The story of Odjfell Vineyards began about 25 years ago when Norwegian ship owner Dan Odfjell acquired property in the Maipo Valley of Chile.  However, the planting of vineyards didn’t begin until about 15 years ago.  They now have vineyards in a few different Chilean appellations.

In addition to wine production, they also breed Norwegian Fjord Ponies on the Odfjell property.  Hence the pony image on the label.

This Carménère is labeled as being from “Central Valley” but if you look at the wine regions in Chile you’ll find that there is no Central Valley.  In fact, this wine is 50% from Maipo and 50% from Colchagua.  The term “Central Valley” is a generalization, rather than a specific wine region.  Because the grapes in this wine come from two different regions it must be categorized as Central Valley.

Dark fruits, blackberry and currant are prevalent on the nose of this wine and a little musty mushroom aroma makes it interesting.  There’s a touch of green pepper too, which is common in Carménère and indicative that the fruit wasn’t fully ripe at harvest.  Carménère is a late-ripening variety, which can be problematic for producers.  Personally, I don’t mind a little bit of the green pepper aroma.  I think it can add interest and character to a wine, but too much of it can be a problem.  In this wine, I don’t think it’s too strong.  On the palate, the fruit is dark and rich.  Smooth tannins give a nice mouth feel.  The finish brings a touch of black pepper, which I always like.

Wine: Odfjell Armador
Variety: Carménère
Vintage: 2007
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: 86
Price: $13.00

Find Odfjell Armador Carménère with Snooth

Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.