Vinas Chilenas $3 Sauvignon Blanc 2010 Chile Trader Joes

Delightful nose of grapefruit, mango and bursting with bananas. I thought I might need to add an umbrella to my glass. The first couple sips were a bit on the harsh side, very acidic and overly floral. After it had time to be swirled around a bit and mellowed out, it became very likable. The mango and bananas really stand out after you get past the strong bitter floral notes. Drinkable, but not stellar.

I give this wine a 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.

$2 Gato Negro 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Chile Albertsons

First off, I absolutely adore that this bottle has a screw top. It has already been proven that a cork adds nothing to a bottle of wine and I don't have to worry about the stopper being short enough to fit into the bottom rack of the fridge door. Okay, enough about closures and on to the opening. After a quick pour and swirl, I went in for a sniff and it was oh-so-fruity with lovely pears, sweet oranges and touch of lemonade. The first sip was very nicely packed with pears, melons and green apple. Not to complex, but very consistent. This one is very yummy, and a bit on the sweeter side of the spectrum. This would be a fantastic pairing with flip-flops and swimming pool.

I give this wine a 4 out of 5 stars.

$3 Carménère Panilonco 2005 Chile Trader Joes

Here's an interesting tidbit- Even though they may not be very popular, Carménère grapes are considered part of original six noble grapes of Bordeaux, France. Now that we have that out of the way, on to tasting it! A nice, peppery nose greets me with some notes of rich, smoky, meatiness. The flavor is strong, grassy, and bright. A quick finish wrapped it up tightly. The first taste was so quick I have to go in for another. The next few tastes brought out some bell pepper-y flavors, but all in all, the first taste is what you get. It's a simple, dry red. Not bad, though.

I give it 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.


_{Chelsie's Tastings Home Page}