What Wine Where: Chilean Sauvignon Blanc

If you’re in a wine store near the Chile section, it’s hard to ignore all that Sauvignon Blanc. That may be because it’s the second largest wine from Chile after Cabernet Sauvignon and recently, Chilean Sauvignon Blancs have received acclaim from the toughest wine critics. But with all those beautiful labels staring at you, it may be easy to wonder: what’s so great about these wines?

First, they’re super versatile. Fantastic for sipping—a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc can’t be beat, whether with appetizers like chips and guacamole, or with a meal of fresh seafood and vegetables. There’s no doubt these are easy and fun to drink, no matter what time of year.   

Secondly, you can pick up a fabulous bottle at a phenomenally low price, easily under $15, but often under $10. But that price doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing quality. Since the long coastline of Chile provides prime growing conditions, these wines are known for demonstrating the best characteristics the grapes have to offer. In the wine world, it’s known that these bottles provide the ultimate bang for your buck.

Finally, Chilean Sauvignon Blancs are always a hit. Anyone who likes a good white wine will appreciate a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. The best bottles have a nice balance of fruit and acidity and are go-to crowd pleasers for guests and parties. If you ever want to have a white wine on hand in the fridge in case friends stop by, or to bring to someone’s house, it should be this Chilean varietal. Here’s a quick break down of what you need to know.

Label Lingo

Sauvignon Blancs should come from the cooler-climate regions of Chile, often near the ocean. Look for Casablanca Valley, Colchagua Valley, San Antonio, Coastal Aconcagua, Bío Bío, or Limarí on the label.
 
Taste

Crisp and light with flavors of fruits like pineapple, citrus, and green apple. You may even taste minerals, or a green, grassy flavor.   

Parings

White fish, shrimp, fresh vegetables, salads, and fried foods. Try serving it with Pan Seared Snapper with Corn Salsa, Shrimp in Garlic Broth (Camarones al Mojo de Ajo), Green Enchiladas stuffed with Shrimp and Veggies, Orange, Fennel, and Cabrales Salad with Honey Pomegranate Vinaigrette, or Tilapia Veracruz.
 
Recommendations

Try some of our favorites: Veramonte, Cono Sur, Casa Silva, or Casa Julia.
 
Try one with your next dinner and let us know what you think!