Spirit of Wine
Cameron Hughes Lot 95 Meritage, 2007, Valle Central, Chile - Review and Rating
Review: Cameron Hughes is a premium wine negociant, putting together a number of interesting blends. This one, Lot 95, is a combination from Valle Central in Chile, made of 50% cabernet sauvignon, 35% maerlot and 15% carmenere. It is described as a smooth, approachable wine.
Let's see what we find... In the glass, this is inky black, opaque through the middle, becoming transparent only with its magenta/purple rim. Aroma is deep purple and fruity - pretty distinctive - with some fresh plum and helium balloon accents and a clean suggestion of laundry drying on the outdoor clothesline.
Impressive presence on the palate... it comes forward with a deep, full, middle, almost slate-like in style, bringing charcoal-broiled blackberries along with an oaky undertow. Solid, smooth, structure; good tannin support providing a clean, mineral backbone. Finish is of plums and sweet fruit.
Three stars on the Spirit of Wine scale, with a plus for exquisite balance in its intensity. Can definitely age with grace. Awesome value at its exceptionally modest price.