2024 Grillos Cantores - Corinto Mi Nena Blanco (750ml)

Agrícola Grillos Cantores was founded in 2019 by winemaker Paco Leyton, also known for his work with the acclaimed Chilean project Clos des Fous. Leyton's philosophy centers on minimal intervention, letting the character of each old, forgotten vineyard and its native grape speak for itself rather than imposing a heavy winemaking hand. The estate works across the Itata Valley, one of Chile's oldest wine regions, seeking out historic plantings that have been largely overlooked by the country's modern wine industry.

Mi Nena comes from a single vineyard of Corinto, known internationally as Chasselas, planted in the Guarilihue subregion of Itata in the late 1800s by the grandfather of the vineyard's current caretaker. The vines are head-trained, dry-farmed bush vines growing in white, silty, sandy soils rich in mica, granite, and quartz, conditions that lend the wine its mineral character. After a long fermentation, the wine ages on its lees in tank for an extended period, building texture while preserving freshness.

The result is a light-bodied, dry white with aromas of green apple, ripe pear, and white pepper, followed by a palate of citrus, passionfruit, and subtle herbal notes, backed by a silky texture and bright acidity. It pairs beautifully with ceviche, sushi, goat cheese, or grilled vegetables.