Archive: Chile: Other Red

MontGras 2003 Quatro Reserva Colchagua Valley ($16). An intriguing Bordeaux blend (Carmenere, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), this well-priced Chilean red offers sturdy body and structure, with deep black cherry, green herbs, tobacco and roasted coffee aromas and flavors, with a wave of sweet vanillin oak on the full finish. Perfect with a grilled steak or mixed grill — indeed, it needs food. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine 04/05)

(oops) 2005 Cabernet Franc Camenère Valle Central ($12). Lean blackberry and cherry flavors are matched by rather strong dried herb notes. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks 07/07)

Vina Montes 2003 Purple Angel Colchagua Valley ($48). Deep and grapey aromas with a definite espresso thread. Then smooth and supple on the palate, with warm spices lacing ripe plum and cherry. Stays intense through the long finish, picking up a sweet tobacco note. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. A Carmenere, Petit Verdot blend. (Weekend Wine 10/05)

Santa Rita 2004 Triple C Maipo Valley ($56). Blockbuster stuff, with rich black currant and blackberry flavors accented with sweet tobacco, earth, mocha and exotic spices. Nothing shy about this wine, from start to full-bodied finish, with some definite grip throughout. A blend of 55% Cabernet Franc, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Carménère. Ready to drink now and over the next four or five years. (Drinks with Les Dames 02/08)

 

Vina Tarapaca 2000 Zavala Maipo Valley ($22). Interesting blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Merlot (30%) and Syrah (20%). Concentrated, with extracted red fruit flavors, white pepper and spicy dark chocolate notes. Long finish. Ready to drink now and over the next two or three years. (Weekend Wine, 12/03)

Viu Manent 2001 Viu 1 Colchagua Valley ($50). Opulent and lush, with a deep violet color and heady black currant, chocolate and spice aromas that carry through on the palate, along with espresso, tobacco and earthy notes. Finishes long and strong with a toasty oak character. A blend of Malbec (90%) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Quite impressive — especially for just the second release of this proprietary blend from Chile. Ready to drink now and over the next three years. (Weekend Wine 11/04)