More Praise for Chile's Wines

Filed in archive Wines from Chile on October 10, 2006

I hear a lot about wines from Chile, but I have to say that I don't see a lot of variety offered in my small circle, which includes a few wine clubs and local grocery and liquor store.

I guess that means I need to look a little harder, perhaps break out of my buying routine now and then.

Here's yet another article praising Chile's wines, even offering a few tasting suggestions for those not in the know. I've included the list of their budget wines because, well, okay, I'm cheap!

From Si, Santiago, we'll drink another glass:

Great budget buys:

Meanwhile, back in the workaday world, here's a sampling that will serve only to deliver yet more solid proof that Chile really does deliver at both ends of the spectrum.

- Montes Classic Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2006: Montes is renowned more for its bold reds but this crisp, clean Sauvignon with passion fruit and tropical tones hits the mark at $14.63 (BCLS).

- Casa La Joya Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2006: Fruit driven, quite aromatic and nicely weighty, from family-owned Vina Bisquertt, a name to note for well-made, affordable bottles ($13.92).

- Casa La Joya Carmenere 2004: Chile has really begun to hit its stride with Carmenere, and this is a prime example: ripe, bright red berries with plush tannins, a hint of spice and a long finish ($13.92).

- Vina Carmen Reserve Chardonnay 2005: The "regular" Chard. remains an excellent buy at $13.95 but for a few dollars more this reserve from Casablance (close to the ocean) delivers a more interesting cool-climate character with toasty French oak and balanced citrus ($18.95).

- Vin Errazuriz Max Reserva Cab. Sauv 2005: The pedigree of Vina Chadwick and Sena (which consistently win big in blind tastings beside Bordeaux, Napa and Super Tuscans) is readily apparent in Errazuriz's entry level reserves.