Grape: Syrah
Alcohol: 14.9% abv
Type: Dry Red
Vintage: 2022
Format: 75cl
Sub-Region: D.O. Valle de Casablanca
Region: Valle de Aconcagua
Country: Chile
Tanagra Syrah
The Tanagra Syrah is the Icon wine of Villard Fine Wines, produced in limited quantities from carefully selected vineyard parcels. The wine reflects the cool coastal climate of the Casablanca Valley, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean, morning fog, and cooling breezes allow Syrah grapes to ripen slowly. These conditions help develop complex aromas while maintaining freshness and balance.
In appearance, the wine shows a deep ruby dark purple color, indicating its concentration and intensity. On the nose, Tanagra Syrah presents rich aromas of dark fruits such as blackberry, black cherry, and plum. These fruit notes are complemented by classic Syrah characteristics including black pepper, spice, and subtle smoky and earthy tones, along with hints of chocolate, coffee and vanilla from aging in oak for 20 months.
On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well structured, with ripe fruit flavors supported by firm yet polished tannins. Layers of dark berries, spice, and light oak create depth and complexity, while the balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh and elegant. The finish is long, powerful, and slightly spicy, making Tanagra Syrah a sophisticated and expressive example of premium Syrah from the Casablanca Valley.
Region
The Casablanca Valley is one of Chile’s most important cool-climate wine regions, located about 75 km northwest of Santiago between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. Its climate is strongly influenced by the nearby ocean, which gives the valley a cool Mediterranean climate with pronounced maritime influence. Cool air from the Pacific, particularly from the cold Humboldt Current, brings morning fog and afternoon breezes into the valley, moderating temperatures and preventing excessive heat during the growing season. This cooling effect allows grapes to ripen slowly, preserving acidity and developing fresh, aromatic flavors.
Climate & Terroir
One of the key climatic features of Casablanca Valley is the presence of morning fog and frequent cloud cover, which extend the growing season and protect the grapes from intense sunlight. Despite being located relatively close to the equator compared with many European wine regions, these maritime influences create conditions suitable for producing cool-climate wines. The valley also experiences noticeable day-night temperature differences, which help grapes maintain balance between sugar development and acidity. As a result, the region is particularly known for varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, which thrive in cooler environments.
The terroir of Casablanca Valley is shaped by its coastal location, rolling hills, and diverse soils. Many vineyards are planted on sandy, clay, or granitic soils, which are generally well drained and moderately fertile. These soils encourage vines to develop deeper root systems and help control vine vigor, leading to smaller berries with concentrated flavors. The valley’s gently sloping hillsides also allow good sun exposure while still benefiting from cooling ocean winds.
Overall, the combination of cool maritime climate, morning fog, moderate temperatures, and well-drained soils makes Casablanca Valley one of Chile’s most distinctive wine terroirs. These conditions produce wines that are typically fresh, aromatic, and balanced, with vibrant acidity and refined fruit flavors. Because of this unique terroir, the valley has become internationally recognized as a leading region for cool-climate white wines and elegant Pinot Noir.
Ideal drinking temperature 16° Celsius.
