Chilean wine has a great taste in history. Chilean wine and winemaking date back to the 16th Century when the Spanish conquistadors brought raisins over from Spain. The pits from the raisins grew the first grape vines in Chile. Winemaking continued into the 18th century as Jesuit missionaries settled throughout the country.

European vines change the landscape.

A century later vine cuttings were brought to Chile from France by a wealthy land owner looking to improve his vines leading to the birth of top quality wine. The introduction of European vines to the ideal temperate climate of Chile has resulted in a broad spectrum of fabulous wine from multiple Chilean wine regions. The hot sunny days and cool nights paired with perfect soil, allow grapes ranging from Cabernet Sauvignon to Merlot, Malbec to Carmenere, and Chardonnay to Sauvignon Blanc to thrive. In fact, Carmenere, which originated in Bordeaux France has become the signature grape of Chile because it is so rare everywhere else in the world.

Chilean wine gaining momentum.

Chile, with is fruit forward and robust Chilean wine, has recently come to the forefront as a major wine producer and enjoyed by many American consumers. Review the list of our favorite handcrafted wines from Chile. Chile is now the fifth largest exporter of wines in the world, and the ninth largest producer.