Chile Theory Flashcards
(452 cards)
1
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is the only DO area in the Casablanca Valley?
A
Casablanca
2
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is the valley’s latitude?
A
33° S
3
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What cooling influence shapes the region’s climate?
A
Humboldt Current and coastal fog (camanchaca) /winds through a Coastal Range gap
4
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is the climate classification on the Winkler Scale?
A
Region I
5
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is the official sector designation for the entire DO?
A
Costa
6
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What are the main grapes planted?
A
Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Syrah
7
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What percentage of vineyard area is white grapes?
A
0.75
8
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What are the most planted varieties and their approximate vineyard area?
A
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, each with over 2,000 ha
9
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is the total vineyard area as of the latest report?
A
About 6,000 ha
10
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What climatic threat is especially significant in spring?
A
Spring frost, lasting into November
11
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What rootstock-related issue is common despite no phylloxera?
A
Nematodes in sandy soils
12
Q
Valle de Casablanca: Why is rootstock necessary in Casablanca?
A
Nematodes can destroy vines; rootstock provides resistance
13
Q
Valle de Casablanca: Who is credited with pioneering the region for wine in the early 1980s?
A
Pablo Morandé
14
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What was the area used for before wine production began?
A
Dairy farms and pastureland
15
Q
Valle de Casablanca: When did Pablo Morandé plant the first vineyards for Concha y Toro?
A
1982
16
Q
Valle de Casablanca: Name two early entrants besides Morandé.
A
Villard (MOVI) and Veramonte (Huneeus family)
17
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What winery does Byron Kosuge consult for?
A
Kingston Family Vineyards
18
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What soils are best for Pinot Noir vineyards in Casablanca?
A
Reddish clays over quartz-rich granite (hillsides)
19
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What soils are common in the valley floor?
A
Sandy loams (more prone to nematodes)
20
Q
Valle de Casablanca: How is Pinot Noir evolving in Casablanca?
A
Focus shifting to site-specific planting and elegance over power
21
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What style shift has occurred for Pinot Noir in recent years?
A
Away from oak-heavy, sun-stretched wines toward more refined expressions
22
Q
Valle de Casablanca: What is limiting further vineyard growth in the region today?
A
Depleted underground irrigation water
23
Q
Valle de San Antonio: What is the only official zone within the DO?
A
Valle de Leyda DO
24
Q
Valle de San Antonio: What are the commune-based subzones of the region?
A
Valle de Leyda DO, Lo Abarca DO, Rosario (unofficial)
25
Valle de San Antonio: What is the most planted grape variety?
Sauvignon Blanc
26
Valle de San Antonio: Approximately what percentage of total vineyard area was Sauvignon Blanc in 2014?
~50%
27
Valle de San Antonio: What is the total vineyard area as of 2014?
About 2,300 ha
28
Valle de San Antonio: What variety is most closely associated with Leyda?
Sauvignon Blanc (thiol-laden, aromatic style)
29
Valle de San Antonio: What other region is Leyda’s Sauvignon Blanc style compared to?
Marlborough, though slightly more subdued
30
Valle de San Antonio: When were the first vines planted in the region?
1998
31
Valle de San Antonio: When were the first wines released from the region?
2001
32
Valle de San Antonio: What producer first planted in Leyda and brought it international attention?
Viña Leyda
33
Valle de San Antonio: What grape-growing challenges are common in Leyda?
Coastal humidity, risk of rot, cool growing temps, wind
34
Valle de San Antonio: How far are most Leyda vineyards from the ocean?
Within 15 km
35
Valle de San Antonio: What are the soils in Leyda?
Alluvial clays
36
Valle de San Antonio: What river provides irrigation water to Leyda?
Maipo River
37
Valle de San Antonio: What is the most extreme subzone for cool climate in San Antonio?
Lo Abarca DO
38
Valle de San Antonio: How close is Lo Abarca to the ocean?
Only 4 km
39
Valle de San Antonio: What producer pioneered Lo Abarca?
Casa Marín (in 2000)
40
Valle de San Antonio: What is the typical growing degree-day (°C) range in Lo Abarca?
~1000 GDD
41
Valle de San Antonio: What is the warmest and most inland subzone?
Rosario
42
Valle de San Antonio: What producer is located in Rosario?
