This elegant wine opens with a bouquet of dark berry, toast and mint. This example of Carmenère shows the variety can yield fruit for dark, suave, well-balanced reds. The oak is nicely integrated and there’s a long reprise of the opening aromas on the finish. Editors’ Choice.
— W.E.
(6/1/2001)
A notable lack of greenness makes this one of the best 1998 Chilean Merlots we’ve tasted. Classic varietal flavors of plum, cocoa and dark berries are supported by good acidity and even tannins. This has structure, depth and a touch of class. Best Buy.
— W.E.
(6/1/2001)
Dense and chocolaty in the nose, and then even deeper in the body, with plum, black cherry and coffee. This is one of many modern Carmenères that can only help carry the torch for the grape. It’s a good wine worthy of discovery.
— M.S.
(3/1/2002)
This Cabernet has a lean profile and is Bordeaux-like in weight and texture, but there’s lots of dark raspberry and tobacco aromas and flavors. Hints of mint and licorice add a touch of complexity. Finishes with a slight herbal note and even tannins.
— W.E.
(6/1/2001)
This is less refined than the Gran Reserva, but not less pleasurable, and it delivers a lot for the price. The dark berry, tobacco and spice aromas and flavors are solid. The palate shows nice texture, and full tannins mark the finish. This is a great barbeque red. Best Buy.
— W.E.
(6/1/2001)
Enjoy this tasty, clean Merlot for it’s roundness and well-applied lashing of oak. What you get here—without frills—is lots of plum and vanilla in the front and some smoke and coffee on the finish.
— M.S.
(3/1/2002)
Smooth and richly aromatic, with pear and apple notes to go with the full allotment of oak and butter. This is Bisquertt’s attempt at a top-shelf Chard, and it isn’t a bad effort. The palate deals plenty of pear and mango flavors, while the finish is warm and oaky. Well made, yet a bit flat. Drink this year for best results. Best Buy.
— M.S.
(7/1/2003)
This is a great house pour for fans of Chilean Merlot with its consistent fruit, soft acidity and low tannins. On the nose and palate, a core of sweet, Red Delicious apple is accented by dry leather, toasty vanilla and dried herbs. Simple, but well crafted.
— K.F.
(7/1/2003)