Awarded 96 points, the high-end wine from Viña Santa Rita was also recognised as Best Apalta, consolidating its position as one of the leading expressions of the variety nationwide.

Viña Santa Rita celebrates a new milestone for its high-end portfolio after Pewën de Apalta 2024 was recognised as Best Carmenère of Chile in the wine guide by renowned critic and Master of Wine Alistair Cooper, as part of the Catad’Or World Wine Awards 2026.

The 2024 vintage achieved 96 points and was also distinguished as Best Apalta, highlighting the exceptional quality of a red wine that precisely expresses the outstanding character of one of Chile’s most emblematic terroirs for this variety.

Originating from a small block of dry-farmed vines planted in 1938 in the heart of Apalta, in the Colchagua Valley, this wine embodies the elegance, depth, and maturity that only old vines can deliver.

The label design is inspired by the araucaria, a native and sacred Chilean tree present in Santa Rita’s historic park, declared a National Heritage Monument, symbolising identity and continuity.

This latest recognition adds to a strong international track record. In 2025, the 2023 vintage marked a major milestone for the variety when it was named Best Carmenère in the World, receiving the Master Medal at The Global Carmenère Masters organised by The Drinks Business. In addition, it has been named Best Carmenère in Chile for five consecutive years by Descorchados Guide.

With this new distinction, Pewën de Apalta consolidates its place among the great expressions of Chilean Carmenère, reflecting the quality of an exceptional origin and Viña Santa Rita’s ongoing commitment to winemaking excellence.