Wine: Domus Aurea

Maipo Valley

Domus Aurea

Clos Quebrada De Macul is a single hillside family owned vineyard planted to cabernet sauvignon back in 1970 when it was unheard of in Chile to plant on more difficult-to-farm, lower-yielding hillside sites. The vines planted there are 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, and a 20% blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc.

In the past the harvest had been sold to top wineries from across the country, becoming the most expensive fruit in the market. This has motived the owners, Isabelle and Ricardo Peña, to join forces with the winemaker Ignacio Recabarren, and an US investor to begin their own winery.
Since its debute in 1996 Domus Aurea has occupied a leading role in Chile’s recent wine history, appealing to site-specificity, low yields and non-interventionist winemaking.  In 2003 Patrick Valette and Jean Pascal Lacaze joined Domus Aurea as consultant and resident winemaker, respectively.

Made with a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc, the 2006 Domus Aurea has a dazzling ruby color and an earthy, balsamic nose with hints of orange zest and chocolate. Aged for 18 months in French oak and another 18 months in the bottle, the Domus is juicy, concentrated, and balanced, with fine, well-integrated tannins. Outstanding with grilled lamb, mushrooms and sweet red peppers.

• All