Casa Silva, ‘Pintao’ Reserva Carmenere 2012, Chile
Sourced from Casa Silva’s vineyards in the Colchagua Valley, this wine was made with input from M&S’s in-house winemakers. Around 60% of the blend spent six months in French oak barrels. Some Carmeneres can have a stalky, green, herbaceous character that, if overdone, is not my favourite thing in a red wine. But the best are delightful and, as in this wine, exhibit a controlled touch of sappy, green pepper edge much like a good Cabernet Franc that is a delightful component. This also has plenty of black fruit and a touch of graphite, spice and earth. In the mouth it is medium-bodied and very well balanced, that graphite and spice dusted across ripe blackcurrant fruit, giving this grip with the touch of herbal quality also giving edge and energy. A very nice example of the grape in civilised and savoury mode. Watch the video for much more information, including food matching suggestions. £9.99, in 289 Marks & Spencer stores.
