The visit to the Matetic Vineyards in the countryside neighboring Casablanca, Chile, was truly special. Approximately 400 acres of heavenly grape that creates among the finest wine in the world. The view from the top of the hill is breathtaking. Rolling hills of grape plantations, as far as the eyes could see, all around the production epicenter.
The vineyard is owned by a family from Croatia, has been in the family for generations, and they employ the local people to harvest the grape. Approximately 30 percent of the harvest is sold for production to other companies. That is their bread and butter, and their cash-cow. The balance of the grape at this boutique vineyard produces only 34,000 cases of wine that is distributed for the high-end wine market. They could produce more wine, but commitment to quality resulted in self imposed capacity limits. They use only the finest grapes, quality controlled for size and flavor. I love this focus on wanting to be the best.
The grape for the white wines — Sauvignon Blanc — is gently massaged by hand to maintain its fruity, light integrity. The whites are barely aged for 30 days. They recommend that the whites be consumed while still young and tangy. The reds are machine pressed with a focus on color and body. Stored in oak barrels custom ordered from France, the reds are aged 18 to 24 months, in a humidity controlled cellar that allows the wine to mature.
The wine tasting was a real treat. I prefer the reds, and the bouquet was soothing yet boldly confident. I fantasized about building a small home in the midst of these rolling hills and enjoying the natural beauty of the setting and the fruit of the grape.
We should all be allowed to dream — and escape — even if it is only for a few hours.
About Hemant Rustogi