($12, Vineyard Brands): Until recently, the Carmenère grape was confused and harvested with Merlot in Chile. Like Merlot, Carmenère traces its origins to Bordeaux. Although it was once called “Chilean Merlot,” it ripens a week or two later than Merlot and when harvested with Merlot, it gives unripe, vegetal flavors. Santa Rita clearly knows the difference between the two grapes and waited until the Carmenère was fully ripe for this luscious wine. With earthy, mineral-infused flavors, it is a plush, balanced wine at a great price. 91 Michael Apstein Oct 25, 2005