The Devil is in Details : The wines of Concha Y Toro
For the discerning oenophile, the name Concha Y Toro is often spoken in revered tones. They’ve been a proud fixture at the SAQ, a tribute not just to the wine’s excellence but also to our sophisticated tastes and appreciation for fine wines.
Tracing back to 1883, Concha Y Toro’s legacy began with Melchor Concha Y Toro’s vision after he imported vines from Bordeaux. His dream? Crafting wines in Chile that rivaled the world’s finest.
Photo: Concha Y Toro
The journey of winemaking is paved with challenges and the devil is certainly in the details. Legend whispers that to protect his prized vintages and deter thieves, Don Melchor spun tales of a devil guarding his cellar’s treasures. This tale lives on in the esteemed Casillero del Diablo range.
Over the years, Concha Y Toro has become synonymous with dedication to quality. Expanding their vineyards across Chile’s diverse terroirs, they’ve explored the vast richness from the cool breezes of regions such as Casablanca and Leyda to the sun-kissed valleys of Maipo and Colchagua, offering a little piece of terroir for every palate. “Chile is special because we have protection from the elements on all sides,” comments export manager Jose Manuel Infante Echenique. “The vineyards are protected by the Atacama Desert to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Andes mountains to the east, and Patagonia in the south. This is what allows for quality and unique character in Chilean wine.”
In a world clamoring for sustainability and where “green” is more than just a trendy buzzword, Concha Y Toro stands at the forefront. Their commendable investments and strides in sustainable viticulture and winemaking have not only earned them numerous accolades, certifications, and awards, but also the respect of their peers.
Concha Y Toro is more than just a winery, it is a testament to passion, innovation, and dedication to producing wines with the highest quality possible. Their integrated approach, sourcing exclusively from their vineyards, underlines their commitment to quality and sustainability. They continue to redefine Chilean wine’s boundaries. To go on a little vin-venture, why not try the wines for yourself at La Grande Degustation de Montreal on the 19th, 20th, and 21st of October. In the meantime, here are my top recommendations from Concha Y Toro.
Photo: Concha Y Toro
Casillero del Diablo Cabernet-Sauvignon
SAQ : 278416 $13.95
An approachable cabernet with inviting notes of red and black fruits. Ripe blackberries and cherries mingle with plum and bits of herbs giving a little nod to the Chilean terroir. Juicy blackberry and cassis flavours with supple tannins and fresh acidity - creating an easy drinking experience. The finish is fresh and gentle – with notes of black fruit and spice. An excellent choice for those who seek a balance of value and quality – quite the crowd-pleasing wine.
Concha Y Toro Chardonnay 2021
SAQ: 114161141 $21.70
This is an ideal Chardonnay for Fall – a welcoming palate with notes of ripe pineapple, juicy mango, and citrus with hints of acacia blossoms. The plump palate has a wonderful balance of fruit and acidity – an attractive creaminess on the mid-palate imparted by the well-integrated oak. The creamy finish is lingering, and crisp – the perfect wine for a creamy butternut squash risotto.
Concha Y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Valle del Maipo 2020
SAQ: 10694253 $22.95
This wine is an ode to the terroir it comes from – offering notes of sun-soaked blackberries, black cherries with bits of earth and crushed gravel impressions. Dried herbs and cedar conjure up the image of the vineyard’s rugged mountainous terrain. Bold and structured, it has this captivating interplay of ripe fruit and firm yet silky tannins with a backbone of well-defined acidity. This is a wonderful example of how a Cabernet can be powerful yet elegant at the same time. The persistent finish is on black fruit, vanilla, and earth – a beautiful wine that will age for years to come.
Concha Y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Carmenere 2020
SAQ: 12882961 $24.20
If you have never tried Carmenere before, allow this to be your wine! This is a delightful wine with ripe blackberries and cherries with bits of plum and raspberry flavors. You do get subtle notes of green bell pepper – a unique and signature characteristic of Carmenere – along with a gentle hint of vanilla and sweet spice from the time on oak. Soft, velvety tannins make the wine accessible and enjoyable for all palates. This Chilean Carmenere expression is nothing but charming and would be brilliant with grilled lamb with chimichurri.