Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

The 2007 Santa Rita Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon is a refined and confident expression of Maipo Valley Cabernet at peak maturity. Sourced from old vines in Alto Jahuel, this vintage balances power with restraint; a hallmark of Casa Real at its best.

Now fully evolved, the wine shows a deep garnet core with brick hues at the rim. Aromas are complex and savoury: blackcurrant, dried plum, cigar box, cedar and graphite, layered with earthy notes of leather, tobacco leaf and dried herbs. The oak is beautifully integrated, no longer distinct but structural.

On the palate, the wine is supple and resolved. Tannins have softened into a fine, velvety frame, supporting flavours of cassis, dark cherry, espresso and savoury spice. There is still admirable freshness, giving the wine lift and definition through a long, composed finish.

This is Casa Real in its classical mode; dignified, balanced and expressive rather than overtly powerful. Drinking beautifully now, it offers a compelling demonstration of Chilean Cabernet’s ability to age with grace.