Category: chile

Australia, Argentina, and Chile each boast rich histories of winemaking that reflect their unique terroirs and cultural influences, as well as the origins of their signature grape varietals. Australia’s wine journey began with early European settlers in the 18th century, who quickly recognized the potential of its diverse landscapes, leading to the establishment of iconic regions like Barossa Valley and…

When I was in University many years ago, I purchased a bottle of Maison Louis Latour Chardonnay, that was on their entry-level scale.  That wine sparked my interest in French wine.  In some “New World” regions, Chardonnay has been more recently planted, while other locations have had Chardonnay vines for over 100 years.  Over time, through the wine trade’s many…

One of the newer winemaking families in Chile is the Toro family located in the Maipo and the San Antonio Valley.  They bought their first vineyard in 1998 and made their first wine in 2001 under the label Viña Chocalán. Chocalán is the indigenous word for the yellow blossoms from a shrub that blooms in the area. I received two…

The history of the Carmenère grape is a tale of rediscovery and revitalization, with its roots deeply intertwined with the viticultural landscapes of both France and Chile.  Carmenère faced near-extinction in France due to the phylloxera epidemic in the 19th century. Unbeknownst to many, some vines were transported to Chile before the devastation, where they thrived in the climate and…

This is a new wine to me.  I am usually quite familiar with the wines of Chile.  Cigar Box Pinot Noir comes from the cooler Casablanca Valley, made by the Sur Andino winery.  The Casablanca Valley is located 75 km northwest of Santiago, Chile and is approximately at 33 degrees south latitude, which if it was in the northern hemisphere…

The Sauvignon Blanc grape traces its lineage to the historic vineyards of France’s Loire Valley, where it gained early recognition for its distinct aromatic profile and vibrant acidity. It is also one of two grapes, along with Semillon, which makes white Bordeaux blends. However, it was the New World wine regions that truly propelled Sauvignon Blanc to worldwide fame, reimagining…

The Riesling grape, originating in the Rhine region of Germany, carries a legacy that spans centuries. Its journey across the world has resulted in an intriguing juxtaposition between Old World and New World expressions. In Germany and Alsace, the grape showcases its classic charm, producing wines with delicate floral aromas, racy acidity, and a pronounced mineral character. In contrast, New…

Cabernet Sauvignon is the King of single-varietal red wines.  The robust body, coupled with its signature notes of black currant, black cherries, plum, and cedar, creates a sensory journey that is both powerful and refined. Its ability to age with grace only adds to its majesty, as tannins soften and intricate layers unfurl, revealing the true artistry of winemaking. It…

I had a lovely chat with Marine Séon, Export Sales Manager, from Hacienda Araucano from Chile at VanWineFest 2023.  The winery has a French influence with French owner François Lurton as well as being the winemaker.  Marine tells me a bit about the winery, which has organic and biodynamic vineyards, and the Sauvignon Blanc she poured for me from the…

I had an excellent talk with Andres Izquierdo from Viña Undurraga in Chile at VanWineFest 2023.  He talked about the history of Viña Undurraga, which was established in 1885.  We then moved on to a discussion of the cool-climate region of Leyda Valley where their Sibaris Pinot Noir grapes were grown.  Do you know what Sibaris means?  Listen to Andres…