The Legend of Casillero del Diablo!
“When the legends die, the dreams end; there is no more greatness” – Tecumseh
The Carménère variety of grape, grown in abundance in Chile, is today’s focus from the Concha Y Toro winery (www.casillerodeldiablo.com). Winemaker Marcio Ramirez enhances the legend of the “devil in the cellar” by producing a deep, dark purple wine that proved to be the favorite of customers during my latest wine sampling at Market Street in Frisco. The wine steward – Justin – is fantastic to work with and shoppers at this Market Street enjoy this store for the wide variety of wines, beers and spirits. Stop by there the next time you are in Frisco. You’ll love this store and the folks that work there.
Before describing the great flavors in this varietal, let me tell you a little about the legend of the cellar. Casillero del Diablo translates to Cellar of the Devil. The winery’s founder, Don Melchor, discovered that his workers were over-sampling some of his greatest wines. In order to discourage this pilfering Señor Melchor started a rumor that the devil was a permanent resident in his wine cellar. As far-fetched as it sounds, the workers were scared away from the cellar and the legend of Casillero del Diablo (as well as the name of the wine label) was born. Take a look at the insignia at the top of the bottle to see the legend of the devil in play!
The Carménère grape lives up to the legend with unique flavors at a good price point. Prior to drinking, I would recommend that you decent the wine for at least 30 minutes in a cool room to take advantage of the robust flavors.
PositiveVines’ Helpful Definition: Decant – gradually pour the wine from one container to another to let the wine breath.
If you like red wines but, prefer milder tannins this is the wine for you. What’s interesting is that even with milder tannins the wine has a complex set of flavors. Light spices and dark plum start the tasting journey. Some customers tasted a little chocolate and all found that there was a smooth smoky finish that rounded out the experience. I would pair this Carménère varietal with a good steak or a Spanish dish of Seafood Paella.
The wine averages $10-$12 USD per bottle and makes an excellent choice for adventurous drinkers who enjoy robust reds. Try it today and post a comment letting me know what you think!
Come see me tomorrow on July 4th at Market Street in Plano, TX from 3-6pm as I host a sampling with wines from the Francis Ford Coppola winery.