2003 Concha Y Toro Marques Cabernet Sauvignon

2003 Concha Y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon

Various “other” reviews of this wine suggested drinking by 2007. I disagree! While this isn’t one to hide behind the Barolo, until now the full body and structure of the wine was masked by the young fruit and acidic tannins. I am not suggesting you let this sit any longer, but the extra 18 months I sat on this case has allowed the components of the wine to truly come together. The Marques Cabernet certainly doesn’t have the gears of Concha’s premium wines like Don Melchor or Almaviva, but when you bring value into the picture, you’ll be hard pressed to find a nicer “drinking” wine from Chile at this price point. You can still find this stuff in the $13-$15 price range. I suggest grabbing a couple bottles, throwing a couple of strips on the grill and smile knowing you can still grab a nice bottle of cab for about the same price as beer at Yankee Stadium. It is just another reason why Chilean wines continue to be so hot. Value….value….value!

Region: Puente Alto Vineyard, Maipo Valley, Chile

Grape Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Production Technique: These grapes are hand harvested during April. The wine is aged for 18 months in new (35%) and used (65%) French oak barriques, then aged a further 2 months after bottling.

Color: Deep dark red

Nose: Just like a chocolate covered cherry that was served next to a heavily toasted baguette.

Mouth feel: The velvety texture of this cab coats your mouth with sweet soft fruit… until the firm and acidic tannins dry your palate.

Average Retail Price: $15

The Field Score: 90