Chillean Wines provide some of the best value drinking to be found anywhere, especially the heavier red varieties that thrive the in warm, dry Chilean climate. Very much like the wines produced in the hot Barossa Valley in South Australia varieties like Syrah (Shiraz), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot deliver big, fat, fruity treats that have very soft tannins making them easy drinking red wines.
One variety Chile produces, arguably better than any other county, is Carmenere. This grape variety is an old variety from Gironde in France that according to DNA testing is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Gros Cabernet, a variety that is no longer grown. Introduced into Chile in the mid-19th century Carmenere has thrived so well Chilean growers now claim it as their own because no other country can extract the delicious flavours from the variety. It is also growing hugely in popularity in store with a couple of very good examples in stock.
The one I think provides outstanding value and exceptional drinkability is the Casillero del Diablo 2013 Carmenere. For just $14.99 on special it is simply packed with luscious black berry fruit and chocolate flavours, in fact the chocolate is so dominant it is almost like drinking a fruity chocolate bar. Shiraz from the same producer is very similar to South Australian examples with soft chocolate and a touch of black pepper spice enhancing the very ripe fruit flavours.
Next time you are in store check out the range of international wines available to choose from and make sure you tuck a bottle of Carmenere into your shopping trolley and enjoy it with a juicy barbecued steak, summer is here after all.
Thanks to our Guest Blogger – Neil Hodgson
