Founded in 1954 by Máximo Valdés, Viña Santa Alicia remains a family-run estate with over 700 hectares of vineyards spread across Maipo, Casablanca, and Biobío Valleys. Today, the winery combines generations of experience with modern winemaking techniques to express the full potential of each grape and site — from hand-harvesting to carefully controlled fermentation and oak maturation.

Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the Maipo Valley is Chile’s most historic wine region, renowned for its Mediterranean climate, long growing season, and dynamic terroir. Here, in cooler subzones like María Pinto and Melipilla, Viña Santa Alicia cultivates Carménère vines that benefit from coastal breezes and alluvial soils — conditions that help preserve the grape’s natural aromatics, balance, and varietal character.

The Santa Alicia Reserva Carménère begins with a meticulous hand harvest, followed by destemming and gentle crushing. A period of cold maceration enhances aromatic complexity and extracts ripe, smooth tannins. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures (25–28 °C) over 10–12 days. Post-fermentation, 60% of the wine is aged in a mix of French and American oak barrels for six months, while the remaining 40% remains in stainless steel to preserve its fresh, fruit-forward profile.

In the glass, it reveals a deep ruby-red hue with violet undertones, a visual cue to its richness and vibrancy. On the nose, you’ll find an alluring mix of blackberry and black cherry, complemented by spice, vanilla, roasted wood, and a hint of tobacco. The palate is smooth and rounded, with well-integrated tannins and a subtle thread of minerality that speaks to its coastal-influenced origins.

A bold and expressive red, this Carménère is a natural match for grilled meats, especially lamb and beef, and pairs equally well with game, aged cheeses, and hearty stews. Whether enjoyed at a summer barbecue or alongside winter comfort dishes, it offers a consistently satisfying and food-friendly experience — the perfect balance of fruit, spice and elegance.