Although I publicly declared my ride on the wagon a while back–I went for like 70 + days without the vino—it doesn’t mean I was going to abstain from the pleasures for all eternity. All things in moderation…
So, since this is Jennifer’s Review, Let’s Wine About It! I am going to share a review of one of my favorite wines…Carménère. Chile produces the vast majority of Carménère wines available. It is wonderful as it is, and is also used as a blending grape–commonly with Cabernet Sauvignon.
The way I remember to go to the Chile section at the wine store is that I remember this wine tastes like it has chili peppers in it. It’s that peppery-ness that makes it unique.
There are several Carménère wines I love, but the one I am drinking right now is Arenal Carménère (2010), from Bodego Vina, Peralillo, Peralillo Chile. (The label has a cute line drawing of a woman carrying a basket of grapes on her head.) Cost: $10.
This deep crimson red, is smoky & spicy with earthy notes; the tannins are soft and it’s not too sweet. (And it doesn’t give me a headache or keep me up in the middle of the night.) I love this wine. It goes great with spicy Indian dishes, red meat, or even tacos. Or even anything, actually.
I have found several bottles of Carménère under $10 that are all great!
Do you like Carménère? What is one of your faves?
Arenal Carménère is imported by Southern Wine Group.
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I have given wine up for Lent. I feel so liberated. Is that weird? I feel calmer without it. This wine sounds yummy. I am going to need to add it to the list to try when I am back to drinking it. This seems like a great winter wine. You always know the best wines in that price point.
Good for you! Yeah, life is sweet without wine. Life is sweet with wine. It was nice when I didn’t drink for a long stretch. It’s challenging when it comes to being social though. All things in moderation…except moderation, yeah? Thanks for reading this post. YOU always know good wines. What’s one you recommend?
I love Chilean Cabs! I don’t know if we get this one in Ontario, but I’m going to keep my eyes open for it.
About the cutting down on wine: life’s too short to give up things we love, so enjoy… in moderation!
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I’m going to have to add this one to my list now Alyson! Sounds great!
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It is nice! Do you ever drink Carmenere?
I’m gonna have to try some Chilean Cabs. What’s one you recommend–in the $10 range?
I tried this one back in 2010 … liked it then – not sure of the new vintages? The one I had was 2008 PKNT. Was surprised by the taste for under $10. Again … that was 2 years ago:
http://jenniferreviews.com/2010/03/wine-wednesday-pknt-chile-time/
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