We have delighted in the quality of many Chilean wines, but Pinot Noir from Chile is still rather unusual. Chile is 2700 miles long and has a nearly complete climatic spectrum for grape growing and winemaking. The combination of latitude with coastal and montane influences allows vintners to plant in places most appropriate for a given grape variety. The dry growing season allows for even ripening of the grapes and the cool air flow allows for long hang times and flavor development.

Pinot Noir thrives in cooler climates and there are several coastal valleys in Chile that are proving to be excellent sites for this notoriously finicky grape. We were truly impressed with the Pinot from Cono Sur (the "southern cone" - a reference to the pointed southern tip of the continent). Their 2007 Pinot is a wonderfully complex expression of the Pinot Noir at an absolute bargain price for its quality. Cono Sur is an innovative venture begun in 1993 with the intent to express the best Chilean terroir using modern viticultural and vinification techniques.

The '07 Cono Sur Pinot Noir has an impressive bouquet, with bold cherry and raspberry fruit enhanced by hints of violets, cinnamon, black pepper, and the gamey, earthy nuance so prized by lovers of fine Pinot Noir. Bright and youthful on the palate, the wine delights the taste buds with its vibrant cherry fruit flavors and backed by subtleties of black pepper, raspberry, earth, and smoky spice. Well structured, the 2007 Cono Sur Pinot Noir can cellar for 1-2 years, but the wine is so enchanting you'll be tempted to drink it right away.

The vivid fruit and zesty flavors of the 2007 Cono Sur Pinot Noir can complement many different recipes. It will be a superb accompaniment for many chicken and duck dishes as well as a good match for salmon and many full-flavored seafood preparations. Although quite forward and enjoyable now, the '07 Cono Sur Pinot Noir will cellar well for another 1-2 years. It's rare to find a Pinot Noir this good at anywhere near this price. Stock up now and enjoy.