Tasting: Maniña Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Maniña Cabernet Sauvignon

Variety of Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Region/Country of Origin: Valle Central, Chile

Vintage Year: 2019

Price: $12.88

Winery Tasting Notes: This South American gem is a rare find and once your palate has surrendered to the smooth flavors of this wine, it will forever hold a place in your cellar. Let yourself get caught up in the reverie of Maniña, with delicate notes of cassis and olive complemented by smoky tones. Sophisticated in style, this wine whisks one's senses into a state of splendor with its abundant flavors of vanilla, plum, and spices. Pairs beautifully with braised short ribs or Asian beef stir-fry (kroger.com, 2022).

Wine Folly Notes: Wine Folly describes Cabernet Sauvignon as being very tannic, dry, and full-bodied. This made sense to me, and I agreed with it.  It is “the world’s most popular wine” and is “concentrated and age-worthy” according to Wine Folly. I thought this was interesting since Cabernet Sauvignon is my favorite red that I have tried so far. Cabernet Sauvignon has notes of black cherry, black currant, cedar, baking spices, and graphite. I liked that I was able to try a Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile as it is a very popular production country. I want to try one from France next, since that it the top producing country for it (e-text, pg. 223-224).

My Review: Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this wine and will not be purchasing it again. When I smelled it, I sensed bell pepper and a more savory note. After tasting the wine, I thought it was very bitter and sour. It was also extremely dry and not very balanced with any other flavors. I could taste the vanilla and plum notes Maniña had; however, they were not strong. I tried this wine on its own, without food.