Santa Ema’s entry level wines were generally uninspiring except for the following two offerings. The 2007 Amplus Sauvignon Blanc, from the cool climate Leyda Valley where Sauvignon does particularly well, offers an excellent aromatic array of grapefruit, lime, gooseberry, and a hint of minerality. Crisp, with good depth of flavor, this nicely balanced, lengthy wine can be enjoyed over the next 12-18 months. It is an excellent value. Importer: TGIC Importers, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (800) 924-0300

Like so many Chilean producers, Santa Ema has turned to the coastal Leyda Valley for cool-climate, green-tinted Sauvignon Blanc. And while Amplus is melony and ripe, it also shows that oceanic character via green papaya, passion fruit and other grassy flavors. Good for a first-time effort, but with room to improve. ——M.S.(11/15/2008)—— 87