Viña Aquitania Sol de Sol Chardonnay 2022

Winery Background and History

Viña Aquitania was established in 1990 in Chile’s Maipo Valley by two esteemed Bordeaux winemakers, Bruno Prats and Paul Pontallier, along with their Chilean friend, Felipe de Solminihac. The trio recognized the region’s potential for producing high-quality wines and began by planting 18 hectares of vineyards, focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère. Over the years, Viña Aquitania has expanded its portfolio, emphasizing both traditional Bordeaux varietals and other grapes suited to Chile’s diverse terroirs. The winery is renowned for its commitment to crafting wines that reflect the unique characteristics of Chile’s wine regions, combining Old World expertise with New World innovation.

Producer and Winemaker

The founding partners of Viña Aquitania brought together a wealth of winemaking experience. Bruno Prats, formerly of Château Cos d’Estournel, and Paul Pontallier, the late managing director of Château Margaux, infused the project with Bordeaux winemaking traditions. Felipe de Solminihac, a prominent Chilean enologist, contributed his local knowledge and expertise. Today, the winemaking team continues to uphold the founders’ vision, focusing on producing elegant wines that express the distinctiveness of Chile’s terroirs.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for the Sol de Sol Chardonnay are sourced from the Malleco Valley, one of Chile’s southernmost wine regions. This area is characterized by a cool climate, influenced by its proximity to the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The vineyards benefit from significant diurnal temperature variations, with warm days promoting ripeness and cool nights preserving acidity. The soils in the Malleco Valley are predominantly volcanic, providing excellent drainage and imparting a distinct minerality to the wines. The 2022 growing season experienced favorable conditions, with a long ripening period that allowed the Chardonnay grapes to develop concentrated flavors while maintaining fresh acidity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

Upon harvest, the Chardonnay grapes are carefully selected and gently pressed to extract high-quality juice. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, a method chosen to preserve the varietal’s fresh fruit characteristics and to maintain the purity of the terroir expression. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for five months. This lees contact enhances the mouthfeel, adding a subtle creaminess and complexity to the wine without overshadowing its vibrant fruit profile. This approach results in a Chardonnay that is both elegant and expressive, showcasing the unique qualities of the Malleco Valley terroir.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.1%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Sol de Sol Chardonnay opens with vibrant aromas of grapefruit, mango, and papaya, complemented by hints of cream, white peaches, and apricots. On the palate, it reveals a mouthwatering acidity, delivering intense citrus and orchard fruit flavors, leading to a pure, clean finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chardonnay’s bright acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs excellently with leafy salads, baked pasta dishes, seafood, and grilled fish. The wine’s freshness complements the flavors of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic profile and crispness, serve the wine chilled at around 8-10°C (46-50°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature range highlights the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced flavors to shine.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Sol de Sol Chardonnay is crafted for immediate enjoyment but also possesses the structure to develop further complexity with short-term cellaring. It can be cellared for up to six years, during which it may gain additional depth and integration. Store the wine in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures to ensure optimal aging. 

Scores

As of now, specific scores from major wine publications for the 2022 vintage are not available. However, previous vintages of the Sol de Sol Chardonnay have received favorable reviews, indicating a consistent quality across vintages.