South American Wine Guide, Independent Guide to the Best Wines in South America for Visitors to Peru

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South American Wines

An Introduction to the Wines of South America for Visitors to Peru

Wines from Chile: Introduction / Regions / Notable Producers / Reviews

Reviews

Wine Spectator Top Wines from Chile:

Classic Wines: 96 points / 95 points / 94 points

Outstanding Wines: 93 points / 92 points / 91 points / 90 points

Very Good Wines: 89 points

89 Points

2 Brothers Syrah Colchagua Valley Reserva 2005 89 $15
Fresh and juicy, with lots of mint, cassis bush, dark plum and mocha notes that all ripple through a tangy, briary finish. Very solid. Drink now through 2008. 555 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2007

Viña Altaïr Cachapoal Valley 2005 89 $65
Concentrated but supple, with a core of black currant and warm fig flavors layered with cigar box, aged tobacco, plum sauce reduction, loam and coffee. The persistent finish shows latent richness. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Carmenère. Best from 2009 through 2012. 2,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2008

Viña Amaral Chardonnay Leyda Valley Wild Fermented 2007 89 $19
This has nice cut and length, with a mouthwatering undertow carrying the yellow apple, quince and pear flavors. Fine minerality extends the finish. A very pure, unadorned style. Drink now through 2010. 5,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Apr 30, 2009

Antinori-Matte Albis Maipo Valley 2003 89 $55
Solid and structured, with tangy minerality and a racy graphite edge carrying fresh black currant, sweet tobacco and cocoa notes. Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère. Drink now through 2008. 2,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
May 31, 2007

Antiyal Kuyen Maipo Valley 2004 89 $22
Ripe, dark fruit--plum, currant and fig--is layered with smoky toast, loam and mineral notes. Structured finish needs to unwind a bit, but there's lots of stuffing. Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2008. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

Apaltagua Carmenère Colchagua Valley Grial 2003 89 $40
Ripe, with lots of blackberry, plum, briar, sweet spice and vanilla notes, all nicely layered through the lengthy finish. Nice minerally tang. Drink now through 2008. 500 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2007

Botalcura Cabernet Sauvignon Rapel Valley La Porfia Grand Reserve 2005 89 $17
Focused, with a solid core of raspberry, red currant, shaved vanilla and cedar notes riding along fine-grained tannins. The long, racy finish shows briar and more red fruit notes. Drink now through 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 6,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2008

Viña Carmen Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Wine Maker's Reserve 2003 89 $45
Wonderfully rich, with pear, fig and apple fruit that won't quit, along with toast and grilled hazelnut notes. Powerfully toasty, this may be a bit audacious for some, but loved by others. Drink now through 2006. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2004

Casa Lapostolle Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Cuvée Alexandre Apalta Vineyard 2003 89 $20
Muscular and brutish now, with thick dark cocoa and toast dominating the blackberry and currant fruit. Big, brawny finish is loaded, but very tight. Worth cellaring to see if the fruit can push through the toast. Best from 2006 through 2008. 10,486 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2005
Wine Vintage Score
Release Price

Viña Casa Marín Sauvignon Blanc San Antonio Valley Cipreses Vineyard 2004 89 $40
Rich, with an intriguing mix of lemon zest, honeysuckle, gooseberry and chalk flavors. The nice, crisp, nearly bracing finish delivers another shot of citrus. Very tasty. Drink now. 625 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2005

Viña Casa Marín Sauvignon Blanc San Antonio Valley Cipreses Vineyard 2003 89 $35
Enticing aromas of freshly cut grass and chive flower, with a ripe, racy palate of lemon verbena, straw and chalk. Nice, minerally finish. Well done. Drink now. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Jun 30, 2005

Viña Casa Marín Sauvignon Blanc San Antonio Valley Cipreses Vineyard 2005 89 $36
Rich, with lemon zest, honeysuckle and straw flavors that glide through a nicely detailed finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Nov 30, 2006

Viña Casa Marín Gewürztraminer San Antonio Valley Casona Vineyard 2007 89 $36
Has nice freshness, with lemon verbena, grapefruit peel and lychee notes that stay pure and lively through the finish. Drink now. 665 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Casa Marín Sauvignon Blanc San Antonio Valley Cipreses Vineyard 2007 89 $25
There's freshly cut grass and asparagus notes in this lively, crisp Sauvignon Blanc, with a lingering, chive- and sweet pea-filled finish that opens up nicely in the glass. Drink now. 2,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Casa Silva Carmenère Colchagua Valley Los Lingues Gran Reserva 2006 89 $18
A nice ripe version, with a layer of vanilla toast guiding sweet plum and mixed berry fruit through a creamy-textured finish. Drink now through 2009. 15,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2008

