Chilean wine gets cool
I've been travelling in Chile this week, visiting wine regions south of Santiago. This is the epicentre of the rebirth of Chilean wine, and it is very exciting. I've written before about why Chile is experiencing a big change in its wine culture, so it is great to witness it first hand.
We have tasted dozens of small-scale, artisanal wines made from old vines in Itata and Maule which are lighter, more refreshing, more original and more interesting than the typical expectation of Chilean wine. And it's not just the little guys - larger producers are embracing this new style, and making convincing examples too. Furthermore, there are some great personalities involved - charismatic, thoughtful, opinionated and passionate winemakers who are a crucial factor in this new wine wave.
There are similarities to what has happened in Swartland recently - a reaction against generic international styles and a rediscovery of the potential of native/traditional varieties. Within Chile, the movement is gathering huge momentum and it shouldn't be long before it starts making a big impact in the UK.
There's much more to say about these wines - but here are some pictures about what is making Chilean wine cool right now. Click on any image to enlarge it.
Old bushvine País in Itata, at De Martino's estate
Devastating damage from the 2010 earthquake at the old winery buildings in Itata
Delicious: a field blend of Muscat and Corinto, which is thought to be Chasselas
Vineyards amid pine plantations; Chile's logging industry is a big threat to vineyards
The terraced vineyards at Miguel Torres' estate in Cauqenes
One of the coolest wine projects anywhere: wild País vines in flower at J Bouchon in Maule
The trunks of wild País vines, growing up from the forest floor
Some of the País bunches never turn red, so Bouchon made a white version in 2016
In Santiago, the Chanchos Deslenguados wine fair is like Raw or Rootstock; cutting edge, exciting wines
Funky Chilean wine
More funky stuff!
¡El Hipster Chileno!