Maray Carmenere 2009, Limari Valley

Enjoyed with Sara, Alvaro and Elisabete, 03/02/11. 14% ABV, c. £8 in Majestic. A new Chilean wine (for me) from the Tabali stable. I love the Carmenere grape (the original Merlot, if some reports are to be believed) which Chile has made its own. Many lovely wines are now being made in the cool Limari Valley in the north of Chile and this one represents excellent value for money. Deep, youthful purple colour. Blackberries and provencale herbs on the nose, pepper and coffee in the mouth, with silky tannins. Fruit-forward for sure but a great balance. A slightly short finish but I am not complaining at the price. From 2011, 16/20