Wines of Chile Tasting

The "Wines of Chile" tasting was held at the elegant Sutton Place Hotel in Vancouver, BC on May 11th, 2010 and featured select wines from 15 wineries. Already a Chilean wine fan, I was hoping to discover a few new quality gems and budget wines that over-deliver. Happily, I found both.

Gems to seek-out:

Viña San Pedro 2007 "1865" Syrah - $24.99
From Cachapoal Valley, a bright and fruity without being at all jammy. Great texture and spice on the finish. Special Order from Diamond Estate Wines and Spirits.

MontGras 2007 Quatro - $19.99
From Colchagua Valley this is a fun and bold blend of 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 24% Syrah and 15% Carmenere. Excellent example of an inventive New World blend that delivers elegance and complexity. Special order from The Kirkwood Group. CSPC #80051

MontGras 2007 Antu Ninquen Syrah - $24.99
The best Syrah of the tasting. Complex and refined with intense fruit flavours. Colchagua Valley. Special order from The Kirkwood Group. CSPC #173500

Budget wines to stock-up on:

Terra Andina 2008 Carmenere Rose - $9.99
Budget wine and fairly simple, but very drinkable and refreshing - a great price. Special order from Marc Anthony Brands. CSPC #487215

Vermonte 2008 Reserva Chardonnay - $14.99
Nicely oaked Chard with good fruit presence. Excellent value. Special order from Landmark Selections. CSPC #494443

Viña Maipo 2008 Gran Devocion Carmenere/Syrah - $18.95
A nicely spiced blend that allows the juicy fruit through. An excellent price to boot. Special order from Select Wines.