Baron Philippe de Rothschild Mapu Cabernet Sauvignon-Carménère 2023

Winery Background and History

Baron Philippe de Rothschild is a Bordeaux wine house with a long legacy, including famed estates like Château Mouton Rothschild. The “Mapu” line is its Chilean initiative, applying Rothschild’s quality standards and expertise in terroir expression, while highlighting local varietals and climates. “Mapu” means “Earth” in the indigenous Mapuche language, reflecting respect for the land. The wines are produced in Chile’s major wine regions, particularly the Central Valley / Maipo Valley, with a focus on varietal blends that are approachable yet expressive.

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Baron Philippe de Rothschild Chile under the Mapu label. The winemaking team combines local Chilean vineyard management with Rothschild’s international technical know-how. For this blend, the team sources grapes from selected parcels suited to Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, overseeing harvest timing, fermentation, blending, and stabilization. Emphasis is on balance between varietal intensity, structural tannins, and freshness.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from the Maipo Valley, within the Central Valley of Chile. The soils are generally well-drained, often with gravel, alluvial deposits, and possibly some clay components. The climate is Mediterranean: hot summers with warm days, cool nights (due to altitude and proximity to the Andes), which helps in retaining acids and aromatics. Diurnal temperature variation aids in obtaining good ripeness while preserving freshness.

Vinification & Aging Methods

From vendor descriptions: grapes are harvested, then fermented in stainless steel tanks under temperature control. After primary fermentation, some oak aging is likely used to add complexity and structure. The wine is described as having spice and oak contributions in aroma, suggesting oak use (probably used barrels or a mix) though exact aging duration and proportion of oak is not confirmed.

Tasting Notes

Colour: deep red, likely ruby to garnet. Aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, and possibly cassis, interwoven with spice and pepper. On the palate, fresh fruit flavours balanced with structured yet smooth tannins; there is a blend of the Cabernet’s backbone and the softer, characteristic Carménère notes (maybe some green pepper or herbal tones). Finish is likely medium to long, with fruit, spice, and maybe oak‐derived vanilla or toast nuances.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs well with grilled red meats (steak, lamb), roasted game, dishes with a bit of roasted or smoked component, and strong cheeses (e.g. aged cheddar, semi-hard cheeses). Also good with hearty stews, barbecued meats, and spicy pepper sauces that can match the wine’s fruit and spice profile.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at about 16-18 °C. Use a large red wine glass (Bordeaux or similar) to allow aromas to open up. Decanting for ~30 minutes may help the wine loosen up, especially if fresh from bottle. Once opened, should be consumed over 1-2 days. Avoid serving too warm to prevent alcohol dominance and too cold which mutes fruit.

Storage and Aging Potential

Drinkable upon release, but will benefit from short-term aging. Under proper cellar conditions (cool & stable temperature ~12-14 °C, moderate humidity, away from light) it could develop further complexity for 3-5 years. Over time, tannin integration, development of secondary aromas (earth, leather, herbs) may appear.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon + Carménère (exact percentages not publicly confirmed) 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

~ 13.5 % ABV