Sorry, but minors aren't allowed to enjoy these Chileans.
Chile is known for two things: Pulling men out of deep holes and wine. Since we're not that interested in the former, we sat down with Master Sommelier Fred Dexheimer to talk about the former. We gathered six Chilean wines and tasted them. As you can imagine, he was a bit more insightful than we were.
Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre Chardonnay 2008
Price: $24
Fred Dexheimer: Buckle up for this full throttle styled Chardonnay. The nose is laced with exotic tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango and papaya with a touch of brioche - very enticing. On the palate it’s very round and creamy, offering decadent flavors of tropical fruit, roasted pears, baked apple and honeycomb. Grab some steamed lobster with drawn butter.
Maxim Editor Cory: I usually go for crispier white wines, but this isn't too sweet. I could easily bring this to a summer party and people would think I actually know what I'm talking about.
Casa Silva Reserva Carmenere 2009
Price: $12
Fred Dexheimer: The Casa Silva is a terrific entry into the world of Carmenere. It’s laden with intoxicating aromas of candied violets, incense and bursting with dark fruits, berries and exotic Asian spices. The palate is extremely rich and sexy with ripe blackberries and black cherries blowing up all over. This wine is begging for some down home BBQ’d ribs!
Maxim Editor Cory: I can't pronounce "Carmenere," but luckily I don't have to to drink it. Big reds are a favorite because they can stand up to the classic "guy foods." And this is priced to be a great "house wine". Or "apartment wine" depending on what you call home.
Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Price: $24
Fred Dexheimer: This Cabernet is jamming with aromas of baked cherry pie, juicy raspberry and blackberry fruits and fresh tobacco. On the palate this is spot on Cabernet, full and structured with flavors of ripe red and black fruits and seamlessly integrated oak that flirts with touches of smokiness and Tahitian vanilla. Nothing better than a “Cab and Slab” - your butcher will know what to do...the grill will do the rest.
Maxim Editor Cory: I'm not sure if my butcher is that cool, but I'll try. And I agree. This wine can stand up to any cheese and anything charred.
Haras Character Cabernet Sauvignon-Carmenere 2006
Price: $20
Fred Dexheimer: This red blend has an alluring nose bursting with cooked blackberries, cracked green peppercorns and herbs. The palate is full and threaded with a deep sense of minerality. It’s packed with luscious dark fruits, exotic spices and a wonderfully refreshing finish. This wine is begging for herb crusted lamb chops, but hold the mint sauce!
Maxim Editor Cory: That's funny, I thought this wine was begging for me to have another glass. And who am I to not give this wine what it wants.
Miguel Torres Cordillera 2006 Carinena
Price: $23
Fred Dexheimer: This unique blend is erupting with aromas of chocolate covered cherries and raspberry coulis with notes of red flowers dancing out of the glass. The palate is medium bodied with charming earthy and mineral notes that are layered between the wonderful assemblages of juicy red fruits. This wine is definitely an “Easy Lover!”
Maxim Editor Cory: Did you say juicy fruits? I'm going to need some of those so my boss doesn't notice my vineyeard breath.
Concha y Toro Terrunyo Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Price: $25
Fred Dexheimer: This feisty Sauvignon Blanc jumps out of the glass with aromas of kumquats, jalapeños, and a touch of exotic tropical fruits. The nose is round and powerful. On the palate it’s electrifying, round and persistent with flavors of Asian pear and lime zest. A rocking Sauvignon Blanc. Ceviche is calling!
Maxim Editor Cory: You know what else is calling? Me, off work. How can I concentrate on hot girls after sixglasses of afternoon wine? (Don't answer that.)