Wine Description
This 100% Chardonnay comes from Block #5, the coolest part of the Leyda estate, which is located just 8 miles from the Pacific Ocean. To maximize flavor concentration, yields are kept to about 2.2 pounds of fruit per plant. After undergoing a gentle whole cluster pressing, the juice was chilled down to 46ºF and then gravity clarified. The wine was made using complete oxidative techniques (no sulphur dioxide was added) and left in French oak barrels for 10 months where it fermented naturally, using only the wild strains present in the grapes. Battonage was carried out twice a week for 8 months. Only 20% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation.
Tasting Notes
Ripe citric notes like tangerine, lemon and hazelnuts reveal themselves on the initial nose, before notes of dry wheat and a subtle yeasty character emerge. This Chardonnay is broad and dense on the palate, with a silk and creamy texture and bright mineral acidity at the end. Excellent length with a toasted almond finish.
Reviews
Wine Advocate - Issue #179/October 31, 2008
“The best of the Chardonnays (and the most expensive) is the 2006 Chardonnay Lot 5 Wild Yeasts. It features nicely integrated oak aromas, along with mineral, almonds, white peach, and baked apple scents. Creamy textured, complex, and nicely balanced, the wine has excellent depth and a pure finish. It will offer pleasure over the next three years.”
89 points
International Wine Cellar - March/ April 2008 - Issue 137
The Best New Wines from Chile
"Hazy yellow. Leesy yellow plum and peach aromas are enlivened by lemon zest and dusty minerals. Weighty pit and tropical fruit flavors cover the palate and finish with good breadth and light spiciness."
87 points
Wine Spectator - March 31, 2008
Buying Guide
"A lush, toasty style, with fig, persimmon and brioche notes that stay fresh and lively, with a long, hazelnut-tinged finish. Drink now"
89 points
Decanter - October 2007
Decanter World Wine Awards
"Fresh, pure, varietals aroma - citrus, gooseberry and green apple. Nice concentration of fruit, nice and fresh."
Silver Medal