Matetic
43
Valle de San Antonio: What was Matetic the first to plant in the region?
Syrah (in 1999)
44
Valle de San Antonio: When is Syrah typically harvested in Rosario?
Mid-May
45
Valle de San Antonio: What is unique about Matetic’s certification?
Demeter-certified (biodynamic)
46
Valle del Maipo: What are the three unofficial subzones often used to describe the valley?
Alto Maipo, Medio Maipo, Maipo Costa (Maipo Bajo)
47
Valle del Maipo: Which two DOs are classified as Maipo Andes?
Puente Alto and Pirque
48
Valle del Maipo: Are there any official Maipo Costa areas?
No
49
Valle del Maipo: What is the elevation range of Alto Maipo?
400–600 meters or higher
50
Valle del Maipo: What is the most planted variety in the Maipo Valley?
Cabernet Sauvignon (about 50% of 12,500 ha)
51
Valle del Maipo: What is the vineyard area of Maipo Valley?
Approximately 12,500 ha
52
Valle del Maipo: What are the most prestigious Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings from Alto Maipo?
Don Melchor, Almaviva, Viñedo Chadwick, Antiyal, Casa Real
53
Valle del Maipo: What DO area contains the vineyards of Don Melchor, Viñedo Chadwick, and Almaviva?
Puente Alto
54
Valle del Maipo: What type of soils dominate Puente Alto?
Gravelly alluvial soils
55
Valle del Maipo: What kind of exposures and climate do Alto Maipo vineyards typically have?
West-facing, warm afternoons, 20°C diurnal swings, Andean winds
56
Valle del Maipo: What is the typical style of Cabernet Sauvignon from Alto Maipo?
Tannic, concentrated, ripe, Napa-like, lower in acidity
57
Valle del Maipo: What Central Maipo DO area is home to De Martino?
Isla de Maipo
58
Valle del Maipo: What grape often outperforms Cabernet in Medio Maipo and why?
Carmenère, due to finer clay soils and warmer climate
59
Valle del Maipo: What is the status of vineyards in Maipo Costa?
Youngest plantings, and cooler overall
60
Valle del Maipo: Which estates are located in or near Santiago proper?
Santa Carolina (HQ in city), Cousiño Macul (original estate), Concha y Toro (Pirque), Santa Rita (Buin)
61
Valle del Maipo: What effect has Santiago’s urban expansion had on vineyards?
Major wineries sold off land or relocated due to urban sprawl
62
Central Valley: What regions are included in the viticultural Central Valley?
Maipo, Rapel, Curicó, Maule
63
Central Valley: What percentage of Chile’s wine grapes are in the Central Valley?
Over 75%
64
Central Valley: How does rainfall change moving south in the Central Valley?
Increases from ~300 mm (Maipo) to ~750 mm (Maule)
65
Central Valley: What is the climate of the Central Valley?
Semi-arid, warm Mediterranean with winter-dominant rainfall
66
Central Valley: Where is the warmest zone in the Central Valley?
Rapel Valley
67
Central Valley: What Winkler regions correspond to most Entre Cordilleras areas?
Borderline between Region II and III
68
Rapel Valley: What are the two DO zones within Valle del Rapel?
Cachapoal and Colchagua
69
Rapel Valley: What administrative region does Valle del Rapel DO correspond to?
O’Higgins Administrative Region
70
Rapel Valley: What is the Rapel River formed by?
Confluence of Cachapoal and Tinguiririca Rivers
71
Rapel Valley: What major reservoir was created by damming the Rapel River in the 1960s?
Rapel Reservoir
72
Cachapoal: What are the key DO areas in Valle del Cachapoal?
Rancagua, Requínoa, Rengo, Peumo, Machalí, Coltauco
73
Cachapoal: How does the climate of Cachapoal compare to Colchagua and Maipo?
Warmer overall, due to lack of coastal influence
74
Cachapoal: What grape excels in the brown clay and alluvial soils of warm Cachapoal?
Carmenère
75
Cachapoal: What are two notable wines labeled “DO Peumo”?
Herencia (Santa Carolina), Carmín de Peumo (Concha y Toro)
76
Cachapoal: What red grapes rank highest in plantings?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Merlot (though some Merlot may be mislabeled Carmenère)
77
Cachapoal: What producers led the move into Alto Cachapoal?
