Wine Spectator: Designated Santa Ema winery as one of the "Top 20 World's Finest Value Brands".  "Life may not come with guarantees, but wine ought to. Armed with the right information, consumers can find not just the odd best-value bottling, but bankable brands�producers that nearly always hit the mark, delivering quality and value with almost flawless consistency from vintage to vintage and sometimes across a range of varieties.  For this values report, we focus on vintners rather than individual bottlings, winnowing through the last 12 months of Wine Spectator reviews�about 12,000 tasting notes�to determine which labels practically guarantee quality in the bottle.  Commit these 20 producers to memory. Think of them as relatively fail-safe options, supplying not only value, but the distinctive flavors and styles of some of the world's finest wine regions."

Winery:  "Santa Ema Vineyard's commitment to make the finest possible wines has led us to the creation of this unique assemblage of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.  Both varieties contribute with a bright, deep ruby red color.  Oak aging adds complexity while preserving the classic fresh red fruit flavours.  Dry plums and blackberries are evident with integrated notes of vanilla and sheer cinnamon.  A concentrated, elegant wine with round tannins and a velvety finish".

Wired for Wine:  With slightly more than half Cabernet, this wine will start the meal like a pro next to a full flavored cheese like Cashel Blue.  Ever had it with lavender honey drizzled on it?  We did and almost had to pass on dinner we ate so much.  If you make it past the cheese, your options are almost endless.  The Merlot side of this delicious blend allows it to work well with less powerful but still hearty meats.  Duck and pork are good options, along with the tried-and-true lamb, beef and steak which traditionally accompany a Cabernet.  Because of the lovely fruit, vanilla and cinnamon tones of this wine, we suggest grilling your meat.  The sharp hit of that charred edge of grilled steak or duck will balance these fruity notes beautifully.  Does anybody else keep a jacket in the kitchen for grilling outside when it's below 40 degrees?  Those of you closer to the equator, wear some shorts for us!

Size:  750 ml
Varietal:  60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot
Ageing:  100% in oak barrels (6 months).
Alcohol:  13.5%
Vintage:  2005
Region:  D.O. Maipo Valley, Isla de Maipo, Chile.