The 1999 Almaviva holds a special place in its history, being the inaugural vintage produced in its dedicated winery located in Puente Alto, Chile. This wine is a testament to the visionary joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Viña Concha y Toro, forged with the ambition to craft an exceptional Franco-Chilean premium wine. The 1999 growing season was characterized by severe drought and high temperatures, which led to an early harvest of ripe, healthy, and highly concentrated grapes, ultimately yielding a remarkable wine. Almaviva has consistently demonstrated outstanding quality, solidifying Puente Alto's reputation as one of the world's premier regions for Cabernet Sauvignon. Regarding tasting notes, the 1999 Almaviva is described as a ripe black cherry-stained wine, powerful and intense, brimming with complex aromas of forest berries, cassis, boysenberry, mineral notes, cedar, and leather. Nuances of toast, grilled coffee grains, and bitter chocolate intermingle with wild raspberries. On the palate, it presents a bold, ample, and vivacious attack, evolving into a strong structure supported by round, tight, and refined tannins. Expect excellent concentration of berries and dark cocoa, with lingering aromas of smooth coffee. Robert Parker awarded this vintage 90 points, noting its medium to dark ruby color and a style reminiscent of Margaux. For a wine of this venerable age, expect a beautiful evolution of tertiary aromas and flavors, showcasing the elegance that comes with time. The cork may be fragile, so it is highly advisable to use a specialized opener like a Durand to prevent breakage. Decanting is strongly recommended to allow the wine to breathe and to separate any natural sediment that may have formed over the decades. Serve at approximately 16-18°C (60-64°F) in large Bordeaux glasses to fully appreciate its intricate complexity and nuanced character. 🍴 This mature Almaviva pairs exquisitely with robust and flavorful dishes. Consider it with roasted lamb, a classic beef Wellington, rich venison stew, or a selection of aged hard cheeses. Its complexity also makes it a superb match for truffle-infused dishes or sophisticated mushroom preparations. 🥂 The 1999 Almaviva is an ideal choice for celebrating a milestone anniversary, hosting a sophisticated tasting event focused on aged Bordeaux blends, or a special gathering with fellow wine enthusiasts who appreciate the elegance, history, and profound character of well-aged wines.