WINES OF CHILE
Chile's wine history begins with the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. The missionaries introduced vines in the mid-sixteenth century for wines to use during catholic mass. Chilean wine exports increased rapidly between 1784 and 1789, competing in the international market with European wines. In 1831 there had been a total of more than 19 million vines planted in Chile.
Though began by the Spanish, Chile takes much of it's influence from French wine culture. French varieties were brought over and flourished. The vines easily adapted to the climate in Chile and it is believed that these vines are the only existing clones of grapes prior to the Phylloxera epidemic that exists in the world.
Viticulture
Chile is the only producer of wine on a large scale that has never had an outbreak of Phylloxera. Upon the return to democracy in 1990, the Chilean wine industry began a slow but steady recovery. Today it has blossomed and offers incredible value using old world varietals and sensibilities while producing new world wine styles.
Noble Varietals
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Carmenere, and Pinot Noir
Though began by the Spanish, Chile takes much of it's influence from French wine culture. French varieties were brought over and flourished. The vines easily adapted to the climate in Chile and it is believed that these vines are the only existing clones of grapes prior to the Phylloxera epidemic that exists in the world.
Viticulture
Chile is the only producer of wine on a large scale that has never had an outbreak of Phylloxera. Upon the return to democracy in 1990, the Chilean wine industry began a slow but steady recovery. Today it has blossomed and offers incredible value using old world varietals and sensibilities while producing new world wine styles.
Noble Varietals
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Carmenere, and Pinot Noir
