I was just writing up both of these Reserva de Familia reds from Chile’s Santa Carolina — looking back at my tasting notes and assembling a coherent paragraph or two… Then I checked the price and literally said “wow” right here at my desk, to nobody in particular. For just fifteen bucks each, these are serious bargains! 

Vina Santa Carolina 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley Reserva de Familia ($15). Medium bodied, balanced, delicious, offering black currant and plum fruit laced with mocha, toast, tobacco and vanilla notes through the plummy finish. Ready to drink now and over the next 2-3 years. Locate this wine online or in your area. 

Vina Santa Carolina 2007 Carmenere Rapel Valley Reserva de Familia ($15). Wow — if all Carmenere tasted like this, it would have a better reputation! I could drink this all day long — deep, rich plum and berry fruit is accented with clove, licorice, tobacco and briar notes that linger on the plush finish. Locate this wine online or in your area.