2024 Almaviva EPU

the origins of Almaviva's EPU

Founded in 1997 by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild and Don Eduardo Guilisasti Tagle, the Almaviva winery set a new standard in Chile with its first wine. Alongside the iconic Almaviva, EPU , its smaller sibling, shared the same vineyards, grapes, and philosophy, was later born. The name EPU means "two" in the Mapuche language and symbolizes both Almaviva's second wine and the harmony between French tradition and Chilean nature. While Almaviva is considered a Grande Cuvée for the cellar, EPU offers a more accessible, fruity style without sacrificing complexity.

the terroir of Puente Alto

EPU is made from grapes grown in the same prestigious vineyards as Almaviva, in Puente Alto, nestled at the foot of the Andes in the Maipo Valley. Here, stony soils with perfect drainage and a dry, sunny climate create optimal conditions. Cool nights temper the heat of the day, allowing the grapes to retain their freshness. This combination of ripeness and tension forms the basis for wines with elegance, balance, and ageing potential.

grape varieties and blending of EPU 2023

The 2023 EPU is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Carménère, 3% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon delivers power, structure, and dark fruit notes. Carménère adds softness and spicy finesse. Merlot provides roundness and juiciness, while Cabernet Franc gives the blend an elegant lift and floral notes. The result is a wine quintessentially Puente Alto: full-bodied, balanced, and harmonious.

climate and harvest of the year 2023

The 2023 growing season was characterized by extremes. The winter brought only 119 mm of rain, over 40% less than average, but still more than the previous dry year. After a moderate start, the spring was warm and dry, with irregular flowering and fruit set. The summer was exceptionally hot, with March being the hottest on record in Chile. To maintain freshness, harvesting was necessary early. The first Merlot was picked on March 9th, Cabernet Sauvignon from March 13th, and the harvest in Puente Alto concluded on April 24th. The Carménère from Peumo was then harvested between April 25th and May 5th. Despite the challenges, this year produced grapes with excellent ripeness, tension, and fruit intensity.

vinification and maturation

EPU 2023 underwent fermentation in stainless steel and was then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, only 10% of which were new. This allows the wine to retain a distinctly fruity character, combined with subtle oak notes that add elegance and complexity. This shorter aging compared to Almaviva emphasizes the more accessible, juicy profile of EPU.

color, aroma and taste profile of the 2023 EPU

The 2023 EPU presents itself with a brilliant ruby red color. The bouquet opens with cassis and red berries, before subtle notes of vanilla, earth, and fine spices emerge. On the palate, the wine is full and rounded, with a juicy attack and a silky texture. The tannins are remarkably supple, creating an elegant structure. The finish is harmonious and long, with lingering impressions of licorice and ripe strawberries. This makes the wine both seductive and refined, a perfect introduction to the world of Almaviva.

Would you like to order Almaviva wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings with the 2023 EPU

• Grilled sirloin steak with rosemary butter – the succulent meat and herb blend enhance the fruity intensity and supple tannins.
• Oven-baked leg of lamb with thyme and garlic – the rich meaty flavours pair seamlessly with the spicy notes of Carménère and the texture of Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Pasta with wild boar ragù – the hearty character of the dish complements the depth and fruitiness of the wine perfectly.
• Mushroom and Parmesan Risotto – the creamy texture and earthy flavours accentuate the roundness and finesse of EPU.
• Grilled peppers and eggplant with pecorino – the savory and roasted notes enhance the elegant fruit and soft herbs.
• Veal tenderloin with truffle jus – a refined pairing in which the wine harmoniously complements the rich, earthy notes of the dish.