El Principal Memorias 2018
El Principal Memorias 2018 is a dry, full-bodied red from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot (Maipo Valley, Chile), in the full, structured reds style. Tannins are firm and acidity fresh; oak influence is some. Good with barbecue, steak, beef stew, lamb. Drink now or within 11 years (to about 2037). No need to decant. Critic score 94/100 (merchant-reported). Cheapest offer £32.84 at 8wines UK.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morgenster Estate Reserve 2014 Morgenster · Western Cape | £33.67 | |||
| Jordan Cobblers Hill 2021 Jordan · Stellenbosch | £30.13 | |||
| Stark Conde Three Pines Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 Stark Conde · Stellenbosch | £29.48 | |||
| Antinori Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato 2023 Antinori · Tuscany | £27.79 |
Drink now or cellar for up to 11 years. No need to decant before serving. This punchy Bordeaux-style blend was first created in 1999 in homage to the indigenous Picunches people who lived here in the Maipo Valley prior to the arrival of the Conquistadors. The label is adorned with a spiral design, an ancient symbol which references the circle of life and the wisdom inherent in nature. The bottling is a careful composition of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Carmenere and Syrah which combine together beautifully to produce a muscular and multi-layered wine. The grapes are sourced from prime vineyards which sit at 780 metres above sea level on sandy, well-draining soils and enjoy sunny summer days cooled by breezes from the nearby Andes Mountains. Once vinified the young wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 17 months to add polish and extra complexity before bottling. This is a full-bodied and powerful wine with luscious dark fruit notes like cassis, blackberries and dark cherries. On the palate the tannins are smooth yet firm with a well-developed structure which will respond well to extra cellaring. A great partner for red meats including barbecued ribs, steak, or a hearty beef stew.