Xplorador by Concha y Toro, Central Valley (Chile) Carménère 2008

 Once mistaken as Merlot (to which it bears a strong resemblance),  has risen to become Chile’s most distinctive varietal wine.  Tank fermented, 60% was aged for five months in stainless steel and the remainder was aged for three months in French oak barrels.  It has a medium-deep purple-red color, roasted coffee and ripe berry aromatics and a dry palate with mineral notes, 13.6% alcohol and light fruit.  At eight bucks, the fact that this wine was aged in French oak, is noteworthy!