Pinto Noir from Chile?

This past weekend I a friend gave us a bottler of Cono Sur Pinot Noir to try. Chile has not to this point been known for their Pinot Noir. But as this region continues to emerge and surprise with new offerings we decided to give it an honest try.

Upon opening the nose seemed very subtle, almost weak. The wine sat open to breathe for 30-45 minutes (not decanted). The first sip again seemed rather thin and didn't offer much depth. This wine was paired with a loin of pork stuffed with apricot, prunes & gala apple. As the meal progressed the wine opened up bit by bit. Notes of cherry, and lightly floral; acidity was evident but not excessive with regards to the Pinot Noir varietal. On the whole this wine was different when compared to the usual offerings from Chile but on its own was not memorable. It is however worthwhile to try as this appears to be the tip of a varietal soon to emerge from South America.

This wine is available at the SAQ (#00874891) Pinot Noir Cono Sur Reserve Valle de Casablanca 2008. Price$16.50.