres— signed their first declaration of shared commitments, and VIGNO began taking shape. The goal of VIGNO is to better position the Maule Valley by setting it apart through the development and production of character-driven wines that originate from old vines grown in dryland conditions. Today, VIGNO is an association of 14 growers. Wines produced as VIGNO must be from dry-farmed vineyards only and vines must be at least 30 years old. Wines must be produced from at least 80% Carignan grape and aged at least 3 years before released.

Tasting Notes:
Opaque, intense ruby red color. Floral and fruit aromas with toasty oak imparted undertones. The palate is big and unfolds beautifully. Here the notes perceived on the nose are complemented by hints of bay leaf and mint.

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Ratings & Reviews:

92 Points, #44 Top 100 Of 2023 - Wine Spectator:
"Elegant and complex, this red bursts with notes of plumeria, picking up hints of bay leaf, red currant, raspberry and blood orange. Fresh acidity activates additional layers of chalky minerality and toasty spice, backed by mineral-tinged tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2030. 3,500 cases made, 2,000 cases imported." - AR (May 2023)

90 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2018 Carignan Vigno from Maule spent 12 months in foudres. Purple in color. The nose offers maraschino cherry and sour cherry liqueur, meadowy aromas and a gentle oaky backdrop. Juicy with firm tannins, it's a little ethereal and limited in flavor, with a fresh, slightly tartaric core before the throat-tickling finish." - Joaquin Hidalgo (Jun 2022)