Today I am tasting the 2007 Reserva Merlot by Santa Carolina from Chile. Vina Santa Carolina was founded in 1875. This Bordeaux like blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Carmenere and 5% Syrah is aged in oak barrels for 9 months and I found it for under $10.
Color
The color is a nice dark red.
Aroma
I can smell the oak right off the bat. Almost like a cedar smell to it. There is also dark fruit on the nose. Blackberry and plum.
Flavor
The attack is very good with fruit. Blackberries, black currant and black cherries are present. The mid-palate is very strong with cherries and vanilla present. The finish is long. There is a little oak on the finish and some spice. This Merlot has a nice body and mouth feel. It is excellent by itself, but also should complement bleu cheese, pork and chicken dishes.
Rating
I really like this wine and highly recommend you try it. It is one of the best Merlots I’ve had recently. I rate it 90 points.
Have you tried any Santa Carolina wines?
