A tasty organically grown red blend from Chile, the Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva.
A blend of 31% Cabernet Franc, 26% Syrah, 22% Carmenere, 11% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, all organicaly grown, from the Maipo Valley of Chile. 75% of the wine was aged in French oak barrels (20% new) for 12 months, with the remaining 25% aged in stainless steel tanks. The wine has 2.5 g/L of residual sugar.
Sample submitted for review. This wine has an SRP of $20 and is available for as low as $17. It is imported by Vinecrest Co.
From the bottle:
The Gran Reserva is a wine made exclusively from organically certified grapes from Maipo Valley, Chile. The final Red blend is a barrel selection made by the oenologist, which was aged for 12 months in American and French oak barrels. Expressive, spicy and fruity on the nose, featuring red fruit notes such as cherry as well as black fruits such as blackberry. Wild floral notes of myrtle and chamomile characterize the wine as well as spicy white pepper and vanilla hints. Subtle vegetal and mineral notes are also present. On the palate, the wine has an excellent texture with smooth, round tannins leading to an exquisite finish.
Produced and Bottled by Vina San Pedro Tarapaca
14% Alcohol
The 2018 Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva begins with a distinct green pepper (pyrazine) note along with plenty of dark fruit and spice as well.
Thankfully the green pepper note falls much more into the background when tasting. Featuring a smooth mouthfeel, good structure and nice dark fruit with well-integrated spice notes, this is really quite a tasty blend.
It ends with a really excellent, long, lasting and savory finish. It's a fantastic finish and it pushes this wine up to a recommended buy rating.
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