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 Eduardo Chadwick, fifth generation and proprietor of Errazuriz, is to Chile what Nicholas Catena was for Argentina and Robert Mondavi was for California.

 He has proved that also Chile is not just about value for money, and that his top wines can equally compete with the very best. Their potential was applauded over several blind tastings against first growths such as Lafite, Margaux, Latour and Mouton, and Super-Tuscans including Solaia, Sassicaia and Tignanello. First tasting was held in Berlin 2004 and was followed by a series of equivalent tastings around the world. Also one taking place at Hotel D’Angleterre in Copenhagen May 2008.

 Don Maximiano Founder’s Reserve is made to honour Errazuriz’s founder Don Maximiano and was the first of Eduardo’s three icon wines to be released in 1989. A Cabernet dominated blend. Richly textured, with intense cassis, blueberry, truffle and leather on the nose.

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 Mushrooms make a great companion to the intense Don Maximiano. When lacking truffles; grilled Porcini will do just fine. Here on soft oversized crostini with wild garlic, thyme and Parma ham (matured 24 months).

The porcelain is made by the Swedish manufacturer “Rörstrand”.

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 Rustic set-up with salad served on the side.

 Seasoning and one’s taste to flavour can be quite individual. So when serving Italian inspired dishes I think allowing your guests access to good quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar is just as essential as having salt and pepper on the table.