As is typical with Carménère, the nose is peculiar but interesting—reticent red berry, subdued by minty, herbal notes and a bit of coffee in the background. A soft, simple, medium-body palate with a glycerin-like texture doesn’t offend but it gives way to harsh bitter herbs on the finish with strong apparent alcohol. Tannins are subdued but the finish is nevertheless too grim. Were it not for the finish this would be a pleasant wine. If you are the kind of drinker who pays no attention after the beverage goes down the hatch, this wine’s for you. But for $5, what do you expect?
Placebo’s “The Bitter End” will put you in the mood for appreciating this wine:
Score: 81
Price: $5
Alc: 13%
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 