Wines Unspecified Perez Cruz - Piedra Seca - 2022

Perez Cruz’s Cuvée Piedra Seca 2022 is a red wine from the Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s most celebrated wine regions. While the precise blend of varieties in this cuvée isn't stated, Perez Cruz is renowned for its Bordeaux-inspired expressions, often working with Cabernet Sauvignon as a core grape, frequently complemented by other classic Bordeaux varieties. The ‘Piedra Seca’ designation, referring to “dry stone,” may hint at stony, well-drained soils which are prized for producing structured, complex reds. The 2022 vintage presents a typically expressive Maipo Valley style: likely to be rich in dark fruit, with vibrant acidity, ripe tannins, and subtle oak influence should it have seen barrel maturation.

Situated at the foot of the Andes, Maipo Valley benefits from a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny days and cool nights thanks to breezes descending from the mountains. This diurnal variation preserves freshness in the grapes while ensuring full ripeness, an essential factor for red wines that boast both power and elegance. Soils in this part of the valley range from gravelly alluviums to colluvial stones, lending mineral structure and refined tannins to the finished wine. The region has a long-standing tradition of red winemaking, dating back to the mid-19th century and continues as the heartland for Chile’s most iconic Cabernet-based wines.

In terms of food pairings, a wine of this profile partners beautifully with classic grilled or roast meats—think ribeye steak, lamb chops with rosemary, or duck breast with a berry reduction. For a regional touch, try it with Chilean pastel de choclo or a slow-cooked beef empanada. The wine’s structure and likely depth also mean it will stand up well to savoury hard cheeses or dishes featuring earthy mushrooms.

For serving, pour this wine at 16-18°C to enhance its aromatics and smooth the tannins. Consider decanting for up to an hour if drinking young, which will allow the wine to reveal its full complexity and charm.