Chilean Cool Climate Wines

Time once again for an online tasting hosted by the folks at Wines of Chile. This time the focus was on cool climate white wines, and we were joined by representatives in New York as well as the winemakers down in Chile. In addition to the wines, participating bloggers got a citrus salt blend and a customized pepper blend. The best part was the Olave extra virgin olive oil from Chile, which is rich and buttery and bright. I've been drizzling it on salads and vegetables all month.

Wines of Chile has been engaging regional chefs and food suppliers for the last few tastings, and it's always fun. I have so many neat spice blends from South America.

2011 Casa Silva Cool Coast Sauvignon Blanc
Colchaugua Valley
100% Sauvignon Blanc
$25, 13% abv.
Green bell pepper and lemon on the nose, tart but well balanced with a crisp herbal finish.

2011 Los Vascos Sauvignon Blanc
Casablanca Valley
100% Sauvignon Blanc
$14, 13.5% abv.
Light and refreshing, good acidity, touch of lime peel flavor.

2011 Cono Sur Visión Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Casablanca Valley
100% Sauvignon Blanc
$15, 13% abv.
Green and brassy, lemon peel. Firm acidity.

2011 Viña Casablanca Nimbus Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Casablanca Valley
100% Sauvignon Blanc
$13, 13.8% abv.
White grapefruit pith, green pepper. Fragrant and tart.

2011 Veramonte Ritual Sauvignon Blanc
Casablanca Valley
100% Sauvignon Blanc
$18, 13.5% abv.
Smooth and sophisticated. Rich and mild.

2010 Santa Rita Medalla Real Chardonnay
Leyda Valley
100% Chardonnay
$18, 14% abv.
A medium-strength Chard with peach flavors and a smooth finish.

2010 De Martino Legado Reserva Chardonnay
Limarí Valley
100% Chardonnay
$16, 13.5% abv.
Pear nector and floral notes, light and refreshing.

2009 Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay
Limarí Valley
100% Chardonnay
$19, 14% abv.
Big ripe peach start with a slight buttered popcorn aftertaste. Strong acidity.

Note: These wines were received as samples.