Casa Real Unveils 2022 Vintage with a Legacy of Excellence
With much anticipation, Casa Real, the renowned Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, has unveiled its 2022 vintage, commemorating thirty remarkable years of winemaking excellence. This flagship wine from Viña Santa Rita continues to exemplify the pinnacle of quality, produced exclusively during exceptional years. The release showcases the brand's commitment to crafting wines that reflect both the season and the terroir.
A Celebration of History and Quality
The introduction of the 2022 vintage is not just a new release; it marks the milestone of thirty vintages since its first harvest in 1989. Every bottle encapsulates the journey and story of consistency, identity, and an ever-growing global recognition for Casa Real, celebrated for being one of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons from Alto Jahuel and beyond.
"The release of this vintage allows us to reflect on our journey and the commitment we have had towards maintaining the distinctive style and authenticity of Casa Real," shares Baltazar Sánchez, the Chairman at Viña Santa Rita. "The Casa Real 2022 opens new avenues for exploring the evolution of Cabernet Sauvignon and highlighting our rich tradition in winemaking."
A Pioneer of South American Wine Culture
Casa Real has firmly established itself as an iconic benchmark among South America’s premier wines. Since its inception, it has remained the sole Chilean icon wine composed exclusively of Cabernet Sauvignon, offering the pure expression of this noble grape variety. Its essence is derived from a historic vineyard in Alto Jahuel, nurtured by ungrafted vines planted in the 1970s and 1980s. This meticulous selection process ensures exceptional fruit quality, reflecting the diverse terroir of Chile’s wine region.
The Influence of Terroir on the 2022 Vintage
The 2022 vintage is characterized by an unusually cool climate in Alto Jahuel, which significantly benefited the grapes, allowing for precise ripening over an extended period. This slow maturation has resulted in a wine boasting exceptional concentration, silky tannins, and vibrant acidity.
Sebastián Labbé, the winemaker behind Casa Real, states, "Casa Real 2022 is a harmonious blend of concentration and elegance. It reveals a deep ruby color and alluring aromas of blackcurrant, ripe cherries, and a hint of tobacco, complemented by subtle spice notes. The palate showcases its complexity and structure through refined tannins that promise an impressive finish while emphasizing fruit purity and balance. This vintage is poised for considerable aging, reflecting the very best of Alto Jahuel's identity."
Accolades and Recognition
The 2022 release has garnered significant acclaim from industry critics. Tim Atkin awarded it an impressive 97 points, recognizing it as one of his top wines of the year. Vinous echoed this sentiment, also awarding 97 points, while wine expert James Suckling rated it highly at 96 points, commending its sophistication and complexity. Wine Enthusiast distinguished Casa Real with 95 points, labeling it an Editor's Choice. Additionally, Descorchados 2025 recognized it with a stellar 98 points, describing it as one of the finest representations of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon.
Continuing the Legacy of Excellence
Looking ahead, Casa Real is dedicated to further exploring its unique terroir, aiming to refine its expressions in future vintages. Each production allows for a renewed interpretation of its origins, striving for clarity in every bottle while adhering to its core values of authenticity and quality.
About Casa Real and Viña Santa Rita:
Casa Real stands at the forefront of Viña Santa Rita's legacy, recognized as one of Chile's most esteemed Cabernet Sauvignons. Produced selectively in remarkable years since 1989, Casa Real is sourced from a historic 20-hectare vineyard situated in Alto Jahuel, in the heart of the Maipo Valley. The wine's purity and consistence have established it internationally, receiving accolades as the first Latin American wine to be declared a "Wine Legend" by leading wine publication Decanter.
Founded in 1880, Viña Santa Rita has emerged as one of Chile's prominent wineries, celebrated for its heritage and dedication to excellence. With Casa Real as its flagship, the winery continues to showcase the distinct terroirs of Chile while elevating the country’s standing in the world of fine wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Casa Real's 2022 vintage known for?
The Casa Real 2022 vintage is celebrated for its exceptional concentration, elegance, and balance, backed by numerous high scores from wine critics.
How long has Casa Real been producing wine?
Casa Real has been producing wine since 1989, marking over thirty years of legacy in winemaking.
What awards has the 2022 vintage received?
The 2022 vintage has received multiple accolades, including 97 points from Tim Atkin, and has been recognized by several prestigious wine publications.
Where is the vineyard located?
The vineyard is situated in Alto Jahuel, Maipo Valley, Chile, known for its ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon.
What distinguishes Casa Real from other wines?
Casa Real is unique because it is the only Chilean icon wine made exclusively from Cabernet Sauvignon, emphasizing its commitment to producing high-quality wine.
