The dark ruby-colored 2005 Carmenere-Syrah Reserva is a forward, easy-going, juicy wine with plenty of black cherry and blueberry fruit and no hard edges. Drink it over the next four years. Falernia is located in the remote Elqui Valley where most of the grapes for Pisco production are grown.Importer: Empson USA, Alexandria, VA; (703) 684-0900

No tasting note was given.

Sweet nose of ripe cherries and stony, chemical notes. Elegant, fresh berries, spicy, peppery and juicy. Mineral, minty length.

Falernia hails from the northerly Elqui Valley, and its wines are unconventional and frankly all over the map as far as baseline quality goes. This blend of Carmenere and Syrah is funky and baked, with soft, unctuous fruit and a cooked, herbal taste to it. Candy and raisin are part of the jumbled package, and there’s heat on the finish. A few bright spots but some off points as well.——M.S.(9/1/2009)—— 83