Casa Marin, Sauvignon Gris, Estero Vineyard, San Antonio Valley, Chile, 2023

Producer Profile

When the first vintage of the Sauvignon Blanc was released, it was heralded by Parker as the best white wine made in South America. A moment of great satisfaction for Maria Luz Marin who had to fight to be allowed to plant her vineyards in Lo Abarca, only 5km from the sea.

This is a lady who doesn't take 'no' for an answer and has a career littered with great achievements and numerous firsts. Maria Luz's vision and determination to coax world class wines from these coastal vineyards has proved Chile is capable of producing wine that can take on the world's best.

Viticulture

Vines are around 15 years old planted on a mixture of loam, clay and volcanic soils. A coastal climate, 4km away from the ocean with average temperatures of 15°C. In summer temperatures are not higher than 28°C. Morning fogs and frosts occur in spring and early summer. No rain during growing season. Grapes are handpicked during the last week of March/ first week of April. The timing is very important for this variety, harvested the day before or the day after the perfect ripeness, will be reflected in the outcome of the wine.

Winemaking

Fermentation with added yeast starts in stainless steel tanks. Before fermentation is finished, the wine is transfered to used 5500 litre French oak barrels were it stays for 6 months.

Oak Ageing

Time: 6 Months
Type: French Oak - 500 Litres
% wine oaked: 40
% new oak: None

Tasting Note

Sauvignon Gris, or in French known as Fié. A favourite among many chefs and sommeliers around the world. Powerful floral and spicy aromas with a touch of pink grapefruit. The palate is ripe and mouth filling, with a touch of smoky French oak, floral characters and fresh grape, asparagus flavours. Flavours linger on the palate and the fresh acidity ensures a crisp clean impeccable finish.

Food Matching

Spicy Singaporean lemon sole, spicy falafels, prawn pad thai.