We’ve recently reviewed a couple Chilean pinot noirs from the Casablanca Valley, which were pretty tasty, and today we’re tasting wine from a region a little further south than Casablanca Valley, called Leyda Valley. This is a specific DOC within San Antonio Valley, and was just formally recognized as a DOC in 2002. Viña Leyda was established a few years prior to this, in 1997. But, it is still a relatively young wine brand.
The Leyda Valley is the largest and southernmost part of San Antonio Valley. This region has a strong maritime influence with a moderate climate that includes mist in the morning and winds in the afternoons. These cool-climate conditions are great for chardonnay and pinot noir, which are the most grown grapes in this region.
OK, so this isn’t going to sound good but the first thing that came to mind when I smelled this wine was, “sweaty, old leather shoe.” Yep, there are definitely some earthy tones to this wine. As it opens up, the aromas evolve into something more like dried grass, cured meat and tree bark. You’ll notice no mention of fruit there, that’s because I’m really picking up on any distinct fruit on the nose. I’m kind of torn on the likeability here. At first it was slightly off-putting, but interesting nonetheless. And it’s growing on me.
There’s definitely a lot going on with it and it’s not a boring, average wine. But it’s not brimming with fruit, if that’s what you’re looking for from your pinot noir. The palate is slightly tart, with cranberry and cherry flavors. The tartness is particularly intense for a couple seconds on the mid-palate. It finishes with cherry and cured meat flavors. If you like exploring interesting wines, this is worth checking out.
Wine: Leyda Classic
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2009
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 85
Price: $11.00
Find Leyda Classic Pinot Noir with Snooth
Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.