Carmenere

I am a huge fan of Chilean wines! They are amazing and usually a fraction of the price of comparable wines. I've been drinking Chilean Cabs for awhile now, but recently discovered the Carmenere grape at a wine tasting at the Wine Warehouse in Port Orange, FL. Chile is the only significant source of this unique grape. After the tasting, I was on a mission to find more Carmenere, and surprisingly found the MontGras "Reserva" Carmenere, Colchagua Valley, Chile (2007) at Costco for under $10. It is rated at 90 points by Wine Enthusiast--that is a HUGE rating for an under $10 wine! Upon further research, I discovered that it earned a "Best Buy" designation and is#50 in "The Best Buys of 2008" from Wine Enthusiast. But more importantly, you ask, how does it taste?! This wine is phenomenal, and what really stood out to me was the smokiness that was deliciously balanced with the rich and juicy dark fruit. It is soft on the palate and finish with mocha and subtle hints of vanilla. I paired this wine with barbecued ribs, and it was an excellent match!