Santa Rita Colección Privada Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Central Valley, Chile 75cl

Vina Santa Rita, based at the historic Alto Jahuel estate in the Maipo Valley, is one of Chile’s most recognised producers, with a history stretching back to 1880. Its Colección Privada Reserva range brings the house style to easy, everyday wines, and this Sauvignon Blanc is a bright, uncomplicated example.

Sauvignon Blanc has become one of Chile’s white-wine strengths, prized for its zip and aromatic lift. Drawn from the Central Valley, this is pure Sauvignon Blanc made in a fresh, early-drinking style, with cool handling in the cellar to protect its aromatics and keep the wine crisp.

The 2017 vintage is captured young and lively here. This is a wine made to drink while its freshness is at its peak rather than one to keep, and a good chilling brings out its crisp, aromatic character.

The nose offers green apple, grapefruit and fresh citrus, with a herbaceous, grassy lift that is typical of the grape. The palate is light, crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity carrying a clean, zesty finish. It is simple, but genuinely thirst-quenching, and there is no oak to distract from the fruit.

This is a versatile aperitif and an easy food white. Serve it well chilled with goat’s cheese, green salads, grilled white fish or a plate of shellfish. If you enjoy crisp, citrus-driven Sauvignon Blanc in the everyday style, this Chilean version offers plenty of refreshment for the money. It is also a natural choice for a warm evening, when its cool, citrus freshness is most welcome.