Two impressive Chileans

May 26th, 2008 | Category: Wine News

I used to be a bit of a Chile sceptic. Since my January visit, though, I’ve seen plenty of reasons for optimism about Chilean wine. Yes, there’s still a bit of a problem with greenness in reds, and a bit more diversity and complexity in the higher-end wines would be welcomed. And I additionally think the country needs more boutique wineries, pushing the boundaries of quality on a small scale. But there’s a dynamism to the current Chilean wine scene that suggests that in five years date, the picture will be a very different one.

Tonight two interesting wines, both from UK supermarket Marks & Spencer. Not perfect, but encouragingly good, and considering the prices, better than nearly all other new world countries can do at that level.

Secano Pinot Noir 2007 Leyda Valley
Made for Marks & Spencer by Vina Leyda. that is a really vibrant Pinot Noir with lovely pure,

sappy cherry and raspberry fruit, complemented by a subtle spicy, medicinal note that remains in the background. It’s perhaps a little too green and herbal, but the fresh, bright fruit here has a lovely purity to it. It’s a delightfully fresh wine that tastes like Pinot. Very primary, but quite joyful. 88/100 (£6.99 Marks & Spencer)

Corralillo Chardonnay Reserve 2005 San Antonio
This biodynamic white comes from Matetic, one of Chile’s most exciting producers. It’s nearly overpowering, with intense flavours of nuts, vanilla, figs, citrus fruits and spice. Super-rich and very ripe, that wine nearly has too much flavour for its own good. It really comes into its own with richly flavoured food, where the weight of the wine isn’t quite so obvious. It would additionally work quite well with cheese. A big, complex Chardonnay for current drinking, and not for the timid. 90/100 (£9.99 Marks & Spencer)

Original post by Jamie

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