The 2009 Barrel Select Carmenere was aged in French oak for 8 months. It is a glass-coating opaque purple with an enticing nose of herbs, spices, lavender, and blueberry. It opens in the glass to reveal excellent depth, concentration, and length for its humble price. Drink this very good value over the next 2-3 years. Santa Ema has been a reliable source of value priced wines for a number of years. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; www.tgicimporters.com

The spectrum of varietal aromas is here: saline, olive, forest floor, tea and red and black fruits. Weighty and round in the mouth, with good feel and full blackberry flavors supported by creamy oak and vanilla. Juicy and red enough on the finish, where a pop of acidity registers. ——M.S.(12/1/2011)—— 87