Viña Casa Silva Viognier Colchagua Valley Lolol 2008 89 $22
Juicy and pure, with tasty fennel seed, anise and green plum notes that glide through the rich, rounded, almond-tinged finish. Drink now. 300 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Viñedo Chadwick Maipo Valley 2005 89 $125
Slightly chewy in texture, with a solid core of dark cherry and currant fruit backed by long cocoa and bacony toast-filled finish. Solid, but not up to previous vintages. This was the better of two bottles. Drink now through 2011. 1,192 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Concha y Toro Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Amelia 2004 89 $35
Nice creamy texture, with apple, fig, floral and mineral notes unencumbered by toast. Just a touch soft in the end, but still very stylish. A shade less concentrated than previous vintages. Drink now. 2,100 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2006

Concha y Toro Chardonnay Pirque Marqués de Casa Concha 2004 89 $16
Juicy, with apple, pineapple and fig fruit kept lively by mineral and floral notes. Very lively finish has nice length. Drink now. 19,200 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2006

Concha y Toro Merlot Peumo Marqués de Casa Concha 2004 89 $19
Starts with flashy toast, but also shows good cassis and plum fruit, backed by a nice varietal note of grilled herb on the finish. Drink now through 2007. 38,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Pirque Terrunyo 2004 89 $30
A polished, elegant style, with red currant, floral and mineral notes backed by a lingering hint of red licorice on the finish. Supple and lengthy. Drink now through 2009. 4,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Nov 30, 2007

Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Maipo Valley Casillero del Diablo Reserva Privada 2006 89 $17
Dark, with a loamy undertow to the black currant, melted licorice and roasted coffee notes. Fleshy and pure through the finish. This has solid grip. Drink now through 2010. 70,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Nov 30, 2008

Concha y Toro Syrah Peumo Marqués de Casa Concha 2006 89 $21
Focused, with good dark coffee, black cherry and dark licorice notes followed by a loamy hint. The finish is dark, juicy and driven. Drink now through 2009. 7,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Dec 15, 2008

Concha y Toro Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley Terrunyo 2006 89 $25
Offers nice citrus peel, mineral and floral flavors, with straw and sweet pea lingering on the steely, lengthy finish. Nicely done. Drink now. 6,600 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Apr 30, 2007

Concha y Toro Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Amelia 2006 89 $33
Stylish but persistent, with apple, pear and mineral notes that race along a bright, fresh frame. Solid length. Drink now through 2009. 2,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2008

Viña Cono Sur Riesling Bío Bío Valley Visión 2007 89 $15
Bright and juicy, showing a nice minerally edge to the pink grapefruit, lime and candied lemon peel notes, with a tangy, driven finish. Delicious. Drink now through 2009. 6,600 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
South Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Cono Sur Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley 20 Barrels 2007 89 $20
Shows nice sweet pea, chalk, floral and lemon verbena flavors, with a long, pure, stony finish. Drink now. 1,100 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Cono Sur Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley 20 Barrels 2008 89 $20
A very pure, bracing style, with tasty fleur de sel, white asparagus, thyme and lemon zest notes, followed by a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2009

Viñedos y Bodegas Córpora Cabernet Sauvignon Aconcagua Valley Porta Gran Reserva 2007 89 $NA
Structured but sleek, with a nicely integrated grip carrying the raspberry ganache, licorice, sweet spice and fruitcake notes through the graphite-tinged finish. Drink now through 2010. 743 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Viña Echeverría Cabernet Sauvignon Molina Family Reserva 2005 89 $20
Polished and restrained, with supple layers of red and black currant fruit woven with roasted vanilla, cedar and coffee notes that extend the finish. Drink now through 2010. 2,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Curicó Issue Date:
Nov 30, 2008

Viña Echeverría Cabernet Sauvignon Molina Family Reserva 2004 89 $20
Elegant, restrained style, with cocoa powder, red currant, cedar and mineral notes that glide over fine-grained tannins. Understated, but nicely balanced, and has deceptive depth. Drink now through 2008. 2,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Curicó Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2007

