J. Bouchon Salvaje País Blanco 2022

Technical Information

• Appellation: Maule Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2022
• Varietal Composition: 100% País (also known as Mission)
• Alcohol: 12-12.5% by volume
• Winemaking: Wild fermentation with native yeasts, minimal intervention
• Aging: Stainless steel, no oak influence
• Vineyard: Old, dry-farmed bush vines (60+ years)
• Soil Type: Granitic, sandy soils
• Farming Practices: Organic, dry-farmed, "wild" vineyard (salvaje)
• Production: Very limited
• Harvest Method: Hand-harvested

Appearance

Pale straw with slight green-gold reflections. Brilliant clarity with light to medium viscosity.

Aromatics

Vibrant and distinctive with notes of green apple, white peach, and citrus blossom, complemented by wild herbs, chamomile, and subtle mineral undertones. Unique aromatic profile displays hints of white flowers, green melon, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs.

Palate

Light to medium-bodied with crisp, refreshing acidity. Flavors of green apple, lemon zest, and white stone fruit are balanced by mineral notes and subtle herbal character. The wine shows remarkable purity and freshness with a clean, focused texture. The finish is bright and persistent with lingering citrus and saline mineral notes.

Food Pairing Suggestions

• Seafood: Ceviche, grilled octopus, shellfish
• Chilean cuisine: Empanadas de mariscos, pastel de choclo
• Fresh cheeses: Goat cheese, queso fresco
• Vegetable dishes: Summer salads, grilled vegetables
• Poultry: Herb-roasted chicken, citrus-marinated turkey
• Spicy dishes: Mild to medium-spiced Asian or Latin cuisines

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: 45-50°F (7-10°C)
• Glassware: Standard white wine glass
• Cellaring Potential: Best enjoyed within 1-2 years of release to preserve freshness

Wine Background

J. Bouchon's Salvaje (meaning "wild" in Spanish) País Blanco represents a unique expression of Chile's heritage grape variety. Unlike the more common red País, this white version is produced from the same grape by employing gentle pressing with minimal skin contact. The vines grow naturally in the wild, without irrigation or much human intervention, among native vegetation and local flora, contributing to the wine's distinctive character.

Producer Information

J. Bouchon is a family-owned winery with French roots, established in Chile's Maule Valley in the late 19th century. Under the leadership of Julio Bouchon, the winery has been at the forefront of rediscovering and championing Chile's heritage varieties, particularly País. Their Salvaje project focuses on preserving ancient, dry-farmed bush vines and celebrating minimal intervention winemaking techniques that allow the unique terroir to shine through.