World Wine 2004 Calina Reserva Merlot

Valle del Maule, Chile Calina Reserva Merlot is our new selection from the Maule Valley of Chile. This wine is estate grown and bottled by Vina Calina. Our Consensus Panel rated it 88 points, representing a great value in Merlot. Jess Jackson founded the winery in 1993 and imported its first wines to the US market in 1995. The wines of Viña Calina are destined to be the ones that place Chile as a first-rate competitor in the world market. Calina Reserva Merlot is ruby red in color with a nose of sweet plums, blackberries, black cherries, vanilla and floral notes. Medium-full in body with light tannins and bright acidity, this red offers flavors of plums, dark cherries, blackberries, vanilla and toast, with a light touch of oak. Soft and smooth, it is well balanced to enjoy over the next 4-5 years. The finish is long and round. Enjoy Calina Reserva Merlot with steak, pizza, pork loin, grilled chicken, pastas and cheeses.