If there was any doubt about the quality and substance of Chilean and Argentinean wines, 2008 should have erased that perception; the Wine Spectator's #1 crowned wine of 2008 being the Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta Colchagua Valley 2005, a simply gorgeous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Carmenere.  A single bottle runs around $85-90 but is discounted if purchased in volume (i.e., half or full case) if you can locate it at a local wine retailer.  As of this writing, there is a very limited quantity available in the wine shop at Pastiche while the inventory received at Total Wines and BevMo has come and gone.  Clearly, there are locals who are aware of and yearning for high quality international varietals.  Adding to the glory, Chile added the #12 WS wine of the year with its Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Puento Alto Don Melchor 2005 (~$75)

Casa Lapostolle produces several good to very good quality wines at affordable prices and occasional outstanding varietals such as the #1 WS wine.  The reds include a pure Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah and the whites Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.  See our new video segment that highlights the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley Cuvee Alexander Apalta Vineyard.  For the price (~$25), it is one wonderful wine.  Concha y Toro also has a history of producing good to very good and sometimes outstanding wines year after year.  They offer a multitude of varietals Cabernet, Shiraz, Merlot and an occasional Carmenere as well as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, many of which are very affordable.