Wine Unfiltered

The fine people at Concha Y Toro Xplorador were kind enough to send some samples of the Xplorador line of wines and was glad to get it! I am a large and in charge fan of Concha in general and didn’t know about this line. The prices are beyond incredible and was hoping to find a gem in there somewhere. Luckily I did.

2008 Concha Y Toro Xplorador Sauvignon Blanc: $5.99-$7.99

Pale, straw yellow with mineral notes and hint of wet stone. Definitely not a green Sauvignon Blanc. Lots of grapefruit, yellow citrus, under ripe pineapple. Crisp, light refreshing, slightly mouth watering. A summer wine all the way. 13.5% alcohol.

Rating: d6

2008 Concha Y Toro Xplorador Malbec: $5.99-$7.99

A deep, dark, dry full bodied wine with aromas of fruity plum, figs, hay, cherries and red peppers. Filled with lively sharp fruit. But it’s still a very tight wine. I would be curious if it would blossom if put down for a year. For the price, probably be worth a test. 13.5% alcohol.

Rating: d4

2008 Concha Y Toro Xplorador Carmenere: $5.99-$7.99

The Carmenere grape is a great alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and emits the qualities of both types of wine. Carmenere was originally a French grape but disease almost wiped it out in the 1800’s. It was brought to Chile in the 1850’s and has been there ever since.

This 13.5% medium full bodied Carmenere is a dark, purple-ruby powerhouse. Aromatic with notes of sweet spices, creamy wood, staining black fruit, espresso powder, aromatic herbs, and maybe the slightest, far reaching hint of fresh pink rose petals. Flavors of smooth fruit, round tannins and a hint of dry black figs and mocha. Aerating only enhances. An easy drinking wine without heaviness but still has substantial body. Serve just below room temperature.

Rating: d8

I have to say out of the three, this is the standout and super excellent buy for the price. If you blind tasted this, I’d be very shocked if you guessed how much it actually cost.

There is always smart labeling on Concha Y Toro wines in general. Simple notes, well designed, clear percentages if a blend. Speaking of percentages, at 13.5%, their wines are always reasonable for food.

Bottom line: if you see the Xplorador Carmenere, don’t grab a bottle. Grab a case.