Carménère Gran Reserva, Viña Falernia

This is a distinctive expression of carmenere from Elqui, with 60% of the fruit dried in the appassimento method. It comes across as more spicy than herbaceous, with an evolved character to the fruit. Expect a combination of black pepper, stewed black currants and blackberries, and generous coconut tinged American oak. It doesn't quite come into balance, but there's much to like at this price for those seeking a bold, full bodied, value priced red for barbeque season.