2008 Caliterra Tributo Boldo Block Carmenere

Carmenere is ideally matched to Chile's terroir, so long as viticulturalists can manage the vines appropriately. Like others from the Sauvignon family, the variety possesses high concentrations of methoxypyrazines - compounds which can produce overpowering herbaceous or 'green' flavours. Humans are particularly sensitive to this compound, detectable at levels as low as 3 parts per trillion. Too much makes for a flawed wine. Fruit ripeness is key. The Colchagua Valley had a warm 2007-2008 season. High temperatures recorded in January, February and March quickened the pace of ripening, leading to an early harvest. 2009 was much the same. These are vintages in which hints of methoxypyrazine actually add a complexing dried leaf / tobacco characteristic to Carmenere's spicy fruit notes. It's an unmistakable and unique combination of flavours that's prompted critics internationally to conclude of Chilean Carmenère: "When they're good, there's really nothing else quite like it".

Opaque purple black colour with purple crimson red hue. The nose displays lifted notes of black cherry, lackcurrant and cedar with a hint of tobacco emerging as an end note. The palate is very youthful but displays excellent concentration and depth for its price point. Flavours of inky blackcurrant, dark cherry and cedar are followed by some spicy tobacco like characters on the back palate. Very fine grained, slightly dry but well balanced tannin structure. Aftertaste of inky blackcurrant and spicy tobacco.
Cellar 2-3 years (2012-2013).
Alc 13.5%