Altaïr, Anakena
78
Cachapoal: Who planted vineyards at 1000m elevation in Alto Cachapoal?
Pedro Parra (Clos des Fous)
79
Colchagua: What are the key DO areas in Valle de Colchagua?
San Fernando, Chimbarongo, Nancagua, Santa Cruz, Palmilla, Peralillo, Lolol, Marchigüe, Litueche, La Estrella, Paredones, Pumanque, Apalta
80
Colchagua: What are the Costa DO areas of Colchagua?
Lolol, Pumanque, Paredones
81
Colchagua: What are the Andes DO areas of Colchagua?
Chimbarongo, San Fernando
82
Colchagua: What is the second largest DO in Chile by vine acreage?
Colchagua (after Maule)
83
Colchagua: Which two red grapes are most widely planted in Colchagua?
Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère
84
Colchagua: What are the leading white grape and zone for new plantings?
Sauvignon Blanc in coastal areas (Lolol, Pumanque, Paredones)
85
Colchagua: What is the most important DO for high-end red wines?
Apalta
86
Colchagua: What does “Apalta” mean in Mapuche?
Earthquake
87
Colchagua: What are the climatic and geographic advantages of Apalta?
Slightly cooler, reduced sunlight, granitic soils, surrounded by mountains on 3 sides
88
Colchagua: What top wines helped establish Apalta’s reputation?
Clos Apalta (Lapostolle), Alpha M (Montes)
89
Colchagua: What producers moved into Apalta in the 1990s and early 2000s?
Casa Lapostolle, Montes, Viña Las Niñas, Neyen, Ventisquero
90
Colchagua: What is the historical significance of Neyen’s vineyard?
Valley floor vines date to the 1890s
91
Colchagua: Which two southwest DOs expanded rapidly in the late 1990s/2000s?
Marchigüe and Lolol
92
Colchagua: What is the key biodynamic producer in Los Lingues, San Fernando?
Koyle (founded by Undurraga family in 2006)
93
Colchagua: What is notable about Siegel's project in Los Lingues?
Planting a single steep hill amid flat valley floor
94
Colchagua: What style of wines does Colchagua traditionally produce?
Classic, ripe, structured Chilean reds (Cabernet, Carmenère, Syrah, Merlot)
95
Colchagua: Where is viticulture expanding in Colchagua?
Hillsides of Entre Cordilleras, piedmont of Andes, coastal zones
96
Colchagua: What French companies have invested in Colchagua?
Lapostolle, Los Vascos, Hacienda Araucano
97
Curicó: What are the two DO zones of Valle de Curicó?
Valle del Teno, Valle del Lontué
98
Curicó: What are the five DO areas of Valle de Curicó?
Molina, Romeral, Rauco, Sagrada Familia, Vichuquén
99
Curicó: Which DO area in Curicó is the only Costa area?
Vichuquén
100
Curicó: What rivers frame the Curicó Valley?
Teno and Lontué Rivers
101
Curicó: Which town lies between the Teno and Lontué Rivers?
Curicó
102
Curicó: What is the most planted grape in Curicó?
Cabernet Sauvignon
103
Curicó: How does Cabernet Sauvignon typically differ here vs. Colchagua or Maipo?
Less weighty, greener, prone to frost and autumn rain
104
Curicó: What grape ranks second in acreage but may be misidentified?
Sauvignon Blanc (some of it is likely Sauvignon Vert/Friulano)
105
Curicó: What white and red varieties are planted here besides Cabernet Sauvignon?
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Chardonnay, Carmenère
106
Curicó: Why does Carmenère struggle more in Curicó than further north?
Cooler climate and less heat accumulation
107
Curicó: What is the approximate total vineyard area of Curicó?
~20,000 hectares
108
Curicó: What major producer is headquartered in Curicó?
San Pedro
109
Curicó: Where did Miguel Torres establish his winery in 1979?
Valle de Curicó
110
Curicó: What is the name of Miguel Torres’ old vine Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard?
Manso de Velasco
111
Curicó: What is the primary soil type in Curicó’s interior vineyards?
Heavy clay soils
112
Curicó: What does it signify that Viña Echeverría doesn’t use “Curicó” on its labels?
Image/marketing problem for the region
113
Curicó: What coastal subregion in Curicó has schist soils and ocean breezes?
