1. Viu Manent Secreto Carmenere, Colchagua (Caves de Pyrene)
Probably my favourite of the lot. A bit of Pinotage-style burnt rubber on the nose. Dark fruit, chocolate and spices on the palate (although no burnt rubber luckily). 8 months in oak. 15% other grape varieties (not revealed - is this the secreto?)
2. Mayu Syrah Reserva, Elqui (Guy Anderson Wines)
Zingy red fruit. 14% abv.
3. Falerina Syrah Reserva, Elqui (Great Western Wines)
Big, rich, dark, luxuriant, velvety. 14% abv.
The best "commercial" wine I tasted was Cono Sur 20 Barrels Merlot, Colchagua & Maipo - very fruit forward so will appeal to the commercial palate, but has enough balance and structure to stand on its own as a good wine (whereas the Cab Sauv doesn't quite get there).
I came away with the impression that there were as many interesting wines from "new" areas such as Leyda and Elqui as from the more established Central Valley regions. A good sign for Chilean wine I would say...
