“When the legends die, the dreams end; there is no more
greatness” – Tecumseh
The Carménère variety of grape, grown in abundance in Chile,
is today’s focus from the Concha Y Toro winery (www.casillerodeldiablo.com).
Winemaker Marcio Ramirez enhances the legend of the “devil in the cellar” by
producing a deep, dark purple wine that proved to be the favorite of customers
during my latest wine sampling at Market Street in Frisco. The wine steward –
Justin – is fantastic to work with and shoppers at this Market Street enjoy
this store for the wide variety of wines, beers and spirits. Stop by there the
next time you are in Frisco. You’ll love this store and the folks that work
there.
Before describing the great flavors in this varietal, let me
tell you a little about the legend of the cellar. Casillero del Diablo
translates to Cellar of the Devil. The winery’s founder, Don Melchor,
discovered that his workers were over-sampling some of his greatest wines. In
order to discourage this pilfering Señor Melchor started a rumor that the devil
was a permanent resident in his wine cellar. As far-fetched as it sounds, the
workers were scared away from the cellar and the legend of Casillero del Diablo
(as well as the name of the wine label) was born. Take a look at the insignia at the top of the bottle to see the legend of the devil in play!
The Carménère grape lives up to the legend with unique
flavors at a good price point. Prior to drinking, I would recommend that you
decent the wine for at least 30 minutes in a cool room to take advantage of the
robust flavors.
PositiveVines’ Helpful
Definition: Decant – gradually
pour the wine from one container to another to let the wine breath.
If you like red wines but, prefer milder tannins this is the
wine for you. What’s interesting is that
even with milder tannins the wine has a complex set of flavors. Light spices
and dark plum start the tasting journey. Some customers tasted a little
chocolate and all found that there was a smooth smoky finish that rounded out
the experience. I would pair this Carménère
varietal with a good steak or a Spanish dish of Seafood Paella.
The wine averages $10-$12 USD per bottle and makes an
excellent choice for adventurous drinkers who enjoy robust reds. Try it today
and post a comment letting me know what you think!
Come see me tomorrow on July 4th at Market Street
in Plano, TX from 3-6pm as I host a sampling with wines from the Francis Ford
Coppola winery.
Remember to drink what it is that makes you truly happy and always think positively!
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