The 2008 Carmenere (60%) – Syrah (40%) Reserva saw 40% of the wine aged in barrel for 6 months. It displays a nose of spice box, dried herbs, floral notes, blackberry, and blueberry. Soft, fruity, and forward on the palate, it is a very good value meant for drinking over the next 2-3 years. Vina Falernia is located in the sparsely populated northern region of Elqui where Pisco grapes previously dominated.Importer: Empson USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Black olive, meat juice, baked plum, earth, black pepper and savoury nose. Creamy, milk chocolate texture. Quite a different style with a savoury, earthy character. Alc: 14.5%.