Wine: Vina Chocalan Malbec

Country: Chile

Region: Maipo Valley

Designation: Maipo Valley

Producer: Chocalan

Grape Varietal: 100% Malbec

ABV: 14%

Type: Red

Code: 2553

Tasting Note

A bouquet of violets, black cherries and berries, currants, spices and violets leads on to a concentrated palate of blackberry and plummy fruit with soft, supple tannins. The finish is fresh and long. The character of this Malbec is, unusually for Chile, reminiscent of high-altitude Mendoza examples from Argentina.

Producer

In 1998, the Toro Harnecker family , iconic producers of glass bottles for the wine industry in Chile, decided to realize the dream of using their bottles to package their own wine. The winery was founded by Guillermo Toro in Chile’s Maipo Valley. The company’s 340 hectare estate is still run by the Toro family, headed by Aida Toro Harnecker.

Chocalan focuses on crafting terroir-driven wines that express the unique character of the Maipo Valley.

They source grapes from their own coastal vineyards, nestled near the Pacific Ocean, benefiting from cool sea breezes and sunny days. Their winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to speak for themselves. 

Chocalan is committed to sustainable practices, implementing organic and biodynamic methods in their vineyards. They actively engage with the local community, supporting cultural events and promoting responsible wine tourism.

Winemaking

The Maipo Valley is located in a stretch of pristine land wedged between the Andes and Coastal mountain ranges in central Chile , close to the Maipo river and 35km from the Pacific Ocean. Cool evening breezes provide a high diurnal temperature difference that retains freshness in the estate’s wines. Chocalan’s vineyards are certified sustainable and managed by winemaker Fernando Espina.

Of the 115 hectares that Chocalán has growing in the Melipilla zone of coastal Maipo, about three are Malbec, and this Vitrum Malbec is a selection from that vineyard. After the hand picked harvest, temperature controlled fermentation takes place in stainless steel. Ageing takes place in French oak (first and second use barrels) for up to 14 months.

Fun Fact

Many consumers ask for “the chocolate wine” but the name Chocalan has nothing to do with cacao. The name "Chocalan" comes from the Mapuche language, meaning "yellow flowers," referencing the delicate blossoms found in the Maipo Valley and among the vines in the family’s vineyards.

Food pairing

Ideal to accompany any type of meat, especially rich dishes based on lamb and duck. 

Awards & Accolades

Vivino 4.1

91 points James Suckling

92 points Descorchados

“exuberant in flavours of blue fruits, violets, and fruit liqueur. The palate is guided by acidity that crunches while the fruity flavours bubble. A wine that's succulent yet fresh”