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Santa Rita
There are 3 products.
Available in
- Bottle (75cl)
- 11.95€ / bottleTASTING NOTES
Specifications
Available in
- Bottle (75cl)
- 81.60€ / bottle- Case of 6 bottles (75cl)
81.60€ / bottleTASTING NOTES
Wine Spectator
94
J. Suckling
94
Specifications
Château Santa Rita: An Exceptional Wine Estate in Chile
Founded in 1880, Château Santa Rita is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine estates in Chile. Globally recognized, its wines reflect the authenticity and diversity of Chilean terroirs, making Santa Rita a true ambassador of Chilean wines.
Located in Chile's central valley, Santa Rita spans over 2000 hectares and operates vineyards in seven different wine regions: Limarí, Casablanca, Maipo, Leyda, Colchagua, Apalta, and Curicó. This regional diversity allows Santa Rita to produce a wide range of wines with varied profiles, focusing on quality and respect for winemaking traditions.
The Grape Varieties of Château Santa Rita
Santa Rita stands out for cultivating numerous high-quality grape varieties, both for red and white wines. Among the varieties grown, there are classic and iconic Chilean varietals:
Red Grape Varieties:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A flagship grape of the estate, renowned for its black fruit aromas, spicy notes, and powerful yet well-balanced tannins.
- Merlot: This grape produces smooth, fruity wines with notes of plums and cherries.
- Carménère: Chile's signature grape variety, offering black pepper and ripe red fruit aromas, often complemented by herbaceous notes.
- Syrah: Produces rich and complex wines, with aromas of blackberries, black pepper, and sometimes chocolate.
White Grape Varieties:
- Chardonnay: A globally recognized varietal, resulting in wines with citrus, apple, and sometimes buttery notes when aged in oak barrels.
- Sauvignon Blanc: A fresh and vibrant wine with aromas of lime, grapefruit, and occasionally tropical fruits.
Santa Rita’s Wine Regions
The geographical diversity of Santa Rita's vineyards allows for winemaking that is tailored to each terroir, offering unique characteristics in each vintage.
- Maipo Valley: Known for its elegant and structured Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Colchagua: Renowned for its rich and opulent Syrah and Carménère.
- Casablanca and Leyda: Cool regions primarily growing white grapes like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
- Limarí and Curicó: These regions produce wines with intense aromas, particularly Merlot and Carménère, due to unique climatic conditions.
The Great Wines of Santa Rita
Santa Rita is distinguished by a rich and varied range of wines, from accessible options to exceptional cuvées. Here is a selection of the estate's best wines:
- Casa Real: An iconic Cabernet Sauvignon, considered one of Chile's finest. This wine is distinguished by its aromatic complexity, silky tannins, and long aging potential.
- Medalla Real: Available in both Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, this range offers rich aromas and a well-structured palate.
- Reserva Especial: A versatile range showcasing Chile's emblematic varietals, such as Carménère and Merlot.
- 120: This range pays tribute to the 120 Chilean patriots who took refuge at Santa Rita during the war of independence. The 120 wines are known for being accessible, fruity, and perfect for everyday enjoyment.
The Style and Characteristics of Santa Rita Wines
Santa Rita wines are renowned for their aromatic purity, freshness, and perfect balance between acidity and structure. Whether it's a lively and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or a bold and complex Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate’s wines are always marked by attention to detail and remarkable finesse.
- Fruity and oaky: Many cuvées benefit from oak barrel aging, imparting subtle woody notes that blend beautifully with red and black fruit aromas.
- Silky tannins: The red wines, particularly the Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, are distinguished by silky tannins that provide structure and length on the palate without being aggressive.
- Freshness: The white wines, such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, are known for their freshness and liveliness, offering a natural and delightful acidity.
Why Choose Château Santa Rita Wines?
Choosing a Santa Rita wine means opting for Chilean excellence. The richness of the terroirs, innovative winemaking, and meticulous attention to detail make this estate a key reference. Here are a few reasons why Santa Rita wines deserve a place in your collection:
- Consistent quality: Regardless of the range, Santa Rita guarantees high-quality wines, perfect for any occasion.
- Diverse grape varieties: Whether you prefer white or red wines, you’ll find something to suit your taste in the wide range offered.
- History and tradition: With over 140 years of history, Santa Rita embodies Chile’s viticultural heritage, while adopting modern techniques to ensure optimal quality.
The Best Vintages to Enjoy
Each year, Santa Rita offers exceptional vintages that vary according to climatic conditions. Among the best recent vintages are Casa Real 2018, Medalla Real 2019, and 120 Carménère 2020. These wines are characterized by great finesse and aromatic complexity, sure to delight lovers of fine wines.
FAQ About Château Santa Rita Wines
What is the emblematic grape variety of the Santa Rita estate? The most iconic grape variety of Santa Rita is Carménère, often considered the signature grape of Chile.
Where are Santa Rita’s vineyards located? Santa Rita's vineyards are spread across seven Chilean wine regions, including Maipo, Casablanca, and Colchagua.
What is Santa Rita’s best red wine? The Casa Real, a Cabernet Sauvignon, is often cited as one of Santa Rita's finest red wines.
Are Santa Rita wines accessible to beginners? Yes, the wines from the 120 range are particularly appreciated by beginners for their fruity and easy-drinking character.
What dishes pair well with Santa Rita wines? Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon pair perfectly with red meats and spicy dishes, while white wines like Chardonnay are ideal with fish and seafood.
Are Santa Rita wines available in France? Yes, you can find Santa Rita wines at select wine shops and specialized online stores.
Conclusion
In summary, the wines of Château Santa Rita offer an invitation to discover the richness of Chilean terroirs through a selection of iconic grape varieties. Whether it’s prestigious cuvées like Casa Real or more accessible wines from the 120 range, Santa Rita offers an unforgettable tasting experience for wine enthusiasts.