Your first reaction is probably “what the hell is Sauvignon Gris?” Think of it as a good, cool climate Sauvignon Blanc (in its citrusy, tropical, and herbal aromatics) meets a good, cool climate Chardonnay (in its creamy structure and full body), with a lemon-rind finish thrown in for good measure. The cooling breezes from the Pacific Ocean help this wine to retain its vibrant, acidic verve while still appealing to the Chardonnay lovers out there. Savuignon Gris might just be poised as the next “breakout” variety from South America.
On a misty spring morning in the vineyards of Chile’s Leyda Valley I’m glad of my fleece jacket. It’s probably in the low 60s today, cold enough to make me appreciate the piping hot seafood chowderViña Leyda is serving to our group of U.S. writers invited to tour the region.
Starts with an aroma of sunny meadow. Flavors of ripe Granny Smith apple with a kick of ginger. Very fresh with good acidity, would pair well with roasted vegetables or a creamy, cheese-y casserole. This delicate white wine is somewhere in between a Chardonnay and a Sauvignon Blanc, creamier than the latter but lighter than the former.