J. Bouchon traces its roots back to the late 1800s, when young viticulturist Emile Bouchon left Bordeaux and settled in Chile. Today, the fourth generation—Julio Bouchon and his children—continues the family’s winemaking legacy in the Maule Valley. Committed to sustainability, the winery uses traditional methods such as horse-drawn plowing and dry farming to protect their historic vineyards. The 2021 Canto Sur is comprised of 50% Carmenere, 25% Carignan and 25% País, with some vines over 100 years old. It is aged for four months in concrete tanks, leading to a fresh, juicy and utterly quaffable style of wine. Pomegranate and cranberry notes, framed by dried oregano and tarragon, dominate this wine, along with zippy acidity. Try chilling down this wine a bit before serving. Overall, this is an incredible value for a food-friendly, vibrant young red wine.

Another great bargain wine that needs recognition. If you like wines from the Rhone, you should consider this wine. The nose tends toward a brighter style with Bing cherries, minerals and a floral bouquet. In the mouth, it comes off as a bit more rich with darker red fruits, light spice and a nicely balanced finish that has minerals but, is not mineral-driven. This is a wine that will be suitable for pretty much every meal.