Chile, in numerous respects, serves as an exemplary location for wine production. The area is devoid of the array of diseases that infest vineyards in other nations. It boasts consistently warm, dry, and sunny climate conditions, with the nearby Andes providing a stable water source. However, many purchasers perceive Chile mainly as a provider of affordable wines. Undeniably, the country provides excellent value for your money, but it has much more to offer.
Chile possesses the knack for producing top-notch varieties of all key international grapes, including sauvignon, chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet, and merlot. When you include sémillon, as well as local favourites such as carménère, pais, and moscatel, wine aficionados have quite a selection to choose from.
Larger establishments like Santa Rita, Concha y Toro, and Errazuriz produce wines of exceptional quality, typically Bordeaux blends accentuating cabernet sauvignon, predominantly from the Maipo Valley neighbouring Santiago.
Today, we are acknowledging the diversity that Chile brings to the table with four wines derived from lesser-known grape varieties and regions in Chile.
De Martino, a family-owned firm, is credited for creating some of Chile’s most thrilling wines. I have developed a significant admiration for its wines originating from Itata, a region housing some of the world’s oldest vines. Torres was among the leading overseas producers to acquire vineyards in Chile. The Carignan featured below is derived from vines sown in the 1950s.
Dedicated to shift Ireland’s perception towards the fine wines of her nation is Chilean Paz Donoso of Bodega Donbear. The following Petit Verdot is imported from one of her numerous estates.
Leyda Coastal Vineyards Neblina Riesling 2021
12.5%, priced at €15.95, down from €18.95
This wine exhibits floral scents and vivid green apple flavours with a hint of orange peel. It pairs well with sushi or grilled mackerel. Available for purchase from O’Briens.
De Martino Ungrafted Old Vines Cinsault 2022
13%, €23
This delightful wine presents vibrant elderberry and blackcurrant flavours with fine-grained tannins. It pairs excellently with antipasti or roast chicken. A great bargain as well.
The Torres Cordillera de los Andes Vigno Carignan 2021 from Maule is available for purchase at a number of locations including Barnhill Stores, Dalkey, Martins, Donnybrook Fair, Matson’s at Cork, Worldwide Wines at Waterford, Redmonds D6, and Kellys in Clontarf. Priced at €25 and with an alcohol content of 14%, this exquisite wine exudes a robust concentration of dark fruits, seamlessly balanced with muscular tannins, and culminating in a lengthy mineral finish. It pairs beautifully with either roast pork or vegetarian chilli con carne.
Similarly, the Globo Vultur Petit Verdot 2020, of Colchagua Valley origin, can be obtained from Bradley’s in Cork, Pinto Wines, and Bodegasdonbear.com. Priced at €29.95 and with an alcohol volume of 13.5%, this luxurious wine indulges the palate with rich, opulent dark fruits, complemented with a hint of spice and a silky smooth finish. It marries well with dishes such as lamb cutlets or an intense bean hotpot.