Los Cerros de San Juan, De la Colonia Riesling-Viognier 2023

Los Cerros de San Juan, Uruguay’s oldest winery, was established in 1854 and has been a cornerstone of winemaking in the Colonia region ever since. The De la Colonia range is designed to highlight fresh, expressive wines that showcase the unique influence of Uruguay’s maritime climate. This Riesling-Viognier blend brings together the crisp acidity and floral elegance of Riesling with the rich texture and stone fruit intensity of Viognier, creating a beautifully balanced white wine.

The vineyards benefit from cooling breezes from the nearby Río de la Plata, which help preserve acidity and aromatics in the grapes. The limestone and clay soils contribute to the wine’s minerality and structure. Fermentation in stainless steel at cool temperatures ensures that the vibrant fruit and floral notes remain fresh, while a short period on lees adds a touch of complexity and texture.

Appearance: Pale lemon with bright golden reflections, displaying excellent clarity and a shimmering, almost silken texture in the glass. The wine catches the light beautifully, hinting at both freshness and depth. A slight viscosity suggests a rounded mouthfeel, likely from the Viognier’s influence.

Aroma: Expressive and aromatic, with lively notes of ripe peach, apricot, and honeydew melon from the Viognier, balanced by zesty lime, green apple, and a touch of white blossom from the Riesling. Delicate hints of honeysuckle, jasmine, and a subtle wet stone minerality add layers of complexity.

Taste: Fresh and vibrant, with the bright acidity of Riesling lifting the ripe stone fruit flavours of Viognier. Juicy white peach, nectarine, and citrus zest dominate, followed by a touch of tropical fruit and a hint of spice. The texture is smooth yet lively, with a beautifully integrated balance between freshness and roundness.

Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering notes of citrus, floral hints, and a subtle minerality. The acidity keeps it refreshing, while the Viognier adds a soft, almost creamy finish that leaves a lasting impression of both vibrancy and depth.

Food Pairing: Thai green curry with coconut milk and lemongrass enhances the wine’s floral and citrus notes, with the acidity cutting through the richness of the dish. Grilled prawns with a mango and chilli salsa bring out the wine’s tropical fruit and aromatic complexity, making for a bright and refreshing pairing