Baron Philippe de Rothschild Mapu Reserva Carménère 2023

Winery Background and History

Baron Philippe de Rothschild is a storied Bordeaux wine company, well known for estates such as Château Mouton Rothschild. With its Mapu line, the Rothschild family extended its presence into Chile, aiming to express the country’s terroir under high standards. “Mapu” is a word from the indigenous Mapuche people meaning “earth,” symbolizing respect for soil and place. The Reserva range captures both local grape varietals and Rothschild’s winemaking philosophy: careful vineyard selection, modern practices, and consistency. Mapu wines are produced primarily in Chile’s Central Valley, reflecting both fruit intensity and accessibility.

Producer and Wine Maker

The wine is produced by Baron Philippe de Rothschild Chile (MAPU). The winemaking team combines local Chilean expertise with oversight and quality control aligned with the parent Rothschild group’s methods. They manage vineyard sourcing, fermentation, oak aging (for Reserva wines), lab work, blending, and overall style so that the wine reflects both the varietal Carménère and the Chilean terroir while retaining polish.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes are sourced from the Central Valley of Chile (Valle Central), which includes sub-regions like Maipo Valley among others. The area has a Mediterranean climate: warm to hot days, cooler nights which help keep acidity and freshness. Soils are generally well-drained, with alluvial deposits and possibly some clay or loam depending on the parcel. The micro-climate, with diurnal temperature variation, helps Carménère ripen fully while retaining aromatic freshness.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After harvest, the grapes undergo destemming and crushing. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperature. For the Reserva category (including this Carmenère), there is oak aging: small oak barrels are used to impart additional structure and complexity. Some portion of the wine remains in stainless steel to preserve fruit. Aging period is approximately 6-8 months in oak for Reserva Bottlings.

Tasting notes

Colour is deep ruby-red. On the nose, there are aromas of dark berries such as blackberry and plum, plus notes of red cherries, gentle spice (vanilla, maybe a touch of mocha or coffee), and subtle herbal or earthy undertones typical of Carménère. On the palate it is medium-to-full bodied, with ripe fruit flavours, soft but noticeable tannins, balanced acidity. Finish is moderately long, with fruit lingering alongside oak spice and a hint of green pepper/herbal character.

Food & Wine Pairing

Best with grilled or roasted red meats (beef steak, lamb chops), game meats, dishes with rich sauces (pepper, mushroom). Also pairs well with strong cheeses (aged cheddar, manchego), roasted vegetables, and perhaps grilled peppers. Good match with dishes using herbs like rosemary, thyme or sauces with a touch of smokiness.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 15-18°C (59-64°F). Use a large red wine glass to allow the aromas to open. Decanting for 20-30 minutes may help soften tannins and reveal more complexity. Once opened, best consumed within 1-2 days. Avoid serving too warm, which can accentuate alcohol, or too cold, which can hide aroma and flavour.

Storage and Aging Potential

Drinkable upon release. Under good storage (cool, stable temperature around 12-14°C, moderate humidity, away from light), it has potential to age for about 3-5 years. Over that time, tannins may mellow further and tertiary notes (leather, earth) may appear, but major fruit freshness will diminish.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Carménère

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5 %