Friday, March 26, 2010

WCOW: Chile Single Red Varietal Nationals

Country: Chile
Manager: Liam Carrier

Chile is known for great Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Carmenere. It is not really known for great Malbec, but I came across a value-priced gem at Marquis Wine Cellars last year and was mightily impressed. I matched it against a great Carmenere from the Maipo Valley which is one of the better examples of this spicy and smooth grape around the $20 price point.

Both of these wines are sold around the world closer to the $10 mark but due to our ridiculous import taxes in British Columbia (60%), show-up closer to the $20 price point. Luckily, both are worth the price in local currency and offer good examples of the fine wines produced in Chile. Chile = value (just not as great value compared to purchasing the same wines within the USA).

Wine #1: Haras de Pirque 2008 Equus Carmenere
Price: $19.99
Region: Maipo Valle
Country: Chile
Notes: The palate offers flavours of dark fruit, pepper, toasted oak, cooking spice and nibs that will please your mouth and culminates in a smooth and lingering finish.
Full review: Follow Link
Score: 88 points

Wine #2: Luis Felipe Edwards 2006 Reserva Malbec
Price: $15
Region: Puquillay Valley - Rapel
Country: Chile
Notes: Inky-purple core with a ruby rim, this full-bodied Chilean charmer offers an intense nose of red-berry and spice aromas.
Full review: Follow Link
Score: 89 points

Conclusion: The Luis Felipe Edwards 2006 Reserva Malbec takes this match-up on points and uniqueness. I look forward to the inevitable taste-off between this Malbec from Chile and the Argentina submission in the single-red category which will likely also be a Malbec.

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