From: Colchagua Valley, Chile
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Syrah 30%

Taste: The 2014 Puente Austral Gran Reserva has been aged in third-use French oak barrels for six months. It presents sultry aromas of black cherries and plums enriched by subtle hints of spices. On the palate, it offers a round and powerful dark fruit taste balanced with soft and sweet tannins and balanced acidity.

Pairing: This wine is best served at 59º F to 61º F and is versatile in its pairings, making it an ideal companion to a wide range of dishes, from roast meats and lamb ribs to roast chicken and bolognese ravioli. One suggested pairing is with Rojões, a traditional Portuguese pork stew, which can complement the robust and fruity profile of the wine, making it a delightful experience for the senses. As someone familiar with the regional cooking of the Iberian peninsula - a similar Lamb Pimentón soup from Spain would make a great meal to pair with this wine.

Spanish-Style Lamb Stew
By John Willoughby

About. The Puente Austral wines stand out not only for its robust flavor and impeccable quality but also for the remarkable story of its creators, José Ignacio Maturana and his brother Sebastián. Born out of the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that shook Chile in 2010, Maturana Winery was founded with a passion for crafting wines of unique character and exceptional quality, embodying a way of life and representing the meticulous preservation of the vineyards’ natural conditions. With numerous awards in its repertoire, such as the “Best Wine Project of the Year and the Most Innovative Vineyard of the Year 2017”, this boutique winery has firmly established its presence in the world of fine wines.

José Ignacio Maturana, with his remarkable sensory sensitivity, has been acclaimed as one of the best winemakers in Chile, contributing his skills and knowledge to one of the most prestigious vineyards in the country and garnering significant international recognition. He has been at the helm of the successful project, “Maturana Winery,” responsible for its creation and development, establishing him as a leading figure in the field of winemaking.

Sebastián Maturana brings a wealth of experience in commercial and operational roles and new business development, predominantly in the Food Industry. A professional cook with experience as an executive chef in various renowned locations, Sebastian has pioneered the concept of wine pairing and consulted for important global vineyards.

The journey of this wine begins in the Colchagua Valley in Chile, located approximately 160 kilometers south of Santiago, between the Andes and the Coastal Mountain ranges. It is a relatively recent addition to the illustrious wine regions of South America. Still, it has quickly gained fame as the king of Chilean red wines, predominantly producing high-quality Bordeaux blends. The valley’s mild Mediterranean climate, the marine breezes, and the unique granitic and well-draining soil contribute to the exceptional growth conditions for the vines, allowing the grapes to enhance their aromatic profile while maintaining an optimal balance of ripeness and acidity.

At its core, the mission of Puente Austral Wines from Maturana Winery is to produce high-quality wines that resonate with sophisticated consumers around the world. The Reserva Privada wines from the Puente Austral line result from the winery's innovative spirit and risk-taking approach, characterized by their restricted production, fruitiness, freshness, and intensity. They are a result of a relentless pursuit of new vineyard sites, varieties, and unique blends, with each bottle reflecting a solid dedication to detail and a vision for the future based on principles of sustainable development.

The commitment of Maturana Winery is one of innovation, differentiation, quality, passion, the rescue of heritage, and fair trade. The winery’s unwavering support in naturally managing the vineyard and its emphasis on responsible payment per kilo of grapes, at more than five times the market price, lends strength to create a concept of horizontal growth where producer, processor, and marketer equally collaborate to bring these wines to consumers.