
Sure, you've got the famous brands that adorn our supermarket shelves in the UK, but very rarely, some of the chosen few get the opportunity to meet interesting vintners and try some offerings that are truly exceptional and stand out from the crowd, all on their own merits.
One such opportunity arose when I discovered the wines of Vina Echeverria, a small, family owned and run wine estate in Molina, Curico Valley, the wine centre of Chile.
Roberto,Roberto I, Gloria, Viviana and Paulina Echeverria all work on the estate in different roles and are always on hand to talk about their commitment to quality and excellence that, they say, is attainable only from a truly family enterprise!

The evening starts with a great introduction from their wines with the Sauvignon Blanc 2008. Pre-Philloxera root stock (original French Sauvignon!) Bright yellow with green hues, a stunning aroma, very vibrant and strong of pineapple, grapefruit and notes of fresh herbs. These fruits are abundant on the palate, lots of very strong flavours and a long, lingering finish. Suffice to say we were taken aback by its sheer weight of flavour!
This true gem was not a one off, as other just as favourable wines were to follow, including the Unwooded Chardonnay 2008; a contender more than sufficient to be played against any Australian offerings, the Merlot 2008; a superb garne

It only leaves me to thank the Echeverria family and I look forward to the new harvest due very soon.

Thanks guys!
David Kelly