Review: Vina Leyda Sauvignon Blancs – 2022 Reserva and 2021 Coastal Vineyards Garuma
Located in Chile’s Leyda Valley, family-owned and operated Vina Leyda has not only received an aesthetic makeover but has introduced a new range they are calling Coastal Vineyards, highlighting the influence of the Pacific Ocean on their wines. They also produce a wide range of other whites and reds, but today we’re taking a look at two recent Sauvignon Blancs.
2022 Vina Leyda Reserve Sauvignon Blanc – Bright and golden, presenting aromas of grapefruit, lemon zest, and garden herbs. More herbaceous at first, but with a bit of time in the glass, some balance is achieved. On the palate, the citrus notes push forward with a touch of minerality to deliver a crisp and clean finish. Quite versatile in its food pairings, as it works quite well with salmon and salad but also does its job well with a plate of bread and goat cheese. B+ / $15
2021 Vina Leyda Coastal Vineyards “Garuma” Sauvignon Blanc – A result of careful curation from individual vineyard blocks and an 80/20 blend of steel and oak aging, this wine emerges with a lovely note of fresh grapefruit, joined by lime as it slowly warms. Notes of lime and lemon zest take center stage as the grapefruit diminishes on the palate, with nice acidity and a medium-length finish allowing the citrus to deliver a well-rounded experience. The oak influence nods its head in the slightest and adds another element of complexity without being burdensome. A- / $20