Central Valley Region, Chilean Wines:

There is no doubt that coastal regions provide the most stunning, beneficial and desirable locations for grape growing. Considered to be “New World” among wine producing regions, these Chilean expressions are a journey across steep slopes and coastal mountains—sipping from north to south through an oenophile’s paradise. The ripest grapes in a moderate-to-cool climate reflect the balance of maritime winds and sunny afternoons. Fellow geography and weather geeks will recognize this as the upwelling of maritime winds driven by the Humbolt Current—a high pressure ecosystem where arctic and tropical elements collide. Disguised as arid conditions traversing the South American coast, a nutrient-rich fog is continuously basted over dry surface currents.

These ETF wines are produced from vines in nestled valleys and foothills, rooted in the nutrient-rich, granitic and well-draining terrain—some of the earth’s most beautiful and remote destinations.

• Vistamar Eje White Blend Grand Reserve, Casablanca/Aconcagua Valley: An overlooked single estate wine, lurking within the semi-premium segment. While the Casablanca sub-region is a sought after source of grapes for many wineries, Vistamar’s coastal sector exemplifies quality. Where vines are digging deeper into the soil for nutrients, a high-density vineyard approach commands flavor and concentrated aromas. Expect minerality, citrus and subtle vanilla notes; The blend includes slow ripening grapes—Chardonnay and Viognier. Look for small production expressions from Viña Vistamar, namely the Block portfolio, led by the multipotentialite winemaker Daniela Salinas.

• Carmen Single Vine Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca: A refreshing Sauvignon Blanc with oceanic influence, hints of salinity. Produced within an east-west-oriented valley, the single vineyard wine expresses a renaissance where the region’s coastal viticulture was pioneered.

• Los Vascos Rose, Colchagua/Rapel Valley: An olfactory explosion of ripe fruits and delicate florals. However on the palate, this cabernet-based rose is one of the most creamy and gentle. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carmenere, 5% Syrah.

• Chateau Los Boldos Carmenère Tradition, Rapel Valley: Carmenère (pronounced “car-men-nair”) is generally considered a “rare grape”, although making a comeback among oenophiles. Characteristically herbaceous in aroma, the medium body wine features age-worthy acidic qualities—maintaining its structure. A round texture is accompanied by subtle notes of dark fruit and chocolate.

• Chateau Los Boldos Cabernet Grand Reserve, Cachapoal/Rapel Valley: A tannic expression balanced by malolactic fermentation. The intense ruby red color compliments flavor intensity of dark fruit balanced by leather and smoke. The texture and complexity is improved by naturally occurring medium-chain fatty acids in the Cabernet grapes. Best enjoyed with strong cheeses and cold cuts. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 10-months in French oak.

Chile’s wine industry is among the New World’s youngest, experiencing its renaissance in the recent 1980’s (or, otherwise yesterday). However, enjoying these fruits is laborious; Once an engineering feat to establish a system of wells for harvesting water, Central Chile’s climate continues to face environmental challenges. For geeks that drink—higher atmospheric pressure and sub-tropic displacement are reducing precipitation, which impacts grapevine development depending on timing. Challenges aside, Chilean producers are pumping out interesting wine portfolios across all pricing segments. Keep an eye on the Central Valley for emerging market Chilean ETFs.

“What’s under your nose?“
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