Sena 2016

Seña, situated in the heart of the Aconcagua Valley in Chile, is a beacon of excellence in South American winemaking. Founded as a collaborative venture between two renowned figures in the wine world, Eduardo Chadwick of Chile and the late Robert Mondavi of California, Seña has become a benchmark for quality and innovation in the Chilean wine landscape.

Established in 1995, Seña was a groundbreaking project from its inception. The founders aimed to create a wine that would transcend borders, showcasing the unique terroir of the Aconcagua Valley while incorporating the expertise and traditions of both Chilean and Californian winemaking. This dedication to excellence and cross-cultural collaboration has positioned Seña as a leading icon in the world of New World wines.

The estate's vineyards are meticulously tended, benefiting from the diverse microclimates and soils of the Aconcagua Valley. Seña is celebrated for its Bordeaux-style blends, typically dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon but also featuring other classic varietals, creating wines of depth, structure, and complexity.

Seña Winery is not merely a producer of exceptional wines; it is a testament to the potential of Chilean terroir and the vision of its founders. Visitors to Seña are treated not only to exquisite tastings but also to an exploration of the estate's commitment to sustainable and organic practices, reflecting a harmonious balance between tradition and modernity in the pursuit of winemaking excellence.

"The truly excellent 2016 Seña could very well be the finest wine produced at this estate that started as a joint venture between Robert Mondavi and Eduardo Chadwick and now continues under the guidance of Chadwick and the excellent hand of winemaker Francisco "Pancho" Baettig. The grapes were picked later in 2016, and the final blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Carmenere and 5% Cabernet Franc, with more Malbec and considerably less Carmenere than in the past. This is "only" 13.5% alcohol and has remarkable acidity and freshness, as well as overall balance and elegance that surpasses all previous vintages. Twelve percent of the volume matured in oak foudres, while the rest was aged in barrique (73% new) for 22 months. Even so, the wine is not oaky and comes through as harmonious and elegant within the house style. It's serious, dry and elegant, with zero concessions to sweetness. A mineral and profound red blend. 72,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in February 2018." - Luis Gutiérrez, The Wine Advocate (10/31/2018), Ratings: 97, Drink: 2018-2028