From the Maule Valley this D.O. Valle Pencahue Carménère is new to the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. Follow the lead of Elvis and return to sender!
Aromatics: Strawberry, stewed rhubarb, blackberry, charcoal and some raspberry jam.
Palate: Moderate tannins initially but augment quickly into a firm grip. Bereft of any real fruit. Almost astringent. Given the excellent Carménère tried in the past 3 months this one is entirely disappointing and forgettable.
Personality: Like many a politician I start off very friendly with good aromatics and a firm handshake. But get to know me on the palate and regrettably have little of interest after the aromatics are done. I will be most happy if you return me to the store where they will send me home and we can try again. I am sorry for fooling “savvy buyers” from the Liquor Control Board of Ontario.
Cellaring: Don’t bother.
Food match: Don’t bother.
Price: $18.95 (Ontario).
In a nutshell: Keep this nut in its shell and don’t open.
RKS 2023 Wine Rating: 56/100
(Viña del Pedregal, Kidia Reserve Carménère 2018, D.O. Valle Pencahue, Viña del Pedregal, Vila Alegre de Loncomilla, Chile, 750 mL, 14%).
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