Escudo Rojo Origine Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winery Background and History

Escudo Rojo is a Chilean wine brand founded in 1999 by Baron Philippe de Rothschild Chile. It blends the winemaking heritage and standards of the Rothschild family with the expressive terroirs of Chile. The aim has been to create wines that balance fruit, oak, structure, and elegance, demonstrating both local character and international refinement. The winery emphasizes meticulous parcel selection, sustainable viticulture, and careful in-house quality controls. Located in Buin-Maipo, the estate benefits from long diurnal temperature shifts, ideal soils, and well-drained plots.

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Baron Philippe de Rothschild Maipo Chile under the Escudo Rojo label. The winemaking team combines local Chilean viticultural expertise with guidance consistent with Rothschild’s international practices. Grapes are hand-picked, sorted, fermented with precise temperature control, and matured partly in oak to give complexity without overshadowing varietal expression. The producer uses both new and used French oak for ageing, while monitoring barrel performance and blending for balance.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Origine come from Maipo Valley vineyards, approximately 30-45 km south of Santiago, at the foot of the Andes. Soils are poor in alluvial materials and rich in pebbles, offering excellent drainage and minerality. The climate is Mediterranean, with very hot daytime temperatures in summer and cooler nights, enhancing aromatic retention. The vineyards enjoy a strong diurnal range, which helps preserve acidity while achieving good phenolic ripeness.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvested when optimal ripeness is achieved, the grapes are hand-picked and sorted. Fermentation takes place under temperature control in stainless steel followed by aging in oak barrels. The wine is matured for approximately 12 months in oak, with about 25% new oak and 75% one-year-old oak barrels. Care is taken to integrate oak and fruit, managing tannins and maintaining freshness.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby red colour. Aromas of wild strawberry, cherry, and black currant mingle with delicate vanilla, mocha, and toasted hazelnut. The palate is concentrated with ripe dark fruit, a smooth texture, balanced acidity, and refined tannins. There is depth and complexity, with secondary spice and oak notes integrated elegantly. The finish is long, showing fruit, oak spice, and a hint of minerality.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats (beef steak, lamb), game dishes (venison), hearty stews, and rich sauces. Also works well with aged cheeses, particularly those with stronger flavor like Manchego, aged Gouda, or Comté. Dishes with roasted vegetables or mushrooms, or ones with hints of smoke or spice, will complement the oak and fruit of this wine.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16-18 °C (approximately 60-65°F). Use a large Bordeaux-style red wine glass to allow aromatics to open up. Decant for 30-45 minutes before drinking to soften tannins and allow full aroma development. Once opened, consume within 2-3 days if possible. Avoid extremely warm or cold serving temperatures to ensure the wine’s delicacy and structure are preserved.

Storage and Aging Potential

Best enjoyed between 3-7 years from vintage under proper cellar conditions: stable temperature around 12-14 °C, moderate humidity (≈70-80 %), minimal light exposure and vibration. Over time tertiary aromas like leather, tobacco, or earth may emerge, while fruit will mellow but retain elegance.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Cabernet Sauvignon 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.0 % 

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 91 / 100 

• James Suckling: 94 / 100 

• Wine Spectator: 92 / 100