Handford Wines

The most prominent organic and biodynamic estate in Chile. The vineyards are planted in three of the country's vicultural valleys; Maipo, Colchagua and Casablanca. The winemaker at VOE is the remarkably talented Alvaro Espinoza. Having studied oenology at both the universities of Santaigo and Bordeaux, he worked at Chateau Margaux in Bordeaux and California's Bonterra vineyards before returning home to Chile. Fully commited to both organic and biodynamic viticulture, he has adopted a fully biodynamic approach to the VOE project including growing acacia trees around the vineyard to draw nitrogen from the atmosphere and the soil, and using plants in the vineyard to make homeopathic treatments which are subsequently used on the vines. The winery is made from Adobe wood, copper and stone which are natural resources found widely throughout Chile.

The Wine

Simply the best bottle of Chilean red I have yet tasted. Real complexity here with mocha chocolate, spice and harmonious use of oak. While still young this blend of Merlot, Carmeniere, Syrah and Mouvedre opens up with decanting and gives real wow factor. Perhaps if more people used Biodynamic farming methods we would have more wines like this! 2006 - "A blend of 6 grapes showing a deep black cherry colour, fresh, spicy black fruits, crunchy and fresh, youthful and lifted on the finish, brilliant winemaking. 4/5 stars" Steven Spurrier, Decanter, October 2008

Single Bottle: £16.99

In a case of 12: £16.14