Odfjell Vineyards Aliara 2010

Inviting aromas of cherry, blueberry, apricot, and fig are complemented by coffee, vanilla, cassis, and floral notes such as violet and jasmine. The palate is full, round, and juicy with velvety tannins, hints of bitter chocolate, and a long finish.

35% Carignan, 29% Syrah, 26% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Over 25 years ago, the pioneering Norwegian Armador, (ship owner) Dan Odfjell discovered and fell in love with a small corner of the famous Maipo Valley, Chile. Born of rain in Bergen, Norway, he could not resist the attraction of the austral sun in this Virgilian setting. Serendipity would later show that he had found land in Chile's premium red-wine-producing valley, where vitis vinifera has been cultivated since the 17th century. And where a soothing coastal breeze produces a microclimate conducive to distinct and beautiful wines. This was the start of their journey, the start of what we today know as Odfjell Vineyards. In the age of the sail ships, safe and healthy provisions were crucial for the success of the adventure. Aliara was a tin-cup measurement for the crew's daily ration of wine. This Aliara is an assemblage made in small and precious quantities as a tribute to this tradition. This blend spent 18 months in new French barrels before being bottled.