As kids it was always a treat to find a brand new bike under the Christmas tree. Now that you’re an adult, you probably either a) already have a bike or b) prefer petrol power over pedal power. But whether you ascribe to either camp, there’s a new bike in town that’s worth a ride to your local liquor store.

Chile’s Cono Sur winery has relaunched its introductory range of wines with new a new name and new packaging. The impressive value-for-money factor that has led to the brand’s enormous critical and consumer success remains unchanged.

Now called the “Bicicleta” range, the new label features a bicycle (common to Cono Sur labels past but now more prominent) along with the “Bicicleta” moniker positioned below the Cono Sur winery name. But why a bike?

Turns out that Cono Sur is big on sustainable viticultural practices and environmental conservatism. In fact, it was the first winery in the world to be CarbonNeutral Delivery® certified and it supports a number of environmental charities including Canada’s Clean Air Championships. Oh, and in the spirit of putting it’s money where its labels are, so to speak, the Cono Sur vineyard management team uses bicycles to get from point Chard to point Pinot (and several other varietal points in between).

Depending on where you’re located, you’ll be able to find various members of the Bicicleta range, including Pinot Noir, Viognier, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Carmenere, Pinot Gris and Malbec. We recently had the opportunity to sample the four varietals currently listed in Ontario and were impressed with both the quality and price point (sub $10.00).

Cono Sur “Bicicleta” Viognier 2011
Aromas of peach, rose petal, and orange marmalade follow through to a viscous mouthfeel and flavours of apricot, melon, and tropical fruit. Clean and crisp on the finish.

Cono Sur “Bicicleta” Pinot Noir 2011
Finding a drinkable Pinot Noir under $20 can be a challenge. Finding one under $10 is pretty much a Christmas miracle. No, it’s not Romanée-Conti, but it’s a pretty tasty wine for the money. Fresh raspberry, cedar, earth, leather and cinnamon on the nose. Mid-weight with juicy berry, spice, and dried herb flavours. Chill slightly.

Cono Sur “Bicicleta” Merlot 2011
Smoky dark plum on the nose with some chocolate, mint, black currant and mild vanilla adding complexity. Supple and smooth on the palate with mocha, black cherry and herbal nuances.

Cono Sur “Bicicleta” Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Cassis, Asian spices, licorice, and black olive aromas segue into flavours suggesting black raspberry and a hint of black pepper. Well-structured with no sharp edges and a long, clean finish.