Review: Maquis, Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a grape variety I don’t write about often. I have nothing against it, in fact I love a good Cab Franc. I just don’t come across it as often as other varieties.

If you’re not familiar with Cabernet Franc, think of it as similar to Cabernet Sauvignon except a little bit lighter and spicier. It’s often known for having a bell pepper characteristic, although that’s not always the case.

The exact characteristics of Cabernet Franc will vary based on the locale where the grapes were grown. In this case, it comes from Colchagua Valley, Chile.

The producer of this wine, Viña Maquis, takes pride in their Cabernet Franc particularly. In this video, their Managing Director, Ricardo Rivadeneira, explains how their location and approach influence their wines.

Based on the flavor from this wine, I’d say what they’re doing is working.

Tasting Notes

I love the herbal garrigue and floral fragrances on the nose of this wine. It also offers plenty of fruit aromatics, such as red raspberry, cherry and plum. The palate delivers bright raspberry and cherry flavors with some vegetal and spice flavors adding complexity. It has a nice brightness, thanks to the acidity. Moderate tannins also add some texture to the mouthfeel. It finishes fairly long, with lingering red berry and spice flavors.

Wine: Maquis, Gran Reserva Cabernet Franc
Varieties: 90% Cabernet Franc, 7% Carménère, 3% Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2018
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 91
Average price: $24.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.