Santa Rita, Valle del Maipo (Chile) 2008

This wine takes its name from its blend of three grape varieties whose names begin with the letter ‘C’:  Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere, in a 65-30-5 percent ratio.  That it is so different from a Cabernet Sauvignon wine — lighter in body, silkier in texture and rather delicate in aromas and flavors — speaks to the dominance of Cabernet Franc.  Red fruit and floral notes peek through in the aroma along with blackcurrants; chocolate, spice, and lead-pencil minerality emerge in the flavor.  The wine has elements of prettiness alongside elements of character, and the combination makes the wine distinctive.  Despite its age, this wine is very fresh and lively, appropriate for drinking now or aging further.