A wonderfully balanced New World white, Santa Rita 120 Chardonnay is a prime example of Chilean winemaking at its most accessible. This wine brings forward the classic Chardonnay character, with ripe tropical fruits, a touch of citrus zest, and a smooth, creamy finish. Its 13% ABV and balanced profile make it a perfect option for those looking for a well-rounded white with both fruit and finesse.
Grown in Chile’s Central Valley, the grapes benefit from excellent climatic conditions: sunny days, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils. These factors combine to produce a wine that’s generous in fruit flavour yet retains the acidity needed for balance.
Producer Profile – Santa Rita
Santa Rita is one of the most historic and well-regarded wine producers in Chile, founded in 1880 in the Maipo Valley. With over 140 years of winemaking experience, the winery has consistently been at the forefront of innovation and quality in South American wine. The 120 range pays tribute to a historic group of 120 patriots who, during Chile’s fight for independence, were sheltered by the estate’s original owner—a story that’s now deeply woven into the brand’s identity.
The winery is known for its sustainable practices and has received numerous awards for its environmental efforts, including sustainability certifications for vineyard and cellar operations. It has also been recognised internationally for wine quality, receiving accolades at Decanter, IWSC, and Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.
The Santa Rita 120 Chardonnay reflects the producer’s mission to deliver value-driven wines with consistent quality. With a presence in over 70 countries, Santa Rita continues to be a trusted name in wine Ireland and around the world.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale golden-yellow with a clear, luminous edge.
Aroma: Aromas of ripe pineapple, citrus peel, peach, and hints of vanilla and buttered toast.
Flavour: Bursting with tropical fruit, stone fruit, and a soft note of citrus. A creamy mid-palate follows, with subtle oak integration lending a touch of vanilla and toast. Balanced acidity keeps the wine vibrant.
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a smooth, rounded texture. The finish is crisp yet creamy, leaving a lingering impression of fruit and soft spice.
Food Pairings
Santa Rita 120 Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, thanks to its richness and balanced acidity. Seafood is a natural choice—try it with baked salmon, pan-fried seabass, or creamy seafood pasta. The wine’s rounded profile enhances the flavour of shellfish like prawns, scallops, or lobster with a lemon-butter sauce.
White meats also benefit from its texture. Roast chicken, turkey, or pork dishes—particularly those with creamy or slightly sweet sauces—are excellent matches. Think chicken with tarragon cream or pork with apple compote.
For vegetarian pairings, the wine works wonderfully with mushroom risotto, roasted butternut squash, or grilled vegetables drizzled with olive oil and herbs. Cheese lovers should consider pairing with Brie, Camembert, or a mild aged Cheddar.
As a sipping wine, it’s versatile enough to stand on its own—ideal for pre-dinner drinks or weekend relaxing. Its soft oak nuances and creamy mouthfeel make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
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