Viña Morandé secured two spots in James Suckling’s TOP 100 Wines of Chile, released Thursday (11). El Cabernet de Ránquil 2021 ranked 8th with 98 points and was highlighted by critics as the best Cabernet Sauvignon on the list. Casatinta 2021, a blend of Malbec, Syrah and Cabernet Franc, came in 29th with 96 points.

Produced from 130-year-old vines in the Itata Valley, El Cabernet de Ránquil was praised for its mineral and chalky profile, precise tannins, and naturally concentrated fruit. According to editor Zekun Shuai, it stands out from more conventional Chilean offerings and can be enjoyed now or cellared for further aging.

The Casatinta, from the Casablanca Valley, impressed with its depth and minerality. “[…] aromas of minerals, fresh blackberries, blueberries and hints of crushed lavender and mussel shells. Juicy and textured, with a medium body and superfine, mineral-etched tannins coming from the crunchy skins. Linear, with excellent acidity and length. Drink or hold,” Shuai noted.

Additional recognitions

Beyond the two wines in the TOP 100, Viña Morandé received strong scores for eight other labels evaluated by James Suckling’s team. Highlights include House of Morandé 2022 and Black Series Pinot Noir 2024, both rated 95 points; Black Series Chardonnay 2023, Golden Harvest 2013, and Tirazis 2022 with 94 points; and Vitis Única Chardonnay 2023, Terroir Wines Cinsault País 2024, and Vitis Única Pinot Noir 2023, each earning 92 points.

The results validate the work of Viña Morandé’s winemaking team, reaffirm the winery’s commitment to Chilean viticulture, and reinforce its position as one of the country’s benchmark producers.