($29, Austral Wines):  This bold blend of Syrah and Carménère, combines attractive elements of each grape.  Together, it’s a harmonious blend of dark fruit, leafy notes — Carménère speaking — and smokey peppery nuances of Syrah.  A suave texture allows you to enjoy this weighty, yet not overdone, wine now.  The spice and acidity in the finish keeps it fresh. As an aside, it’s a joint venture of winemakers from Chile, Felipe Tosso, and Australia, John Duval, perhaps because each has unique experience with their countries’ signature grapes, Carménère and Syrah, respectively.
93 Michael Apstein Feb 20, 2024