# Cenizas de Laberinto Sauvignon Blanc (2024)

- **Producer:** Laberinto
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Maule Valley, Chile
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lime, elderflower, grass, herbaceous, gooseberry, yeast, cream

## About this wine

Cenizas de Laberinto is a landmark Sauvignon Blanc from the remote D.O. Colbún in Chile's Maule Valley. Crafted by visionary winemaker Rafael Tirado, the vineyard is planted in a literal labyrinth design on volcanic ash soils near the Colbún lake. This unique layout forces the vines to capture sunlight from multiple angles, resulting in a highly complex and distinctive expression of the grape that challenges traditional Chilean Sauvignon Blanc styles.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyard is planted in a literal labyrinth design to optimize sun exposure and wind protection.
- The name 'Cenizas' translates to 'ashes', referencing the volcanic ash soils of the Colbún appellation.
- Winemaker Rafael Tirado was a pioneer in establishing the D.O. Colbún, located near the Andes.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and intense mineral profile of this Sauvignon Blanc make it an exceptional partner for fresh seafood and dishes with high acidity or herbal components. The wine's subtle creaminess from lees aging also allows it to pair beautifully with creamy goat cheeses, cutting through the richness while matching the cheese's natural tang.

## Wine making process

The grapes are harvested by hand from the labyrinth-shaped vineyards. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant primary fruit and electric acidity. The wine is aged on its fine lees for several months, which imparts a creamy mid-palate texture and complexity, balancing the intense mineral and volcanic soil characteristics.