Primus 2005 Carmenère Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (Chile) - There is definitely a post in my future dedicated entirely to the Carmenère grape varietal. A member of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape family, it's an ancient clone that is being planted more in more in Chile, France and Italy, with smaller lots in California and Washington. In the Primus, the Carmenère is immediately evident in the smoke, earth and pepper of the wine - like a burning field of pepper plants on the nose. Not an elegant grape at its core, the Carmenère varietal comes to make a point and it certainly does in the Primus. Smoke, leather, anise and plum all come together in a huge wine with a strong lingering finish.What you should do: whether it's this wine or another Carmenère blend, this is a must try. The unique qualities that Carmenère brings to a blend are a bit off-putting at first, but then unmistakable once you know what to look for. I will definitely buy another bottle of the Primus and, at $11, feels like an easy experiment.
My rating: 88
La Braccesca 2004 Vino Noble di Montepulciano (Italy) - had this wine at a birthday dinner in Washington a few weeks back and it definitely had me at hello. Cherry, spice and some coffee notes make this an interesting blend, with crisp and lively acidity, nicely integrated tannins and a monstrous finish. This is a remarkable Tuscan wine at a reasonable price. So good, in fact, the Wine Advocate gave it a 91 and Wine Spectator gave it a 90.What you should do: BUY THIS IN BULK! I loved this wine, especially with the huge bowl of pasta that I ate along with it. At under $20, this may be one of the last Tuscan finds like this.
My rating: 90
Three Rivers 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley (Washington) - With a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec and a strong recommendation from my wife and her best friend, I went in with high expectations on this one...and those expectations were definitely met. Beautiful black cherry, cassis, a touch of earth and just the right amount of acidity, this wine was a nicely balanced use of Washington fruit. The finish was strong and lasted a while - I can almost still remember it lingering in my mouth.What you should do: BUY IT, especially if you're a fan of Washington wines. At around $18, it definitely drinks about $10 above it's price and the 2004 vintage is running out (I'll let you know how the 2005 vintage is once I open that bottle).
My rating: 89
Gadget
I can't wait to try the Primus! Great review!
thanks. i really liked it and am so intrigued by carmenere. unfortunately, cost plus, where i got it, only had a half bottle, so if you find somewhere that has 750's, let me know.