Luis Felipe Edwards Doña Bernarda Private Collection Colchagua Valley 2004 89 $25
Structured, with ample toast. Offers slightly chewy layers of currant and fig fruit supported by briar, sweet toast and licorice. A raisined hint on the finish holds it back, but this is still very solid. Drink now through 2010. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viñedos Emiliana Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Novas 2006 89 $16
Well-made, with glazed pear, green apple, lime and grilled nut notes on a bright, juicy frame, followed by a lingering finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Jun 15, 2008

Viña Errázuriz Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Wild Ferment 2005 89 $21
A bold style, showing lots of toasted brioche followed by ripe, soft pear, fig and butter notes, with a nice honey hint on the rich finish. Drink now. 700 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Apr 30, 2007

Viña Errázuriz Carmenère Aconcagua Valley Kai 2005 89 $50
Shows solid ripeness, with black cherry and currant notes taking charge over hints of aged tobacco, bittersweet cocoa and grilled herb. Has nice grip on the finish. Drink now through 2009. 530 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Errázuriz Shiraz Aconcagua Valley Max Reserva 2005 89 $21
A nice mix of ripe black and blue fruits, with alluring toast, mineral and spice notes and a solid finish. Drink now. 1,000 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
May 15, 2007

Viña Errázuriz Shiraz Aconcagua Valley La Cumbre 2006 89 $80
Offers a nicely focused, pure beam of raspberry ganache and dark cocoa, with a hint of grilled herb chiming in on the medium-weight finish. Drink now through 2010. 1,400 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Kingston Family Syrah Casablanca Valley Bayo Oscuro 2003 89 $28
Freshly crushed raspberry and boysenberry fruit aromas and flavors here, with notes of pepper, fig and minerals. Fleshy in the middle, but with nice taut acidity holding the finish together. Drink now through 2005. 230 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2004

Kingston Family Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley Alazan 2004 89 $28
Rich, with a juicy core of black cherry and plum fruit backed by sweet toast and spice notes. A nice, lingering hint of briar on the finish. Drink now. 350 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Web Only - 2006

Kingston Family Syrah Casablanca Valley Bayo Oscuro 2006 89 $28
Very enticing, with lots of white pepper and violet aromas followed by crushed plum and licorice notes. Smoky and fleshy on the finish, but stays fresh, with nice drive. Drink now through 2009. 480 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2008

Kingston Family Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley Alazan 2003 89 $28
Delightful red and black cherry aroma, with fleshy, medium-weight cherry, plum, spice and toast flavors that build through the finish, where a nice spicy hint lingers. Really delicious. Drink now through 2005. 230 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2004

Viña Leyda Chardonnay San Antonio Valley Lot 5 Wild Yeasts 2006 89 $26
A lush, toasty style, with fig, persimmon and brioche notes that stay fresh and lively, with a long, hazelnut-tinged finish. Drink now. 70 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2008

J. & F. Lurton Carmenère Colchagua Valley Alka Hacienda Araucano 2003 89 $65
Admirably ripe for Carmenère, with raspberry and black cherry fruit that glides along vanilla and cocoa notes. Plush and smoky on the finish, but stays light on its feet. Nicely done. Drink now. 500 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2006

J. & F. Lurton Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley Gran Araucano 2006 89 $20
Rich but restrained, showing medium-weight lemon verbena, straw, grapefruit and mineral notes, with a long, nicely detailed finish. Drink now. 750 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Jul 31, 2007

J. & F. Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Gran Araucano 2004 89 $35
Solid, with well-integrated mocha and vanilla notes pushed by a ripe core of blackberry and black currant fruit. The plush finish has nice length. Drink now through 2009. 375 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

De Martino Syrah Colchagua Valley Single Vineyard 2003 89 $25
Beautiful nose of plums, violets and vanilla, with a silky palate of plum, black fig, vanilla and mineral notes that run through a lush and lengthy finish. Restrained in style, but lovely balance and deceptively concentrated. Drink now through 2007. 900 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2005

De Martino Carmenère Maipo Valley Single Vineyard 2005 89 $25
Rich, with dark loam, currant and coffee flavors that ride along fine-grained tannins. The plush, smoky finish shows a tobacco twinge. Drink now. 1,700 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2007

De Martino Syrah Choapa Valley Legado Reserva 2005 89 $15
Dark and alluring, with nicely structured black currant, plum, tar, tobacco and mineral notes that run through the full-bodied finish. Slightly firm in the end, with a healthy dose of cocoa, but plenty of flesh and fruit. Drink now through 2008. 3,600 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2007

