As we’ve learned, Chile’s coastal wine country is heavily influenced by the Humboldt Current. Here are three excellent examples of the Chardonnay being produced along Chile’s coast.
2023 Miguel Torres Cordillera de los Andes Chardonnay ($20)
Miguel Torres, driven by a quest for exceptional wine production, discovered that the Limarí Valley is where Chardonnay takes on a unique and distinctive character. This Chardonnay is crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes, which undergo fermentation in French oak barrels before being aged in French oak barrels for seven months. The wine exhibits a pale straw color and enticing floral notes on the nose. On the palate, it reveals creamy citrus flavors accompanied by a refreshing acidity, culminating in a soft and smooth finish. (ABV: 13.5%, Total Acidity: 6.45 g/L, pH: 3.25, Residual Sugar: 3.7 g/L)
2021 Floresta Chardonnay ($20)
Floresta Chardonnay is also from the Limarí Valley where the soils consist of alluvial deposits with a first stratum of clay texture and a second of clay-loam with stones. Calcium carbonate deposits are found between the strata. Fermentation took place in Stainless Steel tanks and then the wine was transferred to barrels where it was aged on lees (surlie aged) with periodic battonage for 3-5 months. Approximately 30% of the wine undergoes malolactic conversion. The wine is kept on lees for 10 months, for a total of 12 months in French oak prior to bottling. It is pale gold in color with notable minerality on the nose. On the palate it has notes of green apple, pineapple, bright acidity and finishes with just a touch of tartness. (ABV: 13.1%, TA: 6.65 g/L, pH: 3.04, RS: 2.19 g/L)
2020 Montes Alpha Chardonnay ($24)
The vineyards that produce Montes Alpha Chardonnay are situated in the Aconcagua Costa region. The proximity of the vines to the Pacific Ocean and the significant impact of the ocean breezes create ideal grape-growing conditions. Montes Alpha is a blend of two Chardonnay clones from three distinct regions. Approximately 35% of the wine underwent fermentation in barrels with varying degrees of toasting, while 25% underwent malolactic conversion. A total of 35% of the wine was barrel-aged for 12 months in French oak of the first, second, and third use.
This Chardonnay exhibits a medium gold color with minerality on the nose. On the palate, it presents flavors of green apple and lime, with moderate acidity and a bright finish. (ABV: 14%, TA: 3.53 g/L, pH: 3.21, RS: 2.7 g/L)
This week, we’re shining a spotlight on three fantastic Chardonnays from Chile’s coastal regions. These wines are not only delicious but also incredibly affordable, making them a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. So, grab a glass and let’s toast to these amazing Chilian wines! Cheers!
Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Media Samples Provided by Miquel Torres, Viña Santa Rita, Montes and Master the World