Co-op Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

This is terrific. All of the things I often find hard work about Chilean cabernet (too much of everything, thick, spoofulated, tannic) do not apply here.

This is lighter and less overtly sweet than your average Chilean cabernet (which is a good thing.)

In fact it has the level of concentration and body I expect from a top-notch Bordeaux, though of course not the class, and it does lack complexity and a finish. However, though it's a simple wine, there is real purity and freshness here... qualities often woefully lacking in Chilean cabernet at 3x the price.

So a great little wine for £4.99, and if you must have a good cheap cabernet-based wine this is the one. It has backbone along with its simple virtues, and that is what makes a Bordeaux a Bordeaux, even when it isn't a Bordeaux. Anyhow, although pretty simple and straightforward, I'm still giving it 7/10 for enjoyment value.

Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 7/10 £4.99 The Co-op.