De Martino Chardonnay Limarí Valley Legado Reserva 2007 89 $18
Focused and pure, with a long, elegant beam of Jonagold apple and pear fruit that's supported by a mouthwatering minerality, which stretches out the lengthy finish. Should blossom nicely with modest cellaring. Drink now through 2010. 5,200 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2009

De Martino Chardonnay Limarí Valley Legado Reserva 2006 89 $15
Very tasty, with fresh-cut green apple, pear and fig notes backed by judicious toast. Nice lingering finish lets a minerality check in for added length. Drink now. 4,270 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2008

Matetic Pinot Noir San Antonio EQ 2003 89 $25
Lush and elegant, with freshly crushed red and black cherry fruit layered with vanilla and spice notes. Creamy texture but lively acidity underneath. Drink now through 2006. 520 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Dec 15, 2005

Matetic Pinot Noir San Antonio EQ 2005 89 $32
Rich and polished, with a creamy texture and layers of cherry, plum and raspberry fruit kissed by a touch of sweet toast on the finish. A very fruit-friendly style that will have lots of fans. Drink now. 1,200 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Oct 31, 2007

Matetic Syrah San Antonio Corralillo Reserve 2006 89 $22
Focused, with enticing blackberry and currant fruit backed by a racy graphite edge and a dash of mocha on the finish. Drink now through 2009. 1,830 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2008

Viña Maycas Chardonnay Limarí Valley Maycas del Limarí Reserva Especial 2006 89 $20
A nice crunchy, minerally style, with stone fruit, pippin apple and lime flavors that race through the refreshing finish. Drink now through 2008. 2,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Nov 15, 2007

Viña Maycas Syrah Limarí Valley Maycas del Limarí Reserva Especial 2006 89 $23
Dark, with currant and fig fruit, but silky and fresh, with well-integrated toast and a lengthy, creamy finish that lets mineral and roasted sage notes check in. A nice combination of power and elegance. Drink now through 2010. 2,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2009

Viña Montes Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Alpha 2003 89 $23
This sports rich pear and fig fruit along with mineral, toast and floral notes. Solid acidity supports and lengthens the rich finish. Drink now through 2005. 18,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2004

Viña Montes Merlot Colchagua Valley Alpha Apalta Vineyard 2003 89 $23
Enticing mix of red and dark berry fruit, with hints of graphite, cocoa and grilled herbs as well. Fine structure on the finish too. Elegant and lengthy, this grows in the glass. Drink now through 2006. 30,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2005

Viña Montes Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Alpha 2005 89 $25
Pretty pear, apple and piecrust notes on a creamy frame. Judicious toast on the finish lets the minerality come through. Nice length. Drink now. 15,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

Viña Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Alpha Apalta Vineyard 2005 89 $25
Delivers a juicy beam of graphite, licorice, sweet vanilla and crushed plum flavors, with the graphite edge hanging on the finish. Well done. Drink now through 2008. 45,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 31, 2007
Wine Vintage Score
Release Price

Viña Montes Sauvignon Blanc Leyda Valley Leyda Vineyard 2007 89 $16
Bony and chiseled, with lots of lime, sweet pea and gooseberry notes framed by mouthwatering acidity. Very fresh, with solid length. Drink now. 8,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Feb 29, 2008

Viña Montes Carmenère Colchagua Valley Alpha 2007 89 $26
Solid, with juicy black cherry, currant, bramble and roasted vanilla notes. There's nice grip on the finish. Drink now through 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,000 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Apr 30, 2009

Viña Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Alpha Apalta Vineyard 2004 89 $25
A good, solid beam of red currant and blackberry fruit is layered with cocoa, grilled herb and toast. Slightly firm finish from the toast, but plenty of flesh. Should fill out nicely in the near term. Drink now through 2008. 26,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

MontGras Syrah Colchagua Valley Antu Ninquén 2006 89 $20
A ripe, juicy style, with lots of blackberry, briar and sweet spice notes that push through the medium-weight, nicely structured finish, where black tea and fruit echo. Drink now through 2010. 5,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 15, 2008

Viña Morandé House of Morandé Maipo Valley 2003 89 $30
Thick and concentrated despite its age, with plenty of coffee, briar, chestnut, currant paste and mesquite notes pushed by a broad, loamy structure. Wins on power versus purity. Drink now through 2010. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Ninquén Colchagua Valley 2005 89 $48
Ripe and muscular, with a polished exterior of toast and mocha covering the ample core of blackberry, fig and bittersweet cocoa notes. The solid finish lets a sage note chime in. Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2010. 1,200 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2008

