Santa Rita is one of Chile's oldest wineries, founded by Don Domingo Fernandez Concha in 1880. He drew inspiration from French viticulture, and this French influence is still evident in the wines today. The Chardonnay grapes are grown in the Limari Valley. Besides Chardonnay, Syrah is also widely planted here. The soils consist of alluvial deposits with a layer of clay and stones. The climate here is strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean. Days begin with a morning mist that persists into the afternoon. This then gives way to higher temperatures, which are then tempered by a fresh sea breeze. This allows the grapes to not only develop their unique characteristics but also ripen perfectly.
The wine is ultimately made using traditional vinification, with the aim of preserving the fruit. Twenty-five percent of the wine is aged in American and French oak, remaining in contact with the lees. The remaining 75 percent is stored in stainless steel vats to extract maximum fruit expression.
This golden-yellow Chardonnay certainly did well. The aromas leap from the glass, from tropical fruit and grapefruit to beautiful vanilla notes. The palate is fruity with hints of almond. A balanced acidity beautifully balances the sweetness. An elegant, very well-balanced Chardonnay that remains exciting until the lingering finish.