Curicó Costa (Vichuquén)
114
Curicó: Why is Curicó Costa not more developed for wine?
Incredibly remote, long travel times via back roads
115
Curicó: What is the trend for new Sauvignon Blanc plantings in Curicó?
Moving into Andes areas, not coastal
116
Maule: What are the three DO zones of Valle del Maule?
Valle del Claro, Valle del Loncomilla, Valle del Tutuvén
117
Maule: Name five key DO areas within Valle del Maule.
Empedrado, Curepto, Talca, San Javier, Cauquenes (others: Pencahue, San Rafael, Villa Alegre, Parral, Linares, Longaví, Retiro, San Clemente, Colbún)
118
Maule: How do vineyards in Maule differ in ownership structure compared to the north?
Smaller parcels, less likely to be under single ownership
119
Maule: What does parron training typically indicate?
Table grape production (e.g., Sultana, Crimson, Flame Seedless)
120
Maule: What type of trellising is used for wine grapes in Maule?
Modified VSP trellising
121
Maule: What was the historical irrigation method in the central valley and Andean foothills of Maule?
Furrow irrigation
122
Maule: What is the source of the Maule River?
Laguna del Maule in the Andes
123
Maule: How are soils different between the Maule River and coast?
Alluvial near river; red, granitic, and quartz-rich near the coast
124
Maule: What proportion of Chile’s wine production comes from the Maule Valley?
Over 25%
125
Maule: Which DO subregion has the most vine acreage after Rapel Valley?
Maule Valley
126
Maule: What grape is most planted in Maule?
Cabernet Sauvignon
127
Maule: What grape does winemaker Camilo Viano suggest may be Maule’s flagship?
Cabernet Franc
128
Maule: What is the second-most planted grape variety in Maule?
País
129
Maule: What grape is found as old bush vines near Cauquenes and the coast?
Carignan
130
Maule: What are the characteristics of Carignan from Maule?
Low pH, highly tannic; sometimes softened with carbonic maceration
131
Maule: Which old-vine white variety is surprisingly successful in Maule?
Sémillon
132
Maule: What red grape is also found in old vines here besides Carignan?
Malbec
133
Maule: What climate influence begins to reassert itself this far south?
Natural acidity in wines
134
Maule: How is Maule’s reputation shifting in recent years?
From bulk wine behemoth to exciting region with heritage vines
135
Maule: Do most major Chilean producers source fruit from Maule?
Yes, virtually all major producers have vineyards or source fruit here
136
VIGNO: What does the acronym VIGNO stand for?
Vignadores de Carignan
137
VIGNO: What event triggered the formation of VIGNO?
The 2010 Maule earthquake
138
VIGNO: What is the mission of VIGNO?
Preserve old-vine Carignan and support small growers in western Maule
139
VIGNO: What were traditional blends using Carignan in the region known as?
Pipeños and bordeos (local blends often including Carignan, Cinsault, and País)
140
VIGNO: Why was Carignan originally planted in western Maule?
To support País by improving acidity and color after the 1939 Chillán earthquake
141
VIGNO: In which Chilean valley is VIGNO focused?
Western Maule, specifically the *secano interior*
142
VIGNO: How are VIGNO Carignan vines typically trained and farmed?
Head-trained (cabeza), own-rooted, dry-farmed
143
VIGNO: What are the planting characteristics of traditional Carignan vines in Maule?
Wide spacing (2x2 meters or more), head-trained, dry-farmed
144
VIGNO: What are the core viticultural requirements to label a wine as VIGNO?
Minimum 85% Carignan, dry-farmed, head-trained, at least 30 years old (grafted accepted)
145
VIGNO: What are the requirements for the remaining 15% of a VIGNO wine?
Must be other old-vine, head-trained, dry-farmed fruit from Maule
146
VIGNO: What is the aging requirement for VIGNO-labeled wines?
Minimum 2 years prior to release (any aging vessel or method)
147
VIGNO: Are there tasting panels or other regulatory bodies controlling VIGNO wines?
No tasting panels; association controls branding use
148
VIGNO: What future legal designation is VIGNO seeking?
Chile’s first official DOC appellation
149
VIGNO: What would approval of VIGNO as a DOC mean for Chile?
Potential model for future terroir-based DOCs (e.g., Itata Cinsault, Maule País)
150
VIGNO: Approximately how many hectares of old-vine Carignan exist in western Maule?
