Sierra Oriental Naranja

In 2011, the Diz family produced the first wines under the label Sierra Oriental, a long time after a flit from Galicia to Argentina in 1881, then to Uruguay in 1998. Just over a century of animal and plant cultivation provided sufficient agricultural experience and knowledge to plunge into the world of viticulture, harvest number one being in 2008. Sierra Oriental is in the region of Maldonado in the “oceanic” south east of Uruguay. It is a quintessential example of Atlantic influence with more moderate temperatures than the other wine regions of the country, ripening regulating diurnal temperature ranges and a satisfying geological diversity. And it boasts higher altitudes than the other regions. Maldonado possesses some of the oldest rocks on the planet: 2500 million years old (0.05% of the age of Earth, mind numbing numbers). Crystalline rocks, quartzite rocks, alluvial deposits and gravel all contribute to the millenia old crushed and decomposed surface ballast. The resulting soils possess excellent drainability, permeability and mineral content, all particularly beneficial to the humble vine. Now that a thirst’s developed, what to expect from this Sauvignon Gris/ Pinot Grigio 60/40 blend? First off, Sauvignon Gris is a rather obscure grape from Bordeaux used primarily as a blending seasoning with only 2% of Bordeaux vines dedicated to the varietal. Secondly, this is a skin contact wine, with the skins having been in contact with the juice for 4 months, sucking out the phenols to create wine with a deep orange glow. Thirdly, florals, honey, candied fruits, black tea and a whizz of citrus abound with a long, complex finish, dancing with a zesty acidity. A very accessible drop and superb value for an unusual and delicious blend.