Given its herbal-vegetal characteristics, there are limits on how far Carmenere can go on its own, but this example from the Maule Valley is truly exceptional by any standard. The green pepper comes first, along with black pepper and faint wisps of smoke, but it's a deep, enveloping, multi-faceted note, and while the savoury elements are the primary ones, the rich and luscious fruit that emerges along with them -- currant, cherry, plum, cassis -- provides amazing balance and complexity. With a silky texture, lip-smacking finish, and excellent length, this is a great wine and a great value.