Odfjell Carignan Maule Valley Orzada 2003 89 $18
Nice juicy purple and black fruits, with a healthy dose of dark, smoky toast as well. Hints of pepper and cocoa on the finish. Drink now through 2007. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maule Issue Date:
May 31, 2006

Odfjell Colchagua 2004 89 $70
Quite toasty, with lots of sweet vanilla and milk chocolate leading the way for mint, plum and licorice flavors. Round, creamy texture, with the ripe fruit hanging on the finish. Nearly jammy, but keeps it together. For fans of the style. Carmenère. Drink now. 92 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Oct 31, 2007

Odfjell Aliara Central Valley 2005 89 $35
Juicy, with very tasty pepper, plum, hoisin sauce, graphite and black licorice flavors backed by a dark, coffee-tinged finish. This has nice weight. Doesn't get tiring either. Carignane, Malbec, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2010. 450 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Central Valley Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2008

Odfjell Malbec Lontué Orzada 2005 89 $20
Rich but soft, with a caressing texture to the dark plum, tobacco, spice, licorice and hoisin sauce notes. Picks up more flesh and density on the cocoa powder-tinged finish. Drink now through 2010. 1,100 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Curicó Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2008

Odfjell Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Orzada 2003 89 $20
Lots of mocha and vanilla here, but plenty of blackberry and cassis fruit to back it up. Long and ripe on the finish, where a cocoa powder note lingers. Rich, modern-styled Cabernet. Drink now through 2006. 1,255 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2005

Viñedos Orgánicos Emiliana Coyam Colchagua Valley 2004 89 $NA
Offers a solid mix of grilled herb, tobacco, olive, loam and black currant fruit, with the loamy note driving the finish. May be a touch too herbal for some, but this shows plenty of character. Syrah, Carmenère, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre. Not imported into the U.S. Drink now through 2008. 8,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Web Only - 2007

Viña Peñalolén Sauvignon Blanc Limarí Valley 2003 89 $12
Intriguing Sauvignon, with rambunctious straw, earth, chalk and pea notes on a bracing texture. Lots here, but stays very light on its feet. I like this. Drink now. 3,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Coquimbo Issue Date:
Feb 29, 2004

Viña Quebrada de Macul Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley Domus Aurea 2003 89 $50
Concentrated, with currant and fig paste notes, this also offers an array of grilled sage, cedar, mushroom and game flavors followed by a loamy grip on the finish. Has character, but this is not as cohesive as previous vintages. Tasted four times, the best two of which were consistent with this review. Drink now through 2012. 1,800 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Jul 31, 2007

Viña Quintay Sauvignon Blanc Casablanca Valley 2007 89 $16
This is rock-solid, with mouthwatering lime, sea salt and sweet pea flavors backed by a bracing, thyme-tinged finish. Has a latent richness. Drink now. 2,000 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Jun 15, 2008

Viña San Pedro Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley 1865 Reserva 2005 89 $20
Solid Maipo terroir, with rich loam, currant paste and coffee flavors backed by an alluring twinge of mint. Long, fleshy finish. A big step up for this historically underperforming producer. Drink now through 2009. 11,300 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2007

Viña Santa Carolina VSC Maipo Valley 2005 89 $30
Dark and chewy, with a slightly grainy structure supporting black cherry, currant, tobacco and bittersweet cocoa notes. Has good grip, with a grilled herb edge on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2011. 300 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
May 15, 2008

Viña Santa Ema Amplus One Cachapoal Valley 2004 89 $19
Dark and winy, with currant and briar flavors backed by notes of bittersweet chocolate, tobacco and olive paste. The finish has a chewy edge, but also solid flesh. Carmenère, Syrah and Carignane. Drink now through 2008. 4,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
May 31, 2007

Viña Santa Ema Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley Reserve 2004 89 $14
A big wine, with beefy black currant, loam and dark licorice flavors. The muscular, fleshy finish shows nice coffee and cedar hints. Very Maipo. Drink now through 2008. 10,000 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
May 15, 2007

Viña Santa Ema Cabernet Sauvignon Cachapoal Valley Amplus 2004 89 $19
Very fresh, with red plum and currant fruit woven with sweet licorice, milk chocolate and spice notes. Juicy and open on the finish. A solid crowd pleaser. Drink now. 5,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
May 31, 2007

Viña Santa Ema Catalina Cachapoal Valley 2003 89 $38
A nice, supple texture, with red currant, loam, toast and grilled herb notes. Smoky finish lets the fruit and herb notes linger. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Cabernet Franc and Carignane. Drink now through 2007. 4,500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

