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WINES OF CHILE

Chilean Grape Varieties

Carmenere /Car-Men-Yare/:

The signature grape of Chile, this red varietal disappeared from

European vineyards in the mid-nineteenth century and was miraculously rediscovered in Chile

one hundred years later where it has blossomed. There are currently 21,811 acres of Carmenere

planted throughout Chile. This varietal benefits from a long growing season and produces

berries that are deep and dark in color. Rich flavors of berry fruits and peppery spice combine

with silky tannins to create a unique, quintessential Chilean wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon:

Grown in the warmer Chilean climates, Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in the

Aconcagua, Maipo, and Colchagua valleys. This late-ripening varietal is well suited to the warm,

dry climate which lends aromatic notes of eucalyptus, tobacco, black olive, and rich, red fruit

flavors to the wine. There are more than 100,000 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon planted

throughout Chile.

Merlot:

This varietal made its way from Bordeaux to Chile in the mid-nineteenth century, but

was not popular amongst the people until the early 1990s. It was originally referred to as

“Chilean Merlot,” due to a spicy, green pepper nuance that was eventually attributed to a stash

of Carmenere hidden amongst the vines. Since then, vineyards have been correctly separated,

and today, Merlot from Chile appears in nearly every valley and is crafted in approachable,

fruit-forward styles.

Pinot Noir:

A relative newcomer to the Chilean vine scene, this varietal does well in the cooler

climate vineyards; particularly those in the Leyda valley. These vineyards, supported by a

coastal climate, provide optimal conditions for this often finicky varietal. There are 7,100 acres

of vineyards planted to Pinot Noir throughout Chile, most notably in the Casablanca, San

Antonio and Bío Bío valleys.

Sauvignon Blanc:

Sauvignon Blanc is often grown in the cool climate areas throughout Chile

such as the Leyda, Casablanca, San Antonio, and Coastal Aconcagua valleys. This varietal,

currently planted to nearly 30,000 acres, is highly aromatic with a zesty character that proves

to be wonderfully refreshing any time of the year.

Chardonnay:

This well-known varietal is well suited to the cool climate areas of Chile. Smooth

and well-rounded with pleasant acidity, Chardonnay from Chile boasts a tropical character that

takes kindly to oak aging and barrel fermentation for added complexity.