Alcohuaz RHU (Syrah Blend) 2018

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Alcohuaz
Label Name:
 
RHU (Syrah Blend)
Vintage:
 
2018
Country:
 
Chile
Region:
 
Elqui Valley (high‑altitude Andes vineyards)
Volume:
 
1500ml
ABV:
 
13%
Grape(s):
 
Syrah 80%, Petite Sirah 12%, Garnacha 8%.
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
3
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
Decanter 97 pts (Jan 2023), James Suckling 96 pts (Mar 2024), Wine Advocate 95 pts (Aug 2021). widely praised for elegance and longevity

Tasting Note
Fresh, elegant Syrah-driven red: wild blueberry, black pepper, floral herbs, smoked meat and dark granite minerality. Tangy acidity, fine tannins and a long, saline finish.

Food Pairing
Western: roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, game birds, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses. Asian: Korean BBQ (bulgogi), Sichuan pepper beef, char siu pork, yakitori, spicy ramen. Pairs well with umami and grilled/smoked flavors.

Production Method
Spontaneous (native) fermentation in stone lagares with ~90% whole clusters; aged 32 months in 2,500‑L oak foudres. Minimal intervention, indigenous yeasts.

Vineyard Info
Viñedos de Alcohuaz is a high‑altitude (1,650–2,206 m) estate in Chile's Elqui Valley producing mountain wines; RHU launched in 2011 as the estate's flagship. Focus on granite soils and altitude‑driven expression.