Vineyard and winemaking
Casa Santiago Sauvignon Blanc 2021 comes from the Central Valley of Chile, where warm, dry days are tempered by cooler nights and the wider influence of the Andes and Pacific. Well-drained soils and the marked daily temperature range help Sauvignon Blanc retain aromatic definition and acidity.
The grapes are gently pressed and the juice fermented at a controlled temperature in stainless steel. A short period on fine lees adds a little texture, while the absence of oak keeps the emphasis on citrus, orchard fruit and the variety's herbal freshness.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Pale straw-gold with a soft green tint and some natural depth from bottle age.
Nose
Lemon peel and green apple are joined by gooseberry, dried grass and a restrained suggestion of passion fruit.
Palate
Light and brisk, with lime, apple and citrus-pith flavours carried by clean acidity. Bottle development has softened the wine's greener edges, bringing a faint savoury note to the fresh, dry finish.
Food pairing
Serve well chilled with grilled mackerel and gooseberry relish, asparagus and goat's cheese tart, fishcakes with lemon mayonnaise, or a green herb and pea risotto. Its acidity also suits a simple plate of smoked salmon.
Background story
Viña Requingua was established by Santiago Achurra Larraín in 1961 and remains in the Achurra family's hands. From its winery in Curicó, the producer works with vineyards across Chile's diverse Central Valley and has invested steadily in sustainable viticulture and modern, protective winemaking.
Casa Santiago is designed as an accessible introduction to individual grape varieties. This 2021 Sauvignon Blanc is now a mature example of that fresh style; storage and closure may create some bottle variation, so each bottle is best assessed on opening and enjoyed promptly once opened.
