A top Chilean

Carrying on with the cheering properties of wine, we have a top wine from Chilean maker Miguel Torres.  Miguel Torres produces wines at all entry points, always good value for money and, in my experience, not a lemon in the bunch.

Name         Miguel Torres Cordilera

Vintage       2008

Country      Chile

Region       Curico Valley

Grape        Chardonnay (85%), Viognier (15%)

% Alc        13.5%

Price         £11.99

Source       Hoults 

This wine is one of my favourites it is a good Chardonnay blend (with a small (15%) hit of Viognier) in the the style of a good Burgundy (obviously without the Viognier) at this age it is still probably a little young, can't wait to cellar some; bring on my birthday in 2015.) 

Smooth oak on the nose, roundness, aniseed, lychee and a little honey. Maybe there is even banana. Once it's in your mouth (and the nose makes you want to get it there), you get lime, richness, zing and all the complexity that a cooler climate can deliver above and beyond those flashy over cooked Aussie ones. 

It's the acid and strong herbality (new word) and structure on the 'swallow' that gives it away as a banker for cellaring, but currently excellent with food.  Be assured; that will melt away, and balance out with a ripening of the fruit contained here.  There is a case coming my way, and it will be a long hard wait.

Chile is often the 'go to' for our VFM, which is often connected with a weekday, sub £7 price point. But thinking of VFM in the round, as true 'bang for your buck', and you'll see that this wine is as good as old world examples of at least twice the price.  Have a go, it's excellent value for money. It's very good now at the money, and will likely be awesome. Get all Delia, and plan Xmas (3 years) ahead.