Overview
Carmenère was mistaken for Merlot for over a century in Chile. Only in 1994 was it identified as the 'lost' Bordeaux variety. On clay soils with abundant sunshine, Colchagua Carmenère produces wines of velvety, dark-fruited richness with a distinctive herbaceous, chocolate note.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Deep purple
- Nose
- Dark plum, Blackberry, Black cherry, Green pepper and Dark chocolate.
- Palate
- Chile's signature — velvety Carmenère, uniquely South American. Generally full-bodied, medium acidity, medium tannins, dry, with a long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Full4/5
Tannins Medium3/5
Acidity Medium3/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol High4/5
Grapes
CarmenèreCabernet SauvignonMerlot
Aromas And Notes
Dark plumBlackberryBlack cherryChocolateGreen pepperDark chocolateCoffeeSpiceLeatherTobaccoEarth
Terroir
Mediterranean — hot, dry summers; Pacific influence moderates; Andean diurnal range.
ClaySandy loamAlluvial
Food Pairings
EmpanadasGrilled beefLamb stewAged Manchego
Notable Producers
- Lapostolle, founded 1994 - Clos Apalta
- Casa Silva, founded 1892 - Los Lingues Gran Reserva