Carmenere for Everyone!

  Image is courtesy of wine-tastings-guide.com

  When I ask people about Carmenere they typically look at me with puzzled faces.  Carmenere is a grape variety out of France that is considered part of the original six grapes that make up Bordeaux, France which also includes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot.  It is quite rare to find it in France now and most of it has been planted in both Chile and South America.  It is a part of the Cabernet family and its' name stems from the french word crimson (carmin) which relates to the color of leaves before leaf-fall.  Herbaceous notes, bright fruit and spicy flavors are most common in Carmenere and it is usually medium bodied and best drunk younger than other Bordeaux varietals.
 
  Today I have the pleasure of trying another rare gem here at Greenlake Wines.  2006--Casa Silva Reserva Carmenere is without a doubt, delicious.  Roasted peppers, black cherries and vegetal notes marry well on the nose and continue to evolve the longer it sits.  More peppers, dense cherries and sweet figs are present on the palate and a velvety mouthfeel is complimented by super soft tannins and loads of creamy oak flavors.  This wine is 2006 vintage and so as tempting as it may be to skip decanting and start drinking, don't.  Try decanting for several hours before opening and check in every hour or so to see how the nose, palate and finish change.  When you move onto the finish, notes of toasted pepper, oak and more of those black cherries continue on your palate for a smooth and long end to a perfect sip of wine!

  Blue cheeses, salumi and rustic bread are just some of the foods that would work well with this wine.  If you enjoy any of the Bordeaux grapes, it is worth your while to stop by and try a splash of this unique and dreamy wine.  Feel free to visit myself and the rest of our lovely staff here at Greenlake Wines/Seattle Wine Outlet.


Ciao!
Erin

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