Carménère

Once mistaken for Merlot, Carmenère has found its true voice in Chile. Its signature is dark fruit—blackberry, plum, and black cherry—layered with green bell pepper, cigar box, and an inky depth. Softer than Cabernet but spicier than Merlot, it carries supple tannins and a velvety texture. When well-made, it marries ripe generosity with a herbal edge, never overbearing yet always distinctive. The best examples balance its natural greenness with polished fruit, making it a uniquely expressive varietal. At its best, Carmenère is both silky and structured, with a lingering, smoky finish.