The 2008 Almaviva was the first wine made after Michel Friou took over the winery. A Bordeaux-style red combining Cabernet Sauvignon with 26% Carménère and 8% Cabernet Franc from Puente Alto, Maipo, harvested in a cold, dry year according to Friou, it spent 19 months in French oak, two-thirds new. Deep pomegranate red in the glass. The lovely, delicate nose delivers dry figs and dates, menthol and an evolving layer of sweet spices. A ripe red that develops a concentrated liqueur-ish, slightly dry feel. The original structure has achieved a new sense of balance that lingers in the mouth. (JH)

Broad and muscular, boasting lots of dark currant and fig paste notes laced with loam, licorice snap and espresso flavors. The dense, fleshy finish lets a hint of roasted sage smolder. Very solid for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Cabernet Franc. (JM)

The 2008 Almaviva, a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Carmenere and 8% Cabernet Franc aged in new French oak for 18 months, has a Bordeaux-like bouquet with crisp blackberry, graphite and mint aromas that are well defined. The palate has a smooth, supple entry and is more rounded and harmonious than the 2009, with a pure, pastille-like finish that perhaps does not possess the complexity or “meatiness” of the succeeding vintage. Nevertheless, this is a fine Almaviva. (NM)