There is something fascinating about Chilean wine production. If only for the fact that the vineyards here climb the foothills of the Andes, even though they are only a few kilometers from the ocean coast. Hard to imagine a more extreme location. Not coincidentally, in the Aconcagua Valley itself, about 100 kilometers north of the capital Santiago, and home to Viña Errázuriz's estate vineyards, it was long thought (erroneously) that conditions were too extreme to aim for quality viticulture. Too hot and dry. In actual fact, just the relative proximity to the Ocean is an important outlet, and international grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot, grow really well here. A fine example of this is this Errázuriz Aconcagua Alto Cabernet Sauvignon, made from grapes hand-picked early in the morning and inspected on a double sorting table before being sent for vinification. Carefully crafted, the wine matures for 14 months in French oak barrels, about one-third of which are new. A beautiful bright ruby red color with violet hues, moderately intense, this wine shows aromas of red and black fruits on the nose, with hints of clove and pastry. In the mouth it is decidedly fruity, with a soft note reminiscent of blueberry pie. Medium-bodied, this Cabernet Sauvignon has fine tannins that give it a very persistent finish.