Tasting Report: Good wines and great QPRs from Chilean producer Vina Ventisquero (Chile)

Chilean wines are quickly becoming some of the best QPR (quality-to-price) wines in the market today. From Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet, to the more rare Carmemere, the Chilean wine industry is setting the bar high when it comes to wines that bring big bang for their buck. (click here for more on Chilean wines)

I was recently invited to lunch with Felipe Tosso, head winemaker at up and coming producer Vina Ventisquero. In our two hour lunch I developed an understanding of his style and a respect for his experience and passion, as well as for his commitment to maintain eco-friendly wines. (image from www.intlwine.com/southamerica.htm) Read more

MD Cru June Offline: Rieslings, Malbecs, Chorizo, Shrimp, Scallops and Flank Steaks- “Life is good.”

“Life is good.” That statement, which was made about halfway through dinner Saturday night by history guru “GF”, would be sufficient to sum up the evening. This was, of course, the monthly meet-up of the MD Cru- a group of food and wine enthusiasts who organize through the Wine Spectator forums to share great food and stories. And of course we open a few bottles of wine as well.

This month we were in D.C., at the beautiful historic home of one of the groups long-time members (there is no official group, or membership, for that matter, but it’s an easy way to refer to what has become a gathering of friends). The wine theme was two fold: German Rieslings and Argentine Malbecs. Other wines made it into the rotation, of course; a couple whites to start, a Champange, dessert wines, and a “pair” of ringers from Chile. Read more

Wine Region Overview: A brief look at Chile

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.

20 Great Value Wines: How to drink good wine when gas is $5.00 a gallon or more

The current economy has most of us cutting back on non-essentials, driving less, and trying to find ways to save a few bucks. Below is a list of wines that you can afford by cutting back on two gallons of gas or less (most are under $10!). For specific recommendations on wines, wine regions, wine pairings, or anything related to value wines, leave a comment. Have a favorite wine under $10 that I missed? Let us know about it! (Image: WINE AND MONEY© Kvkirillov | Dreamstime.com)

Here are my top picks for value wines, producers, and wine regions. Keep in mind that an 85 is a “Very Good” wine and shouldn’t be overlooked. Too often reviewers and magazines want you to think that only 90 point wines are worth drinking…this isn’t the case and can become quite expensive! An 85 point wine is a wine that I consider to be very good, and would buy again.

Keep an eye out for my report next week on the best wineries and wine regions when it comes to quality and value!

Twenty Great Value Wines: (Click here to download this as a shopping list in PDF Form)

Sparkling

N.V. Riondo Prosecco Veneto IGT -$12 (Italy, Veneto, Veneto IGT): Sealed with a traditional cork requiring a cork-screw. A little sweet, hint of yeast, a little fruity, not a lot of fizz but quite refreshing. Overall good appertif, nice flavors. My rating: 87 pts, GV (Good Value)

N.V. Roederer Estate Brut -$21 (USA, California, North Coast, Anderson Valley): This is the most expensive wine I put on the list, with all the others being $12 or less. But for the price, you get good value here. Apples and citrus on the palate, a very crisp wine with subtle nuttiness and caramel. Nice finish- a great bottle of a special dinner on a budget. My rating: 89 pts, GV Read more