Experience Pedro Parra Trane 2021, a vibrant Chilean Cinsault from old vines in Itata Valley. Medium-bodied with red cherries, rose petals, and silky tannins—ideal for elegant meals and celebrations. Read more.
The Pedro Parra Trane 2021 is a profound single-vineyard Cinsault from Chile's Itata Valley, crafted by Pedro Parra, a visionary winemaker whose background in geology informs his pursuit of soil-specific expressions. Named after jazz legend John Coltrane, this wine draws from a vineyard planted in 1944 in Guarilihue Alto, where the silty, sandy granitic soils contribute to its unique power and finesse. The 2021 vintage captures the essence of a balanced growing season, with cool temperatures preserving acidity and allowing for slow ripening, resulting in grapes that embody purity and intensity. Parra's hands-off approach—native yeast fermentation in concrete and aging in large, neutral foudres—ensures the wine remains a true reflection of its terroir, with minimal intervention to let the old vines speak. Aromatically, the Trane opens with a fresh and enticing bouquet of red fruits, featuring cherries, raspberries, and hints of red currant, layered with delicate rose petals and a subtle white pepper spice that adds an intriguing lift. As it aerates, herbal nuances emerge, evoking wild thyme and lavender, alongside a mineral undercurrent reminiscent of crushed granite. This aromatic complexity sets the stage for a palate that is medium-bodied and elegantly structured, with plush red fruit flavors of ripe cherry and strawberry unfolding in waves. The tannins are silky and well-integrated, providing a soft yet supportive framework that enhances the wine's juiciness without any astringency. Acidity is sharp and refreshing, cutting through the fruit to deliver a smooth, balanced mouthfeel, while subtle herbal characters and a simmering mineral intensity build toward the finish. The conclusion is expansive and sweet-tinged, with the fruit swelling in harmony with earthy notes, leaving a long, perfumed aftertaste of plush berries and spice. At around 13.5% alcohol, it's a versatile red that pairs wonderfully with elegant dishes—think roasted duck breast with cherry sauce, where the fruit echoes the wine's profile, or grilled salmon with herbs to accentuate the peppery notes. For vegetarian options, it excels with ratatouille or stuffed bell peppers, allowing the savory elements to interplay with the wine's herbal side. Cheese lovers might enjoy it with semi-soft varieties like Camembert or goat cheese, enhancing the floral aspects. Biodynamically produced with low sulfites, this wine appeals to those seeking natural yet polished expressions, and its old-vine heritage imparts a depth that evolves beautifully in the glass. Pedro Parra's inspiration from jazz is evident here, as the Trane improvises between power and subtlety, much like Coltrane's saxophone solos. With potential to age for 7-10 years, it may develop more tertiary notes of leather and earth, but it's immensely enjoyable now for its vibrancy. In the context of Chilean wine, this bottling represents the revival of Cinsault as a serious varietal, moving away from bulk production to showcase Itata's potential for world-class reds. Parra's family involvement adds a personal touch, with his children often featured in the branding, emphasizing legacy and passion. The Trane 2021 is not just a wine but a sensory tribute to creativity, terroir, and tradition, inviting drinkers to explore the nuances of South American viticulture. It's an excellent choice for jazz evenings, dinner parties, or quiet reflections, offering layers of flavor that unfold like a musical composition. For collectors, its limited production makes it a gem to seek out, while newcomers will appreciate its approachable elegance. Ultimately, this wine bridges the gap between old-world restraint and new-world exuberance, solidifying Pedro Parra's status as a trailblazer in modern winemaking.