On World Cabernet Sauvignon Day, we celebrate this iconic grape variety, which has found an extraordinary expression in Chile — especially in the Puente Alto Appellation — thanks to its unique climate and geography.

Today, the wine world commemorates one of the most renowned and widely consumed red grape varieties globally. Originally from Bordeaux, France, Cabernet Sauvignon has transcended borders, becoming a true symbol of elegance and winemaking excellence. 

Puente Alto: An Exceptional Origin for Cabernet Sauvignon 

In this context of international recognition, Chile stands out as an undisputed origin of world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. In particular, the Puente Alto Appellation has been widely recognized as the birthplace of some of the finest wines made from this variety. 

“The style, complexity, and finesse of Don Melchor are born from the balance between the stony soil of Puente Alto, the cool Andean breeze, the exceptional climate of Alto Maipo, the maturity of the vines, and the meticulous work in the vineyard,” explains Enrique Tirado, CEO and Technical Director of Viña Don Melchor. 

Today, this terroir stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s great wine appellations, such as Pauillac, Saint-Émilion, and Margaux — all part of one of the most prestigious regions in France. This is echoed by renowned British wine critic Jancis Robinson MW: “Wine regions like Pirque, near Santiago, are particularly good for growing Cabernet, thanks to the gravel deposits from the Maipo River, cooling breezes, and the proximity to the Andes. Puente Alto, nestled between the expanding suburbs and the mountains, is the Pauillac of Chile” (Jancis Robinson, Chile – now a fine‑wine producer, March 15, 2025). 

Don Melchor: A Global standard in Cabernet Sauvignon 

From this terroir comes Don Melchor, an undisputed benchmark among the world’s finest high-end Cabernet Sauvignon. With over 36 vintages, this Puente Alto icon has elevated the variety to the highest levels of the wine industry. 

A testament to its legacy is that, with its second vintage — 1988 — Don Melchor became the first Chilean wine to be included in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of the Year. Years later, with its 2021 vintage, it achieved the highest honor by being named #1 in this prestigious ranking, consolidating its international reputation and highlighting Chile — and particularly Puente Alto’s terroir — among the world’s wine elite. This achievement positions it as one of the most awarded and recognized Cabernet Sauvignons globally. 

Discover the Don Melchor icon here.