25/10/2009 – Chono Reserva Syrah 2006

Chono Reserva Syrah 2006, Chile
This little wine from the cool, northerly Elqui Valley is made by maestro Alvaro Espinoza, and for me represents one of the best – and best value – Syrahs to have appeared so far out of South America. It has a bright, peppery and spicy nose, with keen, juicy red fruit and a wild, garrigue and game edge. The palate is just fabulous – lovely fruit, thick, rich and sweet but riven with clear acidity and deliciously ripe tannins. A beautifully expressive and balanced wine, and a great bargain. £7.55