550–600 ha
151
VIGNO: What inspired the quote “Because it was there”?
Ricardo Baettig (Morandé winemaker), explaining the embrace of Carignan by VIGNO
152
Zona Sur: What is the latitude range of the Zona Sur wine region in Chile?
36°–38° S
153
Zona Sur: What climate transition occurs in Zona Sur?
From warm Mediterranean to cooler, rainier maritime conditions
154
Zona Sur: What percentage of Chile's vineyard acreage is in Sur DO?
Just over 10%
155
Zona Sur: What is the population and industrial center of Zona Sur?
Concepción
156
Valle del Itata: What are the key areas of the Valle del Itata DO?
Portezuelo, Coelemu, Chillán, Quillón
157
Valle del Itata: Which rivers influence the Itata Valley?
Itata and Ñuble Rivers
158
Valle del Itata: What are the key grape varieties traditionally planted in Itata?
País (red), Moscatel de Alejandría, Cinsault
159
Valle del Itata: How old are many País, Cinsault, and Moscatel vines in Itata?
60–80 years; País vines can be hundreds of years old
160
Valle del Itata: How are vineyards traditionally managed in Itata?
Gobelet-trained, dry-farmed, small family plots (~2 ha), often field blends
161
Valle del Itata: What modern varieties are being explored in Itata?
Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
162
Valle del Itata: Why are Itata vineyards under threat?
Forestry companies seeking land for pine plantations
163
Valle del Bío-Bío: What are the key areas of the Valle del Bío-Bío DO?
Yumbel, Mulchén
164
Valle del Bío-Bío: What makes the climate of Bío-Bío different from Itata?
More rainfall, greater temperature variation, diminished coastal influence
165
Valle del Bío-Bío: What are the main modern grape varieties in Bío-Bío?
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, aromatic whites
166
Valle del Bío-Bío: How is Bío-Bío’s development pace compared to Itata?
More rapid modernization
167
Valle del Malleco: What is the only DO in La Araucanía Administrative Region?
Valle del Malleco DO
168
Valle del Malleco: What is the key town in Valle del Malleco DO?
Traigúen
169
Valle del Malleco: What are the main grapes in Malleco?
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
170
Valle del Malleco: What is the major climate challenge in Malleco?
Cool, rainy, and windy semi-continental climate
171
Valle del Malleco: What is a major barrier to wine investment in Malleco?
Civil unrest and land conflicts involving the Mapuche people
172
Austral DO: What are the two official subregions of Austral DO?
Valle del Cautín, Valle de Osorno
173
Austral DO: Who was the first producer to use Austral DO on a label?
Casa Silva (from Lake Ranco vineyards)
174
Austral DO: What is the annual rainfall at Lake Ranco?
1800 mm (70 inches)
175
Austral DO: What is the world’s southernmost vineyard?
Undurraga’s experimental vineyard in Chile Chico at the 46th parallel
176
Austral DO: What varieties are planted in Austral DO?
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
177
Chile: What two new DOs were approved in 2024 outside mainland Chile?
Rapa Nui DO (Pacific), Chiloé DO (Patagonia)
178
Valle del Choapa: What are the key areas of the DO?
Salamanca, Illapel
179
Valle del Choapa: What is the southernmost DO of the Coquimbo region?
Valle del Choapa DO
180
Valle del Choapa: How many hectares of wine grapes were planted as of 2015?
About 100 ha
181
Valle del Choapa: What is the geography of the Choapa region?
Mountainous and narrowest part of Chile
182
Valle del Choapa: Who is the largest vineyard owner in Choapa?
De Martino
183
Valle del Choapa: What is the only winery currently based in the region?
Domaine de Manson
184
Valle del Choapa: What group is Domaine de Manson a member of?
MOVI (Movimiento de Viñateros Independientes)
185
Valle del Aconcagua: What administrative region does Aconcagua correspond to?
Valparaíso Region
186
Valle del Aconcagua: What are the three primary DO subregions in the Aconcagua wine region?
Aconcagua Valley, Casablanca Valley, San Antonio Valley
187
Valle del Aconcagua: What two smaller areas are also included in the region?
Valle del Marga-Marga and Zapallar
188
Valle del Aconcagua: What is the origin of the name Aconcagua?
