Casa Marin Sauvignon Gris Estero Vineyard
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. But 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.
Vines are 15 years old and yield per hectare is 3 tons. A mixture of loam, clay and volcanic soils. 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. Harvest Method Grapes are handpicked during 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.
Grapes are manually sorted by hand, leaving behind unwanted green materials. The must is cold macerated for 18 hours then gently pressed for 3 hours. The juice is chilled down to 5 degrees and then racked off the lees. 50 % spontaneous fermentation at 15-18 ° C in French oak barrels 500lt. After fermentation, the wine rests with the lees for about two weeks. The other 50% is fermented in stainless steel vats with commercial yeasts at a lower temperature. No acidity correction or clarification.
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 flavours. Flavours linger on the palate and the fresh acidity ensures a crisp clean impeccable finish.