Team C&J
Mexico’s wine industry is an underexplored (but we are doing our best to change that) treasure trove that is steadily gaining recognition on the global stage. Just south of Valle de Guadalupe lies Valle de Santo Tomás, producing wines that are as rich in history as they are in flavor. Priced at $29, this Sauvignon Blanc offers a sophisticated yet approachable profile, making it a must-try for any wine enthusiast looking to explore new horizons.
Bodegas de Santo Tomás, one of Mexico’s oldest wineries, was established in 1888. With over 130 years of winemaking history, the winery is a symbol of resilience and tradition in Mexican viticulture. Located in the picturesque Valle de Santo Tomás, the winery benefits from a unique microclimate that combines the cool Pacific breezes with the warm, sun-soaked days typical of Baja California. This environment creates ideal conditions for producing vibrant and expressive wines.
Under the guidance of winemaker Christina Pino, who took over from Laura Zamora in 2019, Bodegas de Santo Tomás has continued to innovate while honoring its rich legacy. Christina Pino, known for her attention to detail and commitment to quality, has been instrumental in elevating the winery’s offerings, particularly their white wines. Her expertise is evident in the 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, a wine that encapsulates the essence of the Valle de Santo Tomás terroir.
The 2022 Bodegas de Santo Tomás Sauvignon Blanc is a testament to modern winemaking techniques combined with a deep respect for tradition. The grapes for this wine were hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring that only the best fruit was used in the production. The winemaking process was carefully controlled to retain the freshness and natural acidity of the Sauvignon Blanc grapes, while also allowing the wine to develop its characteristic complexity.
Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of the fruit flavors. This method also helps to highlight the varietal’s natural aromatics, which are particularly pronounced in this vintage. After fermentation, the wine was aged on its lees for a short period, adding a subtle creaminess to the palate without overshadowing the bright, zesty character that defines this Sauvignon Blanc.
As Mexico continues to carve out its place in the global wine market, producers like Bodegas de Santo Tomás are leading the charge with wines that challenge expectations and delight the senses. The future of Mexican wine is bright, and with winemakers like Christina Pino pushing the boundaries and honoring the region’s heritage, wine lovers can expect to see even more exciting releases from Bodegas de Santo Tomás in the coming years.
The 2022 Bodegas de Santo Tomás Sauvignon Blanc presents with a clear, pale lemon color. The nose is expressive and fully developed, offering a medium-plus intensity of aromas. You’ll first notice the enticing scent of guava, mingled with sharp lemon and underpinned by a mineral edge of chalk and wet gravel. On the palate, the wine is dry with high acidity, a hallmark of well-crafted Sauvignon Blanc. The flavor profile includes vibrant notes of guava and pineapple, complemented by lemon, celery, and a hint of green pepper. A subtle chalkiness ties these flavors together, leading to a clean, mineral finish that is both refreshing and complex.
At $29, the 2022 Bodegas de Santo Tomás Sauvignon Blanc is a remarkable example of what Mexican wine can achieve at a great value. It’s a wine that not only reflects the terroir of the Valle de Santo Tomás but also showcases the potential of the region’s winemaking. With its complex flavors, vibrant acidity, and exceptional value, this Sauvignon Blanc is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the diverse offerings of Mexico’s wine scene.
Mexico
Valle de Santo Tomás
Sauvignon Blanc
12.2
Christina Pino
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Burgundy
N/A
Now to 2027
Bodegas de Santo Tomás
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