Wine Steal of the Week: Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019

 

Wine Steal of the Week: Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019

Today, we're traveling to Chile and diving into one of my all-time favorite grapes: Carmenere. This week's feature is the Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019, a wine that's not only delicious but also an incredible value at just $5.99 from Grocery Outlet. Let’s uncork this hidden gem and explore its story, flavors, and perfect food pairings.

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The Story Behind Carmenere

Carmenere’s history is as intriguing as its flavor profile. Originally a Bordeaux grape, it was thought to be lost after the phylloxera outbreak in the 1800s. However, it had unknowingly found a new home in Chile, where it was misidentified as Merlot for decades. It wasn’t until the 1990s that DNA testing revealed its true identity, reclaiming Carmenere as the “missing grape of Bordeaux.” This story alone is enough to make any wine lover appreciate this varietal even more.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Carolina Reserva Carmenere 2019 offers a complex bouquet of:

• Blackberry

• Purple plums

• Blueberries

• Herbal greens, including hints of mint and eucalyptus

• Dark chocolate with a high cacao content

• Cardamom and white pepper

• Blackcurrant and black tea

When tasting, these aromas translate beautifully onto the palate. The wine is medium-plus in body with approachable, slightly edgy tannins. It’s well-balanced and boasts a long, complex finish. The flavor journey begins with rich fruit—plums, blackberries, and blueberries—before transitioning to herbal notes and earthy undertones. The finish pops with spice, cardamom, and a touch of black tea. There’s even a subtle stemmy quality that adds an extra layer of depth.

Food Pairings

This Carmenere’s versatility makes it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes. Here are my top recommendations:

• Pork chops

• New York steak

• Pot roast

• Thanksgiving turkey

• Game meats

Its balance and complexity also make it a standout choice for holiday dinners or cozy meals at home.

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Final Thoughts

This wine earns a solid 89+ points from me. While it might not quite reach the lofty 91 points awarded by Wine Enthusiast, its quality and complexity are undeniable, especially at such an affordable price. For just $5.99, this is a steal that’s hard to beat. If you’re a fan of Carmenere or just curious to try something new, I highly recommend picking up a bottle.

Question of the Week

Have you ever tried Carmenere before? If so, what’s your favorite label? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Until next time, cheers and happy sipping! 🍷