I recently attended a seminar hosted by the UK office of Wines Of Chile – the generic body responsible for promoting Chilean wines.
This was the first major trade update for a number of years and there were some very exciting points.
Chile is regarded as being reliable and consistent with the emphasis on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
This might suggest something a little bit boring and yet on the basis of the seminar, Chile is vibrant, dynamic and innovative with lots of forward thinking plans.
The wine map of Chile is constantly being redrawn as it gets out of date almost immediately.
Irrigated vineyards are now finding success in the Atacama desert and cooler climate zones such as San Antonio and Casablanca Valley are producing much sought after wines – particularly Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
The unique topography of Chile allows for a wide divergence in microclimate within very small areas.
Syrah and Pinot Noir are becoming the next big thing as producers have begun to find the best terroir to suit these grapes.
Sparkling wine is also showing a massive surge and the diversity of grapes planted is increasing.
Exploring this amazing diversity of wines is a challenge, but I am more and more excited about the tours I’m running in November, and the opportunity we have to experience first hand the innovation and excitement that Chile offers.