Aconcagua River, named after Mt. Aconcagua in Argentina
189
Valle del Aconcagua: What river defines the region?
Aconcagua River
190
Valle del Aconcagua: What are the DO areas of the valley?
Hijuelas, Panquehue, Catemu, Llaillay, San Felipe, Santa María, Calle Larga, Quillota, San Esteban
191
Valle del Aconcagua: What are the three sectors included in the valley’s topography?
Andes, Entre Cordilleras, Costa
192
Valle del Aconcagua: What obstructs ocean air from reaching the interior of the valley?
High peaks of the Coastal Range (up to 3,000 meters)
193
Valle del Aconcagua: What soil types are found in the coastal areas?
Schist and slate
194
Valle del Aconcagua: What style of wines are best in the Costa area?
Refreshing white wines (e.g. Sauvignon Blanc)
195
Valle del Aconcagua: What grapes are better suited to the warm eastern sector near San Felipe and Los Andes?
Grenache, Mourvèdre
196
Valle del Aconcagua: What grapes thrive in the Entre Cordilleras nooks and hillsides?
Bordeaux-style varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon
197
Valle del Aconcagua: What is the total vineyard area as of 2019?
Fewer than 1,500 ha
198
Valle del Aconcagua: What is the most important producer in the valley?
Viña Errázuriz
199
Valle del Aconcagua: What wine was created by Errázuriz in partnership with Robert Mondavi in the 1990s?
Seña
200
Valle del Aconcagua: What was the significance of the Berlin Tasting in 2004?
Viñedo Chadwick and Seña outperformed Lafite and Margaux in a blind tasting
201
Valle del Aconcagua: What are the three most planted grape varieties?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenère
202
Valle del Aconcagua: What white grape is gaining ground due to coastal plantings?
Sauvignon Blanc
203
Valle del Aconcagua: What year was Viña Errázuriz founded?
1870
204
Atacama: What is the average annual rainfall in the Atacama Desert?
15 mm
205
Atacama: What are the two provinces with viticulture in the Atacama DO?
Huasco and Copiapó
206
Atacama: What are the two DOs in the Atacama Region?
Valle del Huasco DO and Valle de Copiapó DO
207
Atacama: What type of grape production dominates in Atacama?
Table grapes and pisco distillate
208
Atacama: What winery has experimental wine grape projects in Huasco?
Viña Ventisquero
209
Atacama: What wine grapes are planted in Valle del Huasco?
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc
210
Atacama: What challenges does Atacama face for agriculture?
Water scarcity and competition with mining
211
Pisco: When did Chile receive an appellation of origin for Pisco?
1931
212
Pisco: What five grapes are used in Chilean Pisco production?
Moscatel, Moscatel Rosado, Moscatel de Austria, Torontel, Pedro Jiménez
213
Pisco: What region in Chile was renamed to support the Pisco DO?
Pisco Elqui
214
Pisco: What is the preferred cocktail among young Chileans?
Piscola (Pisco and Coke)
215
Pisco: What citrus is preferred in a Chilean Pisco Sour?
Pica lemon
216
Pisco: How does Chilean Pisco Sour differ from Peruvian?
No egg white or bitters
217
Ceviche: What style of ceviche is more popular in Chile today?
Peruvian-style with red onion, corn, chile, and bitter orange
218
Ceviche: How does traditional Chilean ceviche differ?
Marinates longer, fish discolors
219
Norte Chico: What are the three DOs of the Coquimbo region?
Elqui Valley, Limarí Valley, Choapa Valley
220
Norte Chico: What latitudes does the Coquimbo region span?
30°–32° S
221
Norte Chico: What geographic features make Coquimbo Chile’s narrowest and most mountainous sector?
The Andes press close to the coast and transverse river valleys cut through the region
222
Norte Chico: What major issue threatens agriculture in Coquimbo?
Severe drought and diminishing snowmelt
223
Norte Chico: What proportion of some reservoirs in Elqui were reported at during the 2015 drought?
10–20% of capacity
224
Valle del Elqui: What is the northernmost and driest DO of Coquimbo?
Valle del Elqui DO
225
Valle del Elqui: What are the three major areas in the Elqui Valley?
La Serena, Vicuña, Paiguano
226
Valle del Elqui: What is the annual rainfall in the Elqui Valley?
