Kaiken May

The Kaiken Mai is the flagship Malbec from Kaiken Wines – denser, more structured, and designed for longer aging than the most common entry-level Malbecs from Mendoza.

Kaiken was founded in 2001 by the traditional Chilean winery Montes in Mendoza. The grapes for the Mai come from high-altitude sites in Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, where cooler nights and intense sunlight ensure concentration while maintaining acidity. It is aged in French wooden barrels – hence the fine wood spice without clumsy roasted aromas.

In the glass, the Mai shows deep ruby red. On the nose, blackberry, dark plum, and a hint of smoked wood, underneath chocolate and tobacco. On the palate, medium to full body, velvet-soft tannins, lively acidity. The finish is long, slightly spicy with vanilla and dark berries.

Recommendation: Pairs well with pan-seared beef, leg of lamb with a herb crust, or mature Manchego. Serving temperature 17–18 °C.