Thursday, 2 May 2013

'On Yer Bike!' Cono Sur Chilean Pinot Noir 2011 Only £5!

Being a keen cyclist and a lover of Pinot Noir, it was only a matter of time before I got my lycra leggings and my helmet on to tuck into a bottle of Cono Sur. After trawling the supermarkets I happened to find this bicycle strewn wine on offer: it's currently only a fiver a bottle from ASDA!

I was surprised at how a wine with such high praise could be so cheap (standard prices range from £7-8 in Sainsbury's, Tesco and Ocado). Even Toby Morrhall, The Wine Society Buyer for South America said he ‘couldn’t believe how good it was’ when he first tried it (you go Toby). Even after one sip I could see where he was coming from.

In the glass it is a clear ruby red with a nose dominated by red berry, specifically: sweet cherries, strawberry and raspberry. On the palate it is smooth and fruity; although very light it has fantastic body and the combination of red fruit and sweetness give this wine a great long lasting finish and that ‘summery feel’ we have been craving for so long here in England. A wine truly designed for a mid-summer's eve tipple after a long ride in the country.

What really makes this wine an absolute steal is its simplicity, balance and velvety red fruit tang; a combination which well exceeds its conservative price. The flavours are elegant and although fruity, there is enough acidity and tannin to stop it becoming jammy; a problem many reasonable priced, warm climate Pinot Noirs have.

To be at its very best however, I would match this with both grilled poultry and fish or even vegetable based dishes. It should still hold its own in the ring with certain red meats, but this delicate wine may be overpowered and lose its subtle charm. So go easy on it.

On the whole, a delicious wine that will get you into gear and the wheels turning.


Matt's Score: 8.5/10

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