Cousino-Macul Sauvignon Gris Isidora 2022

ripe carambola, fresh pineapple, papaya, and honey

Sauvignon Gris is a very interesting grape, being a genetic mutation of Sauvignon Blanc that has color in the skins of the grapes. It is a variety that is becoming increasingly popular around the world but for decades most of the commercial examples have been produced in Chile. However, DNA research now shows that much of the Sauvignon Gris growing in Chile is actually Sauvignonasse, or Tocai Friulano. Whatever grape it is, this wine is delicious and the story is incredibly compelling as well.

The Cousino-Macul winery was established in 1856 by Luis Cousiño and his wife Isadora. Luis was passionate about French wines and purchased many of his cuttings from Chateau Martillac in the Pessac-Léognan region of Bordeaux. The original planting of Sauvignon Gris is traced to that purchase.

For this wine, all of the grapes are hand picked into small baskets to prevent skin damage. At the winery, they are destemmed and quickly pressed to prevent any color from leaching into the juice. Try not to serve this wine too cold, pull it out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving. In the mouth, it starts a bit viscous with a moderate sense of fruit restrained by vivid acid. This is a perfect wine to serve with grilled fish that are a bit more oily, such as swordfish or an herb marinated roast chicken.