Concha y Toro ‘Xplorador’ Carmenére 2009
Valle Central, Chile $9.95 (177816) 13.5% alcohol
Recently released in the LCBO, this is a valued-priced, medium-bodied wine with appealing aromas of sweet, spicy dark fruit. Approachable now with soft tannin and fresh acidity, the dark pit and berry fruit replays on the palate with brawny notes of dark toast that carry through on the mid-length finish. This delivers good value, earning its final ½ star because of it; it’s an ideal choice for grilled meats, lasagna or meat pizza. (Susan Desjardins)


Concha y Toro ‘Casillera del Diablo’ Carmenére 2009
Rapel Valley, Chile $12.95 (620666) 13.5% alcohol
An opaque, carmine color with intense aromas of plums and spiced black berries, this wine is dry, medium-full bodied and richly fruity. Displaying a velvety texture, it’s dry with ripe tannin and fresh acidity framing the sweet, ripe fruit. Notes of espresso, spice and pepper enliven the palate and a hint of dark chocolate lingers on the finish. Well crafted and well priced. (Susan Desjardins)