Payen 2018 Tabalí
Syrah Icon | Limarí Valley
"The ultimate expression of Chilean Syrah: a red wine with a profound soul and infinite elegance, sculpted by the fresh wind and the stony soils of Limarí."
The Summit of Limarí
Payen is the liquid testimony to the potential of the Limarí Valley. This iconic Syrah is born from a surgical selection of the best blocks of the winery, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean and the alluvial soils rich in calcium carbonate forge a mineral and fresh character. With 18 months of aging in French oak, it is a wine that balances imposing power with a sophistication that places it among the great red wines of the world.
1. Identity Profile
- Winery: Viña Tabalí
- Origin: Limarí Valley, Coquimbo, Chile.
- Varietal: 100% cool-climate Syrah.
- Aging: 18 months in fine-grained French oak barrels.
- Terroir: Stony alluvial soils with a calcareous matrix.
- Volume: 750 ml
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Deep purplish-red color, clear, and strikingly intense visually.
Nose: Complex and layered bouquet. Notes of wild black fruits, violets, and black pepper emerge, followed by mineral nuances and an aristocratic hint of fine tobacco.
Palate: Voluptuous and dense entry. It stands out for its velvety tannins and vibrant acidity that provides freshness and verticality. The finish is eternal, leaving an elegant and spicy memory.
3. Pairing and Recommendations
Cuisine: An ideal companion for dishes with character such as Magellanic lamb on a spit, venison in red fruit reduction, or braised wild boar.
Service: We recommend decanting for 45 minutes and serving between 16°C and 18°C.
Potential: A cellar jewel with guaranteed positive evolution for the next 15 to 20 years.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Payen considered a "cool-climate Syrah"?
Due to the vineyard's proximity to the sea, the Pacific breezes moderate temperatures, allowing for slow ripening that preserves acidity and floral aromas, differentiating it from warm-climate Syrahs.
What accolades has this label received?
Payen is consistently rated +96 points by critics such as Guía Descorchados and Tim Atkin, consolidating its position as one of Chile's best red wines.