What Shiraz is to Australia, or Malbec is to Argentina, Carmenere is to Chile. They’re hanging their collective wine hats on it. The good news is that many wineries are really working at picking the best sites and viticulture and winemaking procedures for this native Bordeaux grape.

Viña Casa Silva is a case in point. They are working with the Universidad de Talca and Corfo — a branch of the Chilean government — to research and analyze wines made from various lots on the winery’s estates.

I thought these were both very good — pretty fruit, nice body, velvety texture:

Viña Casa Silva 2005 Carmenere Colchagua Valley Microterroir de los Lingues ($49). Spicy blackberry is layered with mineral, sage, black olive and toast, with a velvety, plummy finish that lingers nicely. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Viña Casa Silva 2006 Carmenere Colchagua Valley Los Lingues Gran Reserva ($23). Nice value here, with ripe blackberry and plum flavors that stay fresh through the smooth finish, picking up creamy, toasty vanilla and light spice notes through the finish. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.