Wines Unspecified Emiliana - Novas Stellae Selection - 2020

The Emiliana Novas Stellae Selection 2020 from Chile’s Maule Valley represents the country’s movement towards premium, organic, and environmentally conscious winemaking. As a red wine, it is crafted with biodynamic principles, typical of the Emiliana estate, which is renowned as one of Chile’s leading organic producers. Although the precise varietal blend is not specified, wines bearing the “Novas Stellae” label often bring together classic Bordeaux or Mediterranean grape varieties, favouring a style that is fruit-forward, expressive, and balanced, with a clear emphasis on purity and minimal intervention during vinification. The 2020 vintage benefited from relatively stable growing conditions, allowing for optimal ripeness and concentration in the grapes, resulting in a wine likely to offer ripe red and black fruit aromas, subtle spice, and a gentle structure.

Maule Valley is the oldest wine region in Chile and boasts a rich winemaking heritage. Its climate is Mediterranean with warm, dry summers and mild winters, while Pacific Ocean influences moderate the temperature, supporting healthy vine growth and long maturation periods. The region’s diverse soils—ranging from alluvial clays to granitic hillsides—lend depth and character to the wines. Historically a source for robust and hearty reds, Maule Valley is now at the forefront of Chile’s revival of old vines and artisanal approaches, combining tradition with innovation, particularly through organic and sustainable viticulture.

This wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Its likely vibrant fruit and gentle tannins make it versatile with grilled red meats, such as Chilean-style beef (asado) or lamb chops with local herbs. It would also complement earthy vegetable stews or roast root vegetables, as well as hard cheeses like Manchego. For a regional touch, try pairing it with pastel de choclo, a traditional Chilean corn and beef pie, or empanadas.

For the best experience, serve this wine at 16-18°C, ideally after allowing it to breathe for a short while to let its full aromatic complexity reveal itself. This is the ideal temperature for enjoying the freshness and structure of organic reds from the Maule Valley.