Idahue Estate, Cabernet Franc, Licanten, Curicó Valley, Chile, 2017

Predominantly Cabernet Franc, with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, this accomplished red blend comes from Licanten, a new Chilean DO just 25km from the Pacific in the Curico region. The owners of the estate started searching for a new terroir a decade ago, concerned about climate change, so that they would be able to continue to produce wines of elegance. This is where they ended up. There's a lovely perfume here, blackcurrant and violet, with fresh, earthy notes, some spice and a hint of leafiness. Elegant indeed, and terroir-driven.