Chile
The Chilean vineyards date back to the Spanish colonization in the XVIIth century. Their natural isolation, geographic extension spread and regional diversity convey to them a personality of their own. Their red and white wines, both complex and powerful, have gained worldwide success.
Surface : 205 000 hectares Production : 12,5 Mhl Consumption : 3;5Mhl
Terroirs
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soils : poor, cobbly, rocky in the Andean valleys
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climate semi-arid : permanent irrigation supply provided by the melting of the snows of the Andes mountains
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main white grapes varieties : chardonnay, sauvignon
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main red grapes varieties: cabernet sauvignon (dominant), merlot, carménère, pinot noir, syrah
Main wine regions
Located along valleys flowing down from the Andes to the Pacific coast :
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Aconcagua
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Casablanca
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Maipo
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Rappel
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Curico
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Maule
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Itata
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Bio Bio.
Legislation
Since 2002, labeling of denomination of regional origin has been instituted. The indication « Varietal » guarantees that at least 75% in volume (85% for exports) of the wine correspond to the grapes, grape variety and the year of production of the region of denomination. The terms « Reserva » and « Gran Reserva » relate to ageing in oak barrels.
Site : www.winesofchile.org