Luis Felipe Edwards 2007 Reserva Chardonnay - 85pts

Luis Felipe Edwards 2007 Reserva Chardonnay (Vallee De Colchagua) Rapel - Chile

Availability: Private wine stores

Cost: $15-17

Alcohol: 13.5%

Date Tasted: September 24th, 2009

Tasting Notes: This is a Chardonnay to match with food at a busy dinner party where the wine has time to sit in the glass and open up. This is not a stand-alone sipper.

This pale-gold Chardonnay offers medium intensity aromas of melon, pineapple, butter and river minerals. On the palate this dry wine offers flavours of tropical fruits, slate and citrus with toasted-oak notes. Medium-plus acid adds crispness to the medium-length finish and makes it a nice match for creme-based sauces on pasta or protein. Drink 2009-2010. - LC

Luis Felipe Edwards 2006 Reserva Malbec - 89pts

Luis Felipe Edwards 2006 Reserva Malbec (Puquillay Valley) Rapel - Chile

Availability: Private wine stores

Cost: $15-17

Alcohol: 14%

Date Tasted: October 28th, 2009

Tasting Notes: Argentina is known for making many top Malbecs, especially in the Mendoza region. Across the Andes from Mendoza is the Chilean wine region called Rapel which is carving a slice of the Malbec market and doing a fine job.

This Malbec, from 70 year-old vines, has a lot of character and presents exceptional value for the price. Inky-purple core with a ruby rim, this full-bodied Chilean charmer offers an intense nose of red-berry and spice aromas . Medium-plus acidity and tannins with flavours of plums, nibs and cassis. Drink 2009-2011. - LC