Legado Reserva Chardonnay 2008

Type:

Alcohol:

14%

Region:

Limari, Chile

The Legado line of wines from De Martino showcase a specific varietal and their cultivation in the best terroirs of Chile resulting in wines that express the true character of each region.

Vineyards:

Covering 13.2 hectares, the Quebrada Seca vineyard has an elevation of 229 meters and an eastern/western exposure. The vines, planted at a density of 4000 vines/hectare, benefit from the unique climatic conditions of the Limari Valley. A cooling fog creeps into the valley from the Pacific Ocean in the afternoons and, with less than 4 inches of rainfall per year, drip irrigation had to be implemented. As a result, the vines developed deep roots in the alluvial soil high in calcium and carbonate.

Technical Data:

  • pH: 3.38
  • Residual Sugar: 1.49 grams/liter
  • Acidity: 6.35 grams/liter
  • Dry Extract: 25.20 grams/liter

Winemaking:

Manually harvested in late March, the bunches were further sorted and selected upon arrival at the winery. Fermentation took place over a span of 7-9 days at 18-21°C. Only partial (10%) malolactic fermentation occurred. The wine was aged in new French oak barriques of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd use for 11 months, followed by an additional 4-6 months in bottle after it was filtered, fined, and refrigerated.

Tasting Notes:

An elegant, fruity bouquet expresses notes of grapefuit and banana. Plesant mineral aromas are present as well On the palate, it is full-flavored and fresh with excellent minerality and acidity. A creamy component coats the palate through the lingering finish.

Food Pairings:

Perfectly suited to accompany shellfish, such as lobster and crabs, as well as meaty seafood dishes, such as trout and salmon. It also pairs well with pastas topped with creamy sauces.

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Fact Sheet

Label (Hi-Res)

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Label (Lo-Res)

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Shelf Talker

Wine Spectator - 90 pts.

Shelf Talker

Wine Enthusiast - 90 pts. - Best Buy

Wine Spectator

Score: 90

Ripe and fleshy, but pure and focused, with gorgeous Jonagold apple, quince, chamomile and sweetened butter notes that stay lively on the full-bodied finish. A fresh apple note lingers nicely. Drink now.

Food & Wine Wine Guide 2011

De Martino’s Legado line highlights the terroir of various regions. The lovely Limari Valley Chardonnay displays star fruit, apple and pear flavors underlined by chalky minerals and vibrant acidity. 2 (of 3) Stars / $

Wine Enthusiast

Score: 90

Composed and showing no overwrought oak or tropical fruit aromas that so often plague Chilean Chardonnay. A smooth operator, with toasty apple and mineral aromas leading to a ripe but cleansing palate and finish. This is like winemaker Marcelo Retamal’s favorite child; with proper guidance it is growing better every year. Best overall Chardonnay to [...]