WINE REVIEW: Cona Sur 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Syrah. Chile ($13)

by Andrew Chalk

Two things in the wine world worth knowing are Chile, and Carménère.

Chile is the South American country with boundless oenological opportunity and a lot to be proud of right now. Carménère is a grape with Bordeaux origins that has excelled in Chile’s verdant Valle Centrale. This bargain-priced example is a good way to get a feel for each.

It is a straightforward wine that is fairly priced. Quaff or pair with red meat. Barbecued brisket would be a good choice.

Appearance: Opaque ark ruby with blackberry hints;

Nose: Pyrazines, cassis, meatiness;

Palate: Fruit forward, strawberries, raspberries. Timid tannins. Little oak. Simple.

Sample.