Pale yellow color; citrus, lemon zest, mango, grapefruit, papaya, pineapple, fig, flowers, saline-minerality on the nose and palate.
Dry; no tannins, very crisp acidity (3.2 pH). Light body. Made with certified organic grapes from the Valle Hermoso (“Beautiful Valley”) six miles from the Pacific Ocean in Chile. Quintessential is a U.S. importer, marketer, and distributor. The wine was made by Matetic Vineyards in Chile; EQ stands for “equilibrio”—Spanish for “balance.” The Matetic vineyard earned Demeter biodynamic certification in 2013. 13.5% ABV
The website notes: “The year 1892 saw the emigration of the first generation of the Matetic family from what is now known as modern-day Croatia to the southernmost Chilean town of Puntas Arenas. Almost 100 hundred years later, the world started to become aware of Matetic Vineyards. And so, the story begins. In 1999, planted between the San Antonio and Casablanca Valleys of Chile in the Rosario Valley, Matetic Vineyards was born to the world. This coastal property occupies over 200 planted acres that take advantage of ocean influences and the unique climate that comes along with it. With an eye towards sustainability, Matetic moved to organics beginning in 2002, now certified organic by CERES GmbH, and following biodynamic practices. One year later, in 2003, the technologically advanced Matetic winery was built, featuring gravity flow and natural and sustainable materials.”
Quintessential Wines Matetic EQ Coastal Sauvignon Blanc, Valle de Casablanca, Chile 2020 flaunts citrus on the initial attack, then becomes rounder and softer as it evolves in your glass and your mouth. Fruity with evolving fineness and pleasing touch of salinity-minerality—the vineyard is just six miles from the Pacific Ocean. Delivers an attractive alternative to New Zealand sauv blanc. Pair with shellfish—oysters, scallops. Seafood—grilled, blackened halibut, salmon, mackerel; lean fish—cod, sea bass, haddock, sole. Shrimp. Chicken salad. Pasta with pesto or tomato sauce. Light meats—chicken, turkey. Vegetarian fare—fresh salads with vinaigrettes; spring vegetables—peas, artichokes. Cheese—goat cheese is the classic pairing with sauv blanc; feta, brie, gruyère; chevre; sharp cheddar. $17-22
