Calcu, Colchagua Valley (Chile) Cabernet Franc 2018

 When it comes to quality red wines for the price, the smart money is on Chile. There are many wineries in the game, but Calcu is another one to consider based upon its recent vintages.  Calcu does offer high end, limited production wines, but this Cabernet Franc, much like the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, is hard to beat in the under $20 division.  It was aged in French barriques for one year, and displays pure varietal character without any of the green peppercorn, overly herbal notes that plague many Cab Francs.  Dark garnet, the wine opens quickly to offer ripe black fruit with pleasing notes of mint, spice and dried herbs.  Full-bodied, it is concentrated with flavors of tobacco, plum and spices.  In the finish, it has plenty of flesh and good structure with slightly briary tannins.  Best paired with beef and richly sauced main courses.