Region and Vineyards
The Seña vineyard lies in the Aconcagua Valley, a privileged location framed by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Andes mountains to the east. The valley benefits from maritime breezes that moderate temperatures and extend the ripening period, while the foothill soils, poor in nutrients, limit vigor and enhance grape concentration.
The 2016 season began with delayed winter rains that replenished soils and ensured balanced vine canopies. A cooler spring pushed budbreak and flowering back by nearly two weeks, contributing to even fruit set. Summer warmth aligned with historical averages, yet veraison arrived later, continuing the slow pace. Harvest took place mostly in April, with Malbec picked earlier in late March and Carmenere harvested at the end of April. The result was fruit of outstanding aromatic precision, bright acidity, and fine-grained tannins that highlight the finesse of this vintage.
Winemaking
Seña 2016 is an intricate blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Carmenere, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Each grape variety was vinified separately to preserve its typicity before the final blend was crafted for depth and harmony.
The wine matured for 22 months, with 88% aged in French oak barrels (73% new) to lend structure, spice, and silkiness, and 12% in large foudres to maintain fruit purity. This judicious élevage delivers a balance between aromatic elegance, structural finesse, and long ageing potential.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep ruby red with youthful violet glimmers.
- Aroma: Expressive nose of blueberries, cherries, and violets, framed by subtle notes of nuts, fine pastry, and a lingering touch of truffle, lending sophistication.
- Palate: Fresh, juicy, and full of life, with delicate hints of rose petals. Fine-grained tannins, both firm and silky, support bright acidity, creating a wine of elegance and remarkable ageing capacity.
Did you know?
Seña was created in 1995 as Chile's first "icon wine", the result of a groundbreaking partnership between Eduardo Chadwick and Robert Mondavi. Their vision was to prove that Chile could rival the world's greatest wines, and today Seña stands among the country's most celebrated fine wines, firmly established on La Place de Bordeaux alongside First Growths and iconic global labels.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Rack of lamb with thyme and garlic: The wine's herbal notes and refined tannins enhance lamb's succulence.
- Duck confit with cherry glaze: Dark fruit and bright acidity echo the dish's sweet-savory balance.
- Beef Wellington: The truffle nuance and pastry tones in the wine resonate beautifully with this classic preparation.
- Aged Comté or Gruyère: Nutty, complex cheeses mirror the wine's depth and structure.
