Don Cayetano Carmenere, 2006, Colchagua, Chile, 39199, 6 bottles

Brought to Chile in the 19th century Carmenere was mistaken for Merlot until the 1990's due to its rarity. Nearly extinct is its native Bordeaux it narrowly avoided being lost forever. Fortunately the abundance of sunshine in Colchagua brings out the best in this soft dark grape especially in these expert hands. Renowned for its quality Luis Felipe Edwards' estate is set in a small valley in Colchagua. Abudent sunshine tempered by cool refreshing nights make the climate here perfect for their old vines. The cooler longer 2006 growing season - due to the influence of La Ni?a the counteract to El Ni?o - has given us wines of great aromatic intensity and richness. Seasoned with Petit Verdot another Bordeaux native giving a dose of spice and tannin this wine has deep ruby colour. Velvety full of ripe red berry fruits creamy toffee notes with a hint of spice. Enjoy with garlic-roasted lamb spicy empanadas (a Chilean version of pasties!) or simply it on its own!