This Carménère is from the Maule Valley in Chile’s Central Valley Region. The Maule Valley, unlike many Chilean wine producing regions, does not have any maritime influences. Maule Carménère is reputed to be spicy with aromatic intensity.
So what does the Chateau Perbal 2018 Carménère have in store for us?
Aromatics: Telltale Carménère aromas of cherry and raspberry predominating with a little blackberry nibbling on the edge.
Palate: As on the nose plenty of raspberry and cherry with a small bit of pomegranate, red plum and smoke. Moderate tannins. Very light on its feet yet refreshing and vibrant. Moderately long finish.
Personality: Many of my Carménère Chilean brothers are more intense and richer than I am. It does not make them better than me. I am just different. I am lighter and you might find me a bit fresher.
Cellaring: Might improve up to end of 2024 but will hold until mid 2026.
Food match: For those favouring the Portuguese national dish of Bachalau this wine is a match made in heaven. Red wine with fish. Hard to beat me on that dish!
Price: $19.95 (Ontario).
RKS 2023 Wine Rating: 90/100. Jamessuckling.com 91/100.
In a nutshell: Another can’t go wrong Carménère from Chile. A light version if you like. A great sipper. A red wine that can be easily enjoyed in the summer.
(Chateau Perbal Family Selection 2018 Carménère Maule, Chateau Perbal, Pirque, Chile, Liquor Control Board of Ontario # 27578, 750 mL, 14%)
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