90
points
La Playa 2007 Axel Syrah (Colchagua Valley)
-
$20
A big and meaty Syrah that separates itself from the competition via inviting aromas of blackberry and lemon peel. It’s even better in the mouth, where dark, smoky, generous black-fruit flavors rule. Finishes classy, with coffee, chocolate and fig notes. Robust and rewarding Syrah from Chile.
— M.S.
(2/1/2011)
90
points
La Playa 2005 Claret Block Selection Reserve Red (Colchagua Valley)
-
$15
The days of the 90-point Best Buy are growing short, so rejoice over this excellent blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Petit Verdot. The nose hits with solid mint, coconut, blackberry and fudge aromas, while the palate is ripe, snappy, alert and full of tasty blackberry, cherry and chocolate. It’s clean as can be, with immaculate freshness given its price…
— M.S.
(5/1/2009)
89
points
La Playa 2005 Axel Syrah (Colchagua Valley)
-
$20
Perfumed and floral on the nose, but also spicy and slightly foresty, which is apropos for Syrah. Flavors of black olive, brandied cherry and blackberry are perfectly nice, and the feel is mildly creamy and rich but still pointed. Finishes with toasty notes of pepper, brown sugar and woodspice.
— M.S.
(12/31/2008)
89
points
La Playa 2007 Axel Cabernet Sauvignon (Colchagua Valley)
-
$20
Solid from front to back. The nose is your normal mix of cassis, blackberry, latex glove and licorice nibs, while the palate runs hard and condensed, with ripe black fruit flavors. A little clacky and tough on the tongue and cheeks, but true as you can ask for from a Colchagua Cabernet.
— M.S.
(12/1/2010)