Chardonnay, you surely know. And the wines of Chile too. But if you associate the country with very ripe, oaky white wines, it’s time to revisit it.
As elsewhere in the world, many winegrowers are looking for more freshness and transparency in their wines. “Costa” refers to wines from vineyards near the coast, under the refreshing influence of the Pacific; conditions very different from those prevailing in the hot central valley. This Chardonnay from Errazuriz comes from vineyards 12 km from the ocean. It offers ripe fruit, with a certain richness on the palate, but also remains fresh and tonic. Aromas of pear, apple, butter and almond mingle with spicy and toasted notes from a very well integrated oak.
Seared scallops with citrus zest, smoked salmon pasta, squash risotto.
Errazuriz Chardonnay Aconcagua Costa 2021, $23.15 (12531394), 13%
Aging: 2 or 3 years