Chilean Wine Regions | Gaining Momentum

Chile, with its remarkable Chilean wine regions, has recently come to the forefront as a major wine producer and Chilean wine is enjoyed by many American consumers.

Chile has many diverse and distinct wine regions.

Chilean Wine Regions are unique and distinct.

Among this country’s rare geographical distinctions is an 800-mile stretch of land nestled between the Andes Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean that happens to be the perfect natural environment for growing grapes to make great wines. Nutrient-rich soil, natural irrigation from melting snow, long dry summers and the Pacific air combine to create classic wines with Chile’s unique signature.

The South American country of Chile is 18 times longer than it is wide. It is home to the world’s driest desert, yet it has a territorial claim in the Antarctic. It is one of only two countries in the world where you can unearth the semi-precious blue Lapis Lazuli stone. And it has 50 active volcanoes. (www.winesofchile.org)

Chile’s Casablanca Valley is known for producing outstanding fresh and crisp Chilean Sauvignon Blanc that go well with spicy foods such as Mexican and Indian. Also from this region, the Chilean Pinot Noir is light and earthy and a good match for fish, poultry and rice dishes.

The Maipo Valley yields fruity and soft Merlots that pair nicely with fish, chicken and pork as well as rich Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon with characteristics of berries, chocolate, black tea and truffle that are fabulous with beef or lamb.

Also from this Central Valley area, Chilean Carménère is a dark, rich, fruity and spicy wine that works well with a variety of meats, poultry and seasoned dishes. Brought over from France to Chile, the grapes were originally thought to be Merlot and were only recently identified as part of the Bordeaux red family.

For an experience as diverse and intriguing as the country itself, the natural choice is choosing handcrafted wines from Chile.