The 2006 Tributo Edicion Limitada Carmenere (60%)-Malbec (40%) was barrel-fermented and aged for 14 months in French and American oak. It exhibits a nose of pain grille, pencil lead, spice box, black currant, and blackberry. This leads to a medium to full-bodied wine with layered fruit, savory black fruit flavors, and enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. It will be at its best from 2010 to 2018. Caliterra’s less expensive Reserva lineup did not move me but the Tribute portfolio was excellent. Each of the wines spent 14 months in French and American oak.Importer: A.V. Brands, Inc., Columbia, MD; tel. (410) 884-9463; www.caliterra.cl

Very nicely done, with full-force berry and plum balancing off mild vegetal/herbal aromas. The palate is ripe, round and textured, with alluring plum, berry, leather and vanilla flavors. It folds in cinnamon and pepper on the finish to bring everything full circle, while keeping the herbal element under control; 60% Carmenere and 40% Malbec.——M.S.(11/15/2008)—— 89