Sideral Cachapoal Valley DO

Cachapoal Valley, Chile

Second wine of Altair; Carmenère-dominated blend with Cabernet Sauvignon. More approachable in youth than the flagship; red cherry, plum, dark olive, and tobacco with smooth Andean-influenced tannins. 12 months in French oak (30% new). Best introduction to Cachapoal's Carmenère character.

Pairing intelligence

• main: Regional pairing; Sideral's Carmenère character and medium body complement Chile's hearty national stew
• starter: Classic Chilean empanadas with Carmenère; the green olive filling echoes Carmenère's characteristic note perfectly
• fish course: Carmenère's softer tannins and red fruit work surprisingly well with rich salmon; olive notes bridge the caper