Los Vascos wines blend Lafite tradition with the unique terroir of Chile to create elegant wines that bring exceptional to the everyday. The vision of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) to expand their estate took them to South America in 1988, becoming the first French viticultural investment in modern Chile. Since then, a comprehensive modernization and investment program has been undertaken, oriented towards the production of fine wine using and adapting the viticultural experiences of Bordeaux and other areas where Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) is present. The vineyard’s own Chardonnay grapes are complemented by a selection of grapes from the Central Valley, which is renowned for its great Chardonnay production.
Los Vascos is located in Valley de Caneten (Colchagua), a closed valley in the central zone of Chile, approximately 25 miles from the sea. The valley provides a perfect microclimate for high quality viticulture, with Northern exposure to lands uncontaminated by airborne or water-borne pollutants. Daily on-shore winds provide temperature changes between 68-77°F, for optimum maturation of the grapes. With 1,581 acres, it is one of the largest vineyards in the central Colchagua valley, at the foot of Mount Cañeten.
The grapes are sourced from the coolest terroirs in Colchagua Valley, complemented by grapes sourced from vinegrowing partners in the neighboring Casablanca Valley.
The main characteristics of the 2019 season were an early harvest, low rainfall, and a slight risk of disease and pests. It began with a frost-free winter with little rain and average low temperatures that were rather warm for the period. The spring was quite mild, despite the temperature dropping below freezing a couple of times. Finally, the summer was hot with maximum temperatures of 100°F. As a result of these characteristics, the harvest was 13 days earlier than the previous season, taking place from Mid to late February.
The grapes were harvested before daylight in order to keep a maximum of freshness. On arrival at the winery, they were pressed and fermented at low temperature in stainless steel tanks to preserve their aromatic potential. The wine does see partial ageing on its lees, which help create its unique mouthfeel.
The wine is an intense yellow color. Fruit-scented nose of ripe pineapple, banana, and honeydew melon finish with lime and a fresh hazelnut note. The wine is very well-balanced with creamy and persistent mouthfeel. The wine is rich on the palate, with a great persistence and refreshing acidity. Enjoy it with pan-fried pork chops and mushroom risotto.