Tried a unique, almost strange Chilean Cab today, "Domus Aurea," named after Nero's Palace (Golden House) in Imperial Rome. This was a fascinating and odd one, and seemed to be a staff favorite at the wine bar. Probably because it's so different.
Very strong minty element on both the nose and the palette. Some nice cherry fruit, herbs, a little bit of tobacco. Quite light in texture and mouthfeel, this is not a "heavy" unctuous wine at all (the tasintg had Marquis Phillips, too. what a rich bomb of a wine!) This is a case where the intellectual enjoyment, the sheer quirkiness, made me interested-this is not another Napa Cab or Bordeaux style blend at all. Rather pricey for Chilean wine ($40) so the QPR is not as good. Still, I bought a bottle for sharing with wine loving friends. Not sure I would open this one for casual drinkers.
Someone posted a comment or thread on how some wines appeal more to the intellect than the palette, per se. This is one of them, although it's not a wine I dislike at all. it's just very....odd.