Las Veletas Pais Valle del Maule, 2018

País was once Chile’s most planted wine grape. Today that accolade goes to Cabernet Sauvignon. País was originally brought to America by Spanish conquistadores in the 16th century and spread throughout the continent — it is also known in Argentina as Criolla Grande and Mission in California. Recently there has been a surge in interest for old País vines in Maule. Las Veletas País is produced from vines planted in 1915 and revitalized by Raul Dell’Oro. The 2018 is translucent ruby in colour with aromas of freshly crushed redcurrants. This is a light bodied red with sour fruits and savoury flavours.