Following an extensive ‘blind’ tasting of Chilean wines earlier this year, we have picked out seven first-rate whites, including some fine Chardonnay from Limarí, a flor-aged Semillon, and a brand new multi-regional top-end blend.
LA CANTERA Producer: Casa Del Bosque Region: Casablanca Valley Vintage: 2023 Grape varieties: 100% Sauvignon Blanc ABV: 13.5% Approx. retail price: £15 Score: 92 This wine has pungent, clean, inviting Sauvignon Blanc aromatics from capsicum to riper notes of passionfruit. The palate has a similar mix of ripe tropical fruit, almost a touch of sweetness, then green crunchy cool-climate characters, particularly green pepper and some pea shoot, with a long, clean, zesty, citrusy finish, and a touch of chalk too. Intensely-flavoured and refreshing, with some texture, richness, but no alcohol warmth. LEYDA COASTAL VINEYARDS SAUVIGNON BLANC Producer:Viña Leyda Region: Leyda Valley Vintage: 2022 Grape varieties: 100% Sauvignon Blanc ABV: 13%, Approx. retail price: £17 Score: 91 A nose of pear but also some tinned greens, with crunchy capsicum too. The palate is clean, green and citric, with a mix of pear, then lemongrass, pea shoot, lime zest, and touch of grapefruit pith too. Really intense and persistent, with a cool and slightly tart character. For those who like high-acid whites with green bell pepper power – and a nettle-like note. BOYA SAUVIGNON BLANC Producer: Garces Silva Region: Leyda Valley Vintage: 2023 Grape varieties: 100% Sauvignon Blanc ABV: 12.5% Approx. retail price: £11 Score: 90 Pungent Sauvignon
This Article was originally published on The Drink Business - Wine
