LITERALLY, launching their new “Explore to Discover” campaign, the people behind Carmen took to the skies of Kildare recently and thanks to a competition running over a number of weeks on the FFT page, one lucky winner will get to taste the air and a the delights of CARMEN wines in a hot air balloon ride over Adare, Co Limerick. Dawn O’Loughlin of Cappanuke, Cappamore Co Limerick was first out of the hat to win the trip courtesy of the Chilean Wine brand and Edward Dillon and Co wines.
The launch, to coincide with the competition saw Sebastian Labbe, Carmen winemaker, explained that the brand is the oldest in Chile as it dates back to 1850. And as one of the most diversified producers in terms of terroir, their range scans some 50 countries through the export market, Ireland being one that some of the closest link have been established.
Sebastian told of the company’s delight on the discovery some 18 years ago of the once lost Carmenere grape that he says is so “fitting to have been found and rediscovered at their vineyards”.
The grape is now the foundation up their “iconic brand” in the Gran Reserva, Carmenere from the Apalta region.
This premium offering is now linked and sits atop of the Discovery, Reserva, Gran Reserva and Wine Makers ranges that make up the essence and character associated with Carmen wines.
There is a belief in the wine making at the South American vineyards that is poured into every bottle throughout the range. From the entry level Discovery range through to the 100 per cent Carmenere, the stylish aspirational brand oozes every time.
Carmenere – Gran reserva
A host of excellent wines are on offer from the Chilean wine makers and the Carmenere was the one to watch.
At an RRP in the region of €14.99, this wine punches well above its price point and for anyone with a hint of sense will pick this up and judge for themselves.
With slightly sweet spicy notes, the wine is aged in new oak that ironically is deep rooted in style. Think of red peppers as opposed to the taste of green ones and you are just touching on the immediate taste and flavours.
There is a richness and ripeness to the wine and gone is the green leaf hints that can hang on the coat tails of big wines.
To the pepper, add chocolate and a hint of darker fruits. With a generosity the gentle but voluptuous tannins certainly do not offend but remain firm and concentrated.
It’s a classic with a new penetrating approach. Something that can and will deliver quite a surprise to those who let it in.
Keep an eye for stockist of the Reserva version of the Carmenere that retails at €11.99.
