One of the most up and coming wine regions (countries) in the world is Chile. This South American country has a very unique shape; it’s 4300 kilometers from it’s northern most tip all the way south past the Strait of Magellan, yet less than 200 kilometers wide (with the Pacific ocean to the west and the Andes Mountains to the east). The geography is also quite unique with the south providing vast glaciers and mountain ranges, yet the north and central parts filled with dry deserts, fertile plains, and a variety of micro-climates. It is only expected that somewhere in the middle of all this there would be a large area that is suitable to grow a few grapes. In fact, not only is there sufficient land and climate to make good wines, but in some areas the terroir is exceptional, allowing for the production of many great to outstanding wines.

Chilean viticulture is thought to be at least 400 year old, stemming from initial plantings by Spanish conquistador’s (seen above in image from Wikipedia Commons) in the 1600’s. Still, it wasn’t until the 1990’s that Chilean wine began to become recognized as having world-class wine potential. According to wikipedia, in 1995 Chile was home to only 12 wineries, whereas in 2005 that number has gone over 70. This increase in production makes Chile the firth largest exporter of wines to the US. So it’s no surprise when you walk into your neighborhood wine shop that a larger and larger section is being dedicated to this up and coming wines.

The most common varietals you’ll see from Chile are Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, for whites, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Caermenere for reds. There is also a big push for Pinot Noir, especially in the Casablanca wine region where the cooler, longer growing season provides a good environment for this finicky grape to thrive.

THe majority of Chilean winemaking takes place int he middle of the country. Chilean wine law recognizes the following regions: Atacama, Coquimbo, Aconcagua, Valle Central, and Southern Chile. Of notable intersst are Acongua and Valle Central.

I’ve had dozens of wines from Aconcagua, ranging from the wines in Casablanca which produce ripe, balanced Chardonnay’s, citrusy and crisp Sauvignon Blanc and cherry-filled, slightly acidity Pinot’s that offer great value. In the north, Acongau is known for Carmemere and Cabernet Sauvingon. Valle Central is home to the most famous of the wine regions which includes the Maipo Valley (well-known for Cabernet-based wines), as well as the Rapel Valley, Curico Valley and the Maule Valley. These are the regions that brought Chilean winemaking to the international stage and continue to make some of the more interesting Cabernet-based wines year in and year out.

Overall Chile is a wine region to keep your eye on. Many Chilean wineries are brinigng in expert winemakers from around the world to help craft outstanding wines from the great fruit that is coming from the vineyards. I would expect to only see improvemnets in the quality of wine in this region in the next 10 yeras. With the pricing in today’s market, many of tehse wines are incredible values. Be sure to keep an eye out for Chilean Pinot Noir which in my opinion will become one of the next “hot” wines (similar to what happened with Argentinian Malbec). Lastly, do not pass up on a chance to try a Chilean Carmenere, especially with BBQ meats or lamb. The depth of flavors and acidity make this a go-to food and wine pairing.