Cono Sur

'Cono Sur' means 'Southern Cone'. No Mildew, no phyloxerra, few pests. An insulated country that makes organic viticulture easier. The cooler regions of Chile do have more difficulty with organic growning.
Cono Sur is the 2nd largest Chilean brand at 4.5M cases. 450,000cs of Pinot Noir makes Cono Sur the largest producer of Pinot in South America. Cono Sur is 17yrs old. 40% Organic, 60% Integrated Vineyard Mgmt. Oil and garlic around vines to turn away 'burrito' bug. use of geese against pests as well.
Generally very good QPR on these wines, to which I may have previously not given enough credit. Particularly, the Bicycle Riesling and both Cabernets.

• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Riesling Bicicleta Bío-Bío Valley

  Chile, Bío-Bío Valley

  Lime pith aromas, lively, 'dry'. From Baval and Bio Bio. The later is dry farmed and is the furthest south vine growing valley in Chile. Great value at under $10.

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• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Sauvignon Blanc Organic

  Chile, San Antonio Valley

  No malo. Ripe green thoughts. Lime, pepper, guava. A little green pepper spice. From San Antonio Valley which is warmer than Casablanca, which is closer to the coast,

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• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Chardonnay Organic

  Chile, San Antonio Valley

  Again, San Antonio Valley. In the cooler regions, like Casablanca Valley, organic is more difficult Nice, easy, stone fruit, mineral. 5% second fill French oak.

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• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Pinot Noir Organic

  Chile, Rapel Valley, Colchagua Valley

  Moderate saw dust aromas. darker fruit, just shy of black fruit. palate also shows some moderate oak impression. Rather well done @ $10.99.

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• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Cabernet Sauvignon

  Chile, Rapel Valley, Colchagua Valley

  more herb oil aromas than the Cab/Carm blend. Maipo fruit with Colchagua and Malauve. again great QPR at $9-10.

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• 2011 Viña Cono Sur Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenère Organically Grown

  Chile, Rapel Valley, Colchagua Valley

  60% Cabernet from the Central Valley, 40% Carmenere from Central Slopes. Brighter and tangy red fruit aromas. WA state appeal to this wine. Where did all that oak and sandlewood from previous vintages go? Thank you.

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