2005 Veramonte Primus

This is probably one of the best reds out of Chile for under $20. The story of this Bordeaux blend goes all the way back to Bordeaux in the 1800s, when a wave of French immigrants were setting off to the new world to try and make their fortunes. Being French, they weren't going anywhere without their wine, and knowing that they were headed to an unknown world, the only way to ensure that there would be wine there was to bring the vines to grow it themselves. So off they went to Chile with vines representing the best of Bordeaux packed in wet sawdust and paper, to ensure the vines survived the trip across the Atlantic. The Veramonte Primus is a blend of Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The best grapes from the top vineyard parcels are carefully sorted, destemmed, and fermented separately before blending and aging for 2 years in French Oak barrels, about 50% of which are new each year. This dark ruby red wine has aromas of chocolate, cherry and vanilla followed by a palate that seems to burst in your mouth with flavors of chocolate covered cherries summed up by a dusty tannic finish.
$19/750ml

Rating: 9.1 out of 10