Viña Marty Goutte d’Argent Pinot Noir 2020 Leyda Valley, San Antonio, Chile 75cl

Viña Marty is the Chilean venture of Bordeaux-trained winemaker Pascal Marty, founded in 2008. His Goutte d’Argent range is built on a single unusual idea, and this Pinot Noir is one of its most surprising expressions, grown in the cool, coastal Leyda Valley near the Pacific.

The wine is pure Pinot Noir fermented with sake yeast that Viña Marty is uniquely permitted to use outside Japan. Working at lower temperatures, the yeast shapes the aromatics and texture, giving a red that keeps Pinot’s natural delicacy while adding a savoury, floral layer of its own. The label was designed with the artists behind the Drops of God manga.

The 2020 vintage now has a little bottle age, which suits this lighter, aromatic style and lets the savoury and floral notes settle in alongside the fruit. It is drinking well now and is best served lightly chilled, which lifts its perfume and keeps the palate fresh.

Expect fragrant red-berry fruit lifted by a distinct savoury, floral character that comes from the sake yeast. The palate is light and fresh, with fine tannins and an aromatic, gently umami finish that clearly sets it apart from a conventional Pinot Noir. There is real intrigue in the glass.

For drinkers who enjoy lighter, perfumed reds and like to try something genuinely different, this is a rewarding glass. Its freshness and savoury edge make it a versatile partner for salmon, duck, mushroom dishes or a lightly spiced plate. It is a red that quietly wins people over.