2015 Ventisquero Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva ($15)

Chile has been producing wine for more than 400 years. But, in the past 30 years has really made great strides in producing highly notable wines. And the Maipo Valley has become Chile's red wine country.

This Chilean wine from the Maipo Valley is produced by Ventisquero from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah. The grapes underwent a pre-fermentation low-temperature maceration in order to bring out the maximum color and aromas from the grapes. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks and then the wine was aged in French oak for 10 months, followed by another 4 months in the bottle before release.

While Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are typically big, full-bodied wines, this one actually has some delicate red-fruit flavors of strawberry and raspberry but the finish yields the dark-fruit flavors of blackcurrants and blueberries along with hints of vanilla and chocolate from its oak aging.

If Cabernet's are typically too big and bold for you, give this one a try. At 13% ABV, I found it to be medium-bodied with lots of bright fruit flavors. And, it's a great value too. Be sure to check this one out!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Donna White Communications