Seña (1997)
SommeliAI Insights
A refined Chilean red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère, offering a harmonious balance of fruit and spice.
About this wine
The 1997 Seña from Chile's Aconcagua Valley is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Carmenère, showcasing a deep ruby-red color. On the nose, it presents aromas of herbs, earth, and a hint of green bell pepper, complemented by violet and cassis notes. The palate is smooth and ripe, with flavors of baked black cherries, strawberry, orange peel, and dried tobacco, reflecting the warmer vintage conditions. Aged for 16 months in 43% new French oak barrels, the wine exhibits a crisp acidic bite on the finish, offering good lift and lively acidity. This vintage, crafted by Eduardo Chadwick and Tim Mondavi, highlights the presence of Carmenère, adding complexity and depth to the wine.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape known for its thick skins and resilience, has been a cornerstone in Chilean winemaking, particularly in the Aconcagua Valley. Its adaptability to various climates and soils has made it a dominant varietal in the region. Carménère, originally from Bordeaux, was thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in Chile in the 1990s, where it had been mistaken for Merlot. This grape thrives in Chile's climate, contributing unique spicy and earthy notes to blends. In the 1997 Viña Seña Seña, these two varietals were combined to showcase the potential of Chilean terroir, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure and aging potential, while Carménère added distinctive flavors and complexity.
Quick facts
- 🤝 Seña 1997 was a collaborative creation between Chilean vintner Eduardo Chadwick and American winemaker Robert Mondavi, aiming to showcase Chile's potential in producing world-class wines.
- 🍇 The 1997 vintage is composed of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Carmenère, blending Bordeaux tradition with Chilean terroir.
- 🛢️ This wine underwent 16 months of aging in French oak barrels, 43% of which were new, imparting complexity and depth.
- 🌄 The Aconcagua Valley, where Seña is produced, benefits from a Mediterranean climate and diverse soils, contributing to the wine's unique character.
- 🏆 Seña 1997 received a 91-point rating from Wine Spectator, highlighting its elegance and sophistication.
Palate profile
Producer
Valley to the Sea Winery, established in 2019, is located in Santa Barbara, California, USA. The winery's tasting room opened in November 2021 within the Santa Barbara Public Market, offering visitors a selection of wines crafted from grapes sourced across the Santa Ynez Valley. The winemaker, Jamie Savellano, brings over a decade of experience from renowned local wineries such as Crown Point, Beckmen, Samsara, and Alexander and Wayne. The winery emphasizes local styles that highlight rich, ripe fruit characters and balanced complexities, reflecting the unique geography and community of the region.