Viña Santa Rita Carmenère Apalta Pehuén 2004 89 $60
Polished style, with lots of mocha and cocoa leading the way for dark plum and currant notes. Plush, smoky finish has nice density. Very modern expression. Well done. Drink now through 2010. 480 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2007

Viña Santa Rita Syrah Maipo Valley Floresta 2004 89 $45
A flashy style, with mocha and warm fig aromas leading the way for dark currant, loam and cocoa powder notes. Solid structure guides the finish. Drink now through 2009. 550 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2008

Viña Santa Rita Triple C Maipo Valley 2005 89 $60
Shows prominent tobacco leaf and mint aromas, along with a solid core of black cherry, roasted vanilla and spice notes. Fresh, juicy finish lets a loamy edge peek in. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère. Drink now through 2010. 2,400 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Maipo Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2008

Viña Seña Shiraz Aconcagua Valley Arboleda 2006 89 $19
There's ample toast, but it's well-integrated into the loam, black licorice, braised fig and cocoa notes. Fleshy and broad on the finish, with solid length. Drink now through 2010. 206 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Viña Garcés Silva Pinot Noir Leyda Valley Amayna 2006 89 $32
Spicy and alluring, with medium-weight finish and enticing notes of crushed cherry and plum fruit, shaved vanilla and sweet earth. Spicy, lingering finish. Drink now through 2010. 3,700 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Aug 31, 2008

Viña Garcés Silva Sauvignon Blanc Leyda Valley Amayna Barrel Fermented 2006 89 $32
Shows an extra-creamy texture, with notes of beeswax and orange blossom followed by lemon verbena and chalk notes on the rich finish. A very good version of the barrel-fermented style. Drink now. 1,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
San Antonio Issue Date:
Jul 31, 2008

Miguel Torres Syrah Curicó Santa Digna Reserva 2003 89 $10
Alluring plum, game, spice, coffee and toast aromas and flavors, with a ripe, plush texture and finish. A superb value. Drink now. 5,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Curicó Issue Date:
Apr 30, 2005

Los Vascos Le Dix Colchagua 2003 89 $44
Ripe and solid, this is holding on nicely despite the late release, with polished raspberry and currant fruit layered with hints of briar, mocha and mineral. Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2008. 1,500 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Nov 30, 2007

Viña Ventisquero Vertice Apalta Vineyards Colchagua Valley 2005 89 $40
Shows a mix of mint, cocoa and blackberry notes, supported by briary tannins. A nice loamy edge checks in on the grippy finish. Carmenère and Syrah. Drink now through 2010. 1,200 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Viña Ventisquero Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Queulat Gran Reserva 2007 89 $18
Nice range, with medium-weight ginger, yellow apple melon, butter and spice flavors kept lively by a fresh citrus underpinning. Nice length. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,700 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Web Only - 2009

Veramonte Primus Casablanca Valley 2003 89 $17
Ripe and smoky, with dark plum, tobacco and cocoa notes followed by plenty of bacony toast on the finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère. Drink now through 2007. 28,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Dec 31, 2005

Veramonte Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Reserve 2003 89 $16
Plump and ripe, with rich Bosc pear, piecrust, honeysuckle and dried pineapple flavors. Long and creamy on the finish. Nicely done. Drink now. 500 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Mar 31, 2005

Veramonte Primus Casablanca Valley 2004 89 $17
Smoky and fleshy, with plum and black cherry notes backed by hints of cocoa, grilled herb and mineral. Fleshy, smoky finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère. Drink now through 2007. 30,000 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Sep 30, 2006

Veramonte Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Reserva 2007 89 $11
Quite ripe, with forward pear, fig and melon flavors backed by a toasty but well-integrated finish. There's solid richness and length, and this is a bit bolder in style than most Casablanca Chardonnays. Drink now through 2010. 20,000 cases imported. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Aconcagua Issue Date:
Feb 28, 2009

Viu Manent Viu 1 Colchagua Valley 2003 89 $50
Solid, ripe, dark plum and raspberry fruit is layered with ambitious mocha, vanilla and coffee-tinged toast. Long, dark finish has a flash of mint, and nice texture despite its amped-up persona. Malbec and 10 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2008. 850 cases made. –JM Country:
Chile Region:
Rapel Issue Date:
Jul 31, 2006

South American Wines - An Independent Guide to the some of the Best Wines from Peru, Argentina & Chile.