Carmen Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon

Although Viña Carmen has been around since 1850, it was reborn in 1987 when it was acquired by Claro Group.  Today, their main vineyards are in Maipo Valley, but they also have vineyards in Rapel, Casablanca and Curicó Valley.  And they are one of the top producers in Chile.

This wine continues the trend we’ve found of Chilean wines delivering exceptional quality for the price.

Although it’s labeled as Cabernet Sauvignon, technically it’s only 85% Cab, with 10% Syrah and 5% Merlot.  This is a well-oaked, but not over-oaked wine, with 80% of it aged in a combination of French and American oak for 10 months.

There are some interesting things going on in the nose of this wine with some nice herbal and spice characteristics, like mint, tobacco and cedar.  The palate has good acidity, tannins and fruit.  In fact, the tannins are superb.  Intense cassis and blackberry flavors make the palate rich.  It has good structure, good complexity, and it’s just a really good wine.  I highly recommend it.

Wine: Carmen Reserva
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2006
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 88
Price: $16.00

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Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.