Carménère grapes are grown outside the capital of Santiago. Once thought to be extinct in the 1800’s this Chilean specialty was rediscovered in the 1990’s and is often referred to as “Merlot on steroids” with a very distinctive flavor. Whereas Merlot is kind of low key and soft, Carménère has a sharp spiciness that is not really found in Merlot. The grape is named so for its crimson color – it is really dark. It tends to be medium bodied with smoky, spicy, and earthy aromas. Has to be on your “must try” list. Matches well with smoked, grilled or roasted meats, chicken, pork, lamb, beef and veal.