3 | Wine | Chile, $10 to $20, 2009

"It offers up an aromatic array of cinnamon, clove, incense, tobacco, black currant, and blackberry. In the glass it reveals layered fruit, spicy flavors, good volume, and excellent balance. This surprisingly rich Merlot can be approached now and will provide pleasure for another 4-5 years. It is an excellent value."

"It reveals a reticent nose which with coaxing displays notions of toast, spice box, violets, black currant, and blackberry. In the glass it has ample fruit, tasty flavors, and decent balance but lacks the breadth and volume for an outstanding rate."

"Ripe red and black fruit aromas mingle with leather and spice, exquisitely balanced by wood notes evoking vanilla and toast."

"Glass-coating opaque purple; smoke, lavender, blueberry, and black berry; tasty flavors, long."

"This is a ripe and moderately toasty white, exhibiting flavors of creamy fig, pear and brioche, followed by a lush finish that shows a lingering note of hazelnut."

"Dark but lively, with blackberry and melted licorice notes laced with briar, tobacco and roasted mesquite. The juicy finish offsets the toast nicely."

"Ruby-red. Spiced dark berries, cherry, minerals and mocha on the nose. Sweet, lush and nicely concentrated, exuding round, seamless flavors of raspberry and cherry compote, lifted by a floral element. Offers good energy and shows more depth and open-knit character than the Alazan; I suspect that many people will prefer this wine to its big sister."

"Dark purple. Pungent dark berry and herb scents show a slight green character. Firm and on the dry side, offering concentrated blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of dark chocolate. I like this wine's structure and focus but would like more give. Finishes with solid grip and a late note of candied licorice. Give this some air if you're planning on drinking it any time soon."