Cono Sur, Casablanca Valley (Chile) Pinot Noir El Triángulo Estate “20 Barrels” 2011

($25, Vineyard Brands): Cono Sur’s “20 Barrels” bottling represents their best lots — a reserve bottling, essentially.  This Pinot Noir is bigger and more concentrated than their superb value regular bottling without going over to the dark side.  They’ve managed a seamless combination of fruit and savory notes enrobed in glossy tannins.  A subtle bitterness in the finish makes it all the more enjoyable.  I hate the heavy bottle, but love the contents.
92 Michael Apstein Oct 29, 2013