Maquis Viola Carménère is produced by Viña Maquis, a family owned estate located in the Colchagua Valley of Chile between the Tinguiririca and Chimbarongo rivers. The Hurtado family has farmed the property since the early 20th century, focusing on terroir driven wines from sustainably managed vineyards. The estate benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate moderated by cooling river influences, allowing slow ripening and balanced acidity. Vineyards are planted on alluvial terraces with clay, silt and gravel soils that provide good drainage and concentration. Viña Maquis follows sustainable viticulture with careful vineyard management and minimal intervention practices, and the wine is generally suitable for vegan consumers.
Viola 2015 is made from 100% Carménère sourced from old vines planted on the estate’s best riverbank parcels. Grapes are hand harvested and fermented in stainless steel with gentle extraction to preserve aromatics and texture. The wine is then aged for approximately 18 months in French oak barrels, followed by additional bottle ageing before release. It offers complex aromas of black cherry, plum and blackberry layered with graphite, tobacco, dark chocolate, spice and dried herbs. The palate is rich yet refined, with polished tannins, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish. It pairs particularly well with slow cooked lamb, grilled beef, venison and mature hard cheeses.