Vina Ventisquero 2022 "Tara" Atacama Chardonnay

92 Points from Wine Enthusiast

The 2022 Vina Ventisquero "Tara" Atacama Chardonnay is a striking expression of Chile's northern desert terroir. Sourced from the Huasco Valley at the southern edge of the Atacama Desert, this unfiltered, unwooded Chardonnay reveals a fresh, mineral-driven character with a tense, well-structured mouthfeel. On the nose, it opens with delicate floral notes and aromas of sweet cucumber and apricot, evolving in the glass to reveal layers of grapefruit, pear, quince, and ginger. The palate is vibrant and lively, marked by chalky textures and a distinct saline finish that reflects the limestone-rich, salt-laden soils of its origin. Its refreshing acidity and savory complexity make it an ideal companion to shellfish, seafood, oily fish, and white meats, where its brightness and salinity enhance the flavors of the dish.

This wine has garnered significant acclaim for its uniqueness and quality. Wine Enthusiast awarded it a commendable 92 points, praising its layered palate and vibrant acidity. Critics have hailed it as one of South America's finest examples of Chardonnay, noting its leesy texture, orange zest nuances, and the influence of the Pacific's cooling Camanchaca fog on the vineyard's microclimate. With only 6,200 bottles produced, the Tara Chardonnay stands out not just in Chile but globally, offering a rare and compelling taste of extreme viticulture.

750ml