VIK Wines is a true testament to the harmonious blend of art, architecture, luxury, and world-class wine making.
VIK is nestled amidst the breathtaking Andes foothills in Chile’s Millahue Valley. This area is aptly named “Lugar de Oro” or “Golden Place” by the native Mapuche people. Here, innovation and reverence for nature converge to create extraordinary wines. The visionary Chief Winemaker, Cristian Vallejo, is at the heart of this remarkable endeavor. His passion and pioneering spirit have elevated VIK to global acclaim.
Recently, on a warm, sunny afternoon in NYC, a select group, yours truly included, joined a private tasting with VIK Wines. This exclusive event provided an intimate look into their world. Cristian Vallejo himself guided the event. His warmth and generosity made the experience truly unforgettable.
VIK Wines was founded in 2006 by Norwegian entrepreneur Alexander Vik and his wife Carrie. It was born from an audacious goal: to craft one of the world’s best wines. Their extensive search for the perfect terroir led them to the Millahue Valley, a stunning 4,300-hectare estate within the Cachapoal Valley. This diverse landscape boasts 12 distinct valleys. Each one has its own microclimate and unique exposures. They are cooled by Pacific coastal breezes and winds from the high Andes. This creates a natural symphony of conditions providing unparalleled complexity for viticulture.
Recap Highlights of VIK Wines:
Learn more about Vik Wines at https://www.vikwine.com/en/
At the recent private tasting in NYC, guests experienced firsthand VIK’s innovative spirit through two remarkable wines. First, the Cabernet Nouveau proved to be a revelation. This wine was harvested early, cold macerated, and crafted with meticulous gentle care. This is an innovative approach to Cabernet Sauvignon light to medium body red. A unique Cabernet Sauvignon offering a different flavor profile, entirely. First, it opens up with a bouquet of fresh and ripe red fruit notes like strawberry and raspberry. These flavors were complemented by a subtle hint of tobacco leaf. Its round tannins and fresh acidity, at a remarkably low alcohol level, were simply captivating. The intriguing detail of natural wildflowers used in its process truly connects the drinker to the vineyards’ natural ecosystem.
Then, we journeyed into the cosmos with Stonevik. The Stonevik offered a truly profound journey. Learning about the unique influence of solar angles and star positions on the grape’s expression was genuinely mind-blowing. Stonevik is a premium wine. A super elegant red wine showcases a rich blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Moreover, the aroma is intriguing with chalk and dark fruits. On the palate, notes of dark berries, plum, and a hint of spice, all balanced by velvety tannins and a smooth finish .It truly makes one appreciate the intricate relationship between the vineyard and the universe, demonstrating how each sip can tell a story of its place and personality. This wine is aged in amphoras outdoors on a geologically energized point. This aging process further highlights VIK’s commitment to allowing nature to guide the winemaking process.
For many in the wine world, Cristian Vallejo is more than just a winemaker; he is an artist, a philosopher, and a true visionary. Cristian’s journey into winemaking began in 1996. After gaining invaluable experience at renowned Chilean wineries and international powerhouses like Château Margaux, he joined VIK in 2007. It is here that his unique winemaking philosophy has truly flourished.
My personal connection with VIK wines, and with Cristian himself, began in 2020 during the pandemic, a time when direct interactions were limited, yet connections proved more vital than ever. While a visit to the stunning Millahue Valley winery remains a dream yet to be fulfilled, I’ve had the pleasure of trying their wines and releases consistently since then. My ongoing conversations with Cristian have revealed a man who is incredibly kind, always offering insightful and engaging dialogue.
Moreover, in the recent private NYC tasting, Cristian’s presence as a host and speaker is as captivating as his wines. He treats everyone like family, creating an atmosphere of genuine connection and shared passion. He’s truly the person you want to know in the wine world. Vallejo is a remarkable connector who champions and refers other talented younger winemakers. This demonstrates his commitment to the broader industry. Despite his immense talent and groundbreaking work, he remains incredibly humble, embodying the spirit of a true artist.
Cristian describes wine making as “the only form of art where there are two composers: nature and the winemaker.” This profound respect for nature underpins his entire approach. He believes in utilizing only what the terroir offers, employing organic, biodynamic, and sustainable practices. His circular wine making approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural energy and vibration of the grapes to express themselves fully.
Cristian’s innovative spirit is truly inspiring. His “Barroir” concept involves working with local oak to toast barrels. The groundbreaking “Stone VIK” project ages wine in outdoor amphoras. These are just a few examples of his relentless pursuit of excellence. His dedication demonstrate his desire to push the boundaries of traditional winemaking. Stonevik showcases his fascination with cosmic influences on the vine. Hence, he believes it’s not just about blending varieties, but about blending personalities, energy, and community.
He speaks of his wines as “easy to read.” It’s like a book. “Every glass is a chapter,” he says. “Every sip is a page,” telling a story of passion and terroir. His attention to detail is meticulous, from night harvesting to precise vineyard management, all aimed at achieving the optimal expression of the Millahue Valley’s diverse microclimates.
I have the honor of calling Cristian Vallejo a friend. Moreover, he is such a humble mastermind. Driven by a deep ambition to create a lasting impact he genuinely wants to contribute to the wine world. Therefore, his wines are a reflection of his dedication: complex yet approachable, powerful yet elegant. Moreover, his wines are always telling a story of the unique place from which they come. For anyone seeking to experience the pinnacle of Chilean winemaking, a journey into the world of VIK Wines and the artistry of Cristian Vallejo is an absolute must.
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