Sprouts has opened close to home and this has allowed me to taste more wines that I didn't know of in all price ranges. Obviously, not every day one can buy the wines one would like, so I take the opportunity to discover new brands and investigate new proposals. Today I'm going to talk about Hidden Stache.
Today, we're taking a journey down to the sunny Valle Central of Chile, a wine lover's paradise known for its fertile valleys and exceptional vino. Our bottle of interest? The Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon, a veritable testament to Chile's winemaking prowess. If you haven't had a sip of this one yet, buckle up because you're in for a treat!
Now, before we uncork this bottle, let's set the scene. The Valle Central, or Central Valley, is the beating heart of Chilean wine production. Its Mediterranean climate, marked by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, alongside the unique soil composition, provide the perfect conditions for grape growing, particularly for Cabernet Sauvignon. You see, Cab Sauv, as wine aficionados like to call it, is a tough grape that enjoys soaking up the sun, making it right at home in Chile.
Back to the Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine stands as a testament to Chile's winemaking legacy and the world-class Cabernet Sauvignon that the region produces. One glance at the bottle, and you're struck by the simplicity yet elegance of the design - a bit like the wine within, but we'll get to that in a bit.
On pouring, you're greeted with a deep, rich ruby-red color that's a feast for the eyes. Give it a swirl and bring it up for a sniff. Right away, you're hit with a seductive nose filled with ripe blackberries and black currants. Dig a bit deeper, and you'll start picking up a beautiful blend of warm spices and a hint of vanilla, thanks to the oak ageing process. And let's not forget that unique minerality, a nod to the terroir of Valle Central.
Now, for the fun part - tasting! Your first sip of the Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon is like biting into a medley of juicy dark fruits. The blackberries and currants you sniffed on the nose make a bold appearance on the palate. But wait, there's more. The warm spices unfurl, weaving in with a touch of vanilla and dark chocolate, making for a complex yet balanced flavor profile. And just when you think you've got it all figured out, the distinctive Valle Central minerality kicks in, adding an exciting twist to the finish.
In terms of texture, Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon has got it going on! The wine is full-bodied with a velvety mouthfeel. The tannins are firm yet finely grained, and there's just the right amount of acidity to keep everything in balance. In essence, it's a bold, structured, and harmonious wine that begs to be savored.
Pairing Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon is a joy, thanks to its versatile nature. It stands up well to Pairing , particularly beef and lamb, where the smoky flavors complement the wine's fruit-forward profile.
And if you're in for a bit of indulgence, try it with a piece of dark chocolate - it's a pairing that's hard to resist!
All in all, Hidden Stache Cabernet Sauvignon is a shining example of Chile's ability to produce world-class wines. It encapsulates the spirit of Valle Central, and with every sip, you get a taste of the region's sun-kissed vines, its rich soil, and the dedication of the winemakers. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual sipper, this bottle promises a flavorful adventure and showcases why Chilean wines deserve a spot in your wine collection. In my opinion is a correct wine for every day and the best is the price-quality ratio.
Wine Tasting Note.
Nose: You're instantly greeted by a rich bouquet of ripe blackberries and black currants, vibrant and inviting. Allow your senses to wander a bit more, and you'll uncover warm, inviting spices and a whisper of vanilla, the endearing result of its time spent in oak. There's also a distinctive mineral streak, a kind of authenticity stamp from the Valle Central region.
Palate: The fruit-forward character continues on the palate. It's as if you've taken a bite into a handful of fresh, juicy dark fruits. The blackberries and currants make a grand re-entry, but they've brought company. A melange of warm spices unfurls on your tongue, harmoniously intertwined with hints of vanilla and dark chocolate. But just as you're getting acquainted with these flavors, the minerality kicks in, offering an exciting twist to the finish.
Finish: The finish is a full-bodied with a velvety mouthfeel, it embraces your palate like a warm, comforting blanket. The tannins are firm yet finely grained, and there's just enough acidity to strike a perfect balance.
Paired at home lamb ribs and vegetables in June, 2023.
Remember, if you want a deeper dive into any specific aspect of this wine, or if you want to hear about more of my food and wine adventures, don't hesitate to ask.
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