Wine Review: 2008 Santa Rita Carmenere Medalla Real Single Estate, Colchagua Valley, Chile
This Carménère represents the Colchagua Valley well, offering up an accurate sense of place with a wonderful expression of the varietal. Carménère to me has an exceptional depth and complexity that seems to go beyond that of Merlot to which it is continuously, but unfairly compared to. The oozy, fruity oaky goodness represents a different, if not a bit funky, kind of package has arrived. But that’s OK, because we like to get down like that, so it’s all good.
Dark brooding aromas reminiscent of ripe black fruit emanates from the glass as you swirl and sniff, signaling a unique tactile experience has begun. As the wine cascades across your palate, the herbaceousness starts to climb stopping short of being over the top. That flavor profile gives way to cherry and floral components that blend well with the chocolate and vanilla characteristically prevalent in well-made Carménère. The soft texturally pleasing finish will have you smacking your lips and reaching for the glass to enjoy another sip. Break out the big boy cuisine because this wine is like Mr. Clean when it comes to wiping your palate before you take another bite of whatever you decided to pair with this ingratiating libation. Enjoy!
Rating: Excellent (91) | $18 | 14.1% ABV
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