The Elqui Valley is the most Northerly of the Chilean wine regions, famous mostly for its wonderfully clear skies and a resulting proliferation of observatories and star gazers. Basking in semi-arid terrain to the east of the city of La Serena, the vines are photogenic, tempered somewhat by the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean . Here Syrah has found its homestead, and here Alvaro Espinoza has grappled successfully with this famously temperamental varietal. " The Elqui Valley is fast building a reputation as the place in to grow Syrah. With its semi-arid terrrain, tempered by the cooling Pacific Ocean , and wonderfully clear atmosphere (several observatories are located here), this has proved an ideal spot for Alvaro Espinoza to demonstrate his skills with this famously temperamental variety. Very low yields generate highly concentrated fruit, while maceration is gentle to avoid over-extraction. A deep Syrah colour, then a friendly nose of spice, black fruit and hints of macerated prune; the palate is beautifully soft with red and black fruit flavours and finely wrought tannins"(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer) Caroline's notes: " Nose of medium intensity - appealing cherry fruit with a touch of black pepper and other subtle spices. Vetryu pleasant on palate with perfect balance of fruit, tannin and acidity. A good drinking wine from now until 2012."