September 5th during the First Friday Wine Tasting, The Art of Wine sampled incredible wines from Chile. Chile has a long viticultural history as a New World Wine region dating to the 16th century; when the Spanish Conquistadores brought vitis vinifera vines with them as they colonized the region.
Carmenere is Chile’s own signature grape, this red varietal disappeared from European vineyards in the mid-19th century and reappeared among Chile’s Merlot vines a hundred years later. The deepest, darkest, purplest of all red grapes needs a long growing season to reach its fullest potential. Rich in berry fruits and spice (think blackberries and black pepper), with smooth, well-rounded tannins, making this a very pleasing and easy to drink varietal. Enjoy it with red meats and corn-based dishes, such as Chile’s favorite pastel de choclo (corn and meat pie), or take advantage of its natural fruity spiciness and serve it up with Indian curry or a Mexican mole.
Tasting List:
- 2012 De Martino Sauvignon Blanc
- 2009 Oveja Negra Chardonnay/Viognier
- 2011 Pacifico Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon
- 2011 Oveja Negra Carmenere
- 2011 Perez Cruz Cot