Party Red

Santa Ema, Carmenere 2003 ($6) -- Cachapoal Valley, Chile. This is marked down from $9 so that they can clear the warehouse for the new vintage. The Carmenere in Chile was long thought to be Merlot, until they did some DNA research. This wine has a good fruit nose, smooth (Merlot-like) flavors and a finish. I think this is an outstanding value as a party wine when you don't want to serve Crane Lake or Woodbridge! If your guests ask what Carmenere is, just tell them it's Chilean Merlot! This wine would also make a good mid-week table wine with anything from pizza to spahgetti. At $65 a case with the 10% discount, it's a no brainer!