Natura Syrah 2005 $11

Valle Colchagua, Chile

This wine purchase was on a complete whim! Walking through the grocery store I saw the bottle display, which I had not recognized before. After a short read to the back of the bottle, the appealing price and the 2 ribeye steaks picked out from the butcher, this bottle was destined for dinner tonight.

At first smell the aromas had a smoky-woody scent followed by plum and ripe black fruit. The first taste was a wonderful, smooth sensation of chocolate, blackberries and a mild woody-oak flavor. With soft tannins and a slightly dry finish a hint of pepper rounded out the wine on my palate. It paired great with the grilled steaks at dinner time.

The label states this was a “Special Lot – Made With Organically Grown Grapes.” Maybe this is the difference in its great flavors. I can’t say I’ve always had this good of an experience in trying something completely unknown. I did taste the 2008 Carmenere by Natura after this and found it to be quite nice as well. (See EPCOT Food & Wine posting)

For the price point and now that I’ve tried this, I’d definitely recommend it.