Santa Carolina Specialties Dry Farming Carignan 2010

The Mediterranean variety carignan was planted in the south of Chile a long time ago and has only recently come to prominence. This wine is made from grapes from two vineyards in the Cauquenes Valley; one close to the sea and the other more inland. It is a beautiful fruity vibrant wine that has a very Italian feel. Expect aromas of bright pure blackberry and black cherry fruit with lemon, pepper, rosemary and basil notes. The elegant palate shows lots of fruit but it's vibrant juicy and quite beckoning, such that one can easily take another sip. Though very fruity it is well structured with a dry lemony finish. Its depth of flavour, energy and vibrancy are very appealing, as is the price. Try with lamb cutlets or a juicy steak. Score - 91. (Steve Thurlow, winealign.com, Oct. 7, 2014)