Matetic
Corralillo
Merlot/Malbec
2005
14.5%
Chile
Had this kicking around the cellar for the last half a decade and for no good reason other than a bit thirsty decided to crack it open. This one was from 2005 when it used to be imported by Oddbins, when I used to work there, back then. Obvs that's a bit of time ago and even I can't remember the complete percentages. However, you can pick up the Winemakers blend which I believe replaced this bottle.
The 2006 is 67% Merlot, 17% Cab Franc, 10% Merlot and 6% Pinot Noir.
The 2009 is 40% Merlot, 28% Syrah, 20% Cab Franc, 12% Malbec.
I just got that off the internet - you can grab the Winemakers Blend in Majestic these days.
Now I'm pretty sure this vintage ain't any of them combos but it is a beaut. There's a wonderful depth to it as it's opened up over the evening. The balance is sublime. Full bodied and rather rich with lashings of deep dark chocolate, morello cherry and berry fruit, a subtle lick of vanilla and warm integrated spice that all arrives in a very orderly fashion. Like the best guests at a house party. The Malbec adding the floral notes, the Merlot giving it the fruity edge. The finish is long and drying and the tannins are firm but friendly. It's very soft but the structure is tip top. I seem to remember that this was a biodynamic/organic winery if memory serves.
The cellaring seems to have improved the integration of the elements - it is a long time ago back before I ever bothered with tasting notes but I vaguely remember the Malbec being more dominant and the overall vibe being a bit youthful and stalky. However, that may just have been a memory of another Matetic offering - so that's a completely reliable assessment! Whatever, this is a very lovely wine, with such a smooth and more-ish finish. I'm going to have to snap up a bottle of the Winemakers blend and see how that compares.