Less than 100 mm
227
Valle del Elqui: What reservoir helps irrigate the valley?
Puclaro Reservoir
228
Valle del Elqui: What is the elevation range of vineyards in Vicuña and Paiguano?
Above 500 meters; up to 2,200 meters
229
Valle del Elqui: What is the highest vineyard elevation in Chile?
2,200 meters (Viñedos de Alcohuaz)
230
Valle del Elqui: What temperature swings are typical in the high vineyards of Elqui?
Daytime up to 32°C, nighttime down to 10°C
231
Valle del Elqui: What grape has emerged as an early favorite in Elqui Valley?
Syrah
232
Valle del Elqui: What was the first winery to pivot from Pisco to wine in Elqui?
Viña Falernia
233
Valle del Elqui: What is Viña Falernia’s reference wine for Syrah?
Alta Tierra
234
Valle del Elqui: What white grapes are also showing promise in Elqui?
Sauvignon Blanc, Pedro Ximénez
235
Valle del Elqui: Who are the winemakers behind Viñedos de Alcohuaz?
Marcelo Retamal and Patricio Flaño
236
Valle del Elqui: What winemaking methods are used by Viñedos de Alcohuaz?
Foot-crushing in stone lagars, aging in concrete eggs
237
Valle del Elqui: What was the second winery to operate in Elqui Valley?
Cavas del Valle (est. 2003)
238
Valle del Limarí: What are the key areas of the DO?
Ovalle, Monte Patria, Punitaqui, Río Hurtado
239
Valle del Limarí: What is the signature grape variety of Limarí?
Chardonnay
240
Valle del Limarí: What type of soils are found in Limarí?
Red clay over limestone (calcareous soils)
241
Valle del Limarí: What two coastal openings allow maritime influence into Limarí?
Gaps below Tongoy Bay (north) and Talinay Hills (west)
242
Valle del Limarí: What is the climatic limit cited for winegrowing, which Limarí approaches?
30th parallel south
243
Valle del Limarí: What is the temperature range in January in western Limarí?
Rarely exceeds 24–25° C
244
Valle del Limarí: What is the name of the fog that blankets Limarí’s mornings?
Camanchaca
245
Valle del Limarí: What is the main viticultural subregion currently marked as Costa?
Ovalle
246
Valle del Limarí: What two rivers feed the Limarí River?
Río Hurtado and Río Grande
247
Valle del Limarí: What winery established the first modern wine production in the region in 1993?
Francisco de Aguirre (originally by Capel, now owned by Concha y Toro)
248
Valle del Limarí: Who is the winemaker from Concha y Toro known for praising Limarí?
Marcelo Papa
249
Valle del Limarí: What style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir does Marcelo Papa associate with Limarí?
Austere character, more so than Casablanca
250
Valle del Limarí: What two other early entrants began producing fruit in the 1990s?
Casa Tamaya and Tabalí
251
Valle del Limarí: How many hectares were under vine in Limarí by 2015?
Over 3,000 ha
252
Valle del Limarí: What are the key red grapes still planted in Limarí?
Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah
253
Valle del Limarí: What features make Limarí viable for cool-climate varieties?
Coastal proximity and fog-moderated temperatures
254
Valle del Aconcagua: What year was Viña Errázuriz founded?
1870
255
As of 2017, what percentage of Chile’s vineyard land was planted to red grapes?
Nearly 75%
256
Which grape varieties follow Cabernet Sauvignon in vineyard plantings?
Merlot, Carmenère, Syrah, País
257
What are the two most important white grapes for wine production in Chile?
Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
258
Where are Pisco and table grapes primarily grown in Chile?
Northern grapegrowing regions
259
When did Carmenère likely arrive in Chile?
In the 19th century, prior to the phylloxera outbreak in France
260
Until what year was Carmenère mistakenly labeled as Merlot in Chile?
Until 1994
261
Who correctly identified 'Merlot Chileno' as Carmenère in 1994?
Jean-Michel Boursiquot
262
Where was Carmenère rediscovered in 1994?
Viña Carmen, Maipo Valley
263
What are key differences between Carmenère and Merlot?
Carmenère ripens later, has tighter clusters, red autumn leaves, and prefers warmer sites
264
Why did Carmenère disappear in France but survive in Chile?
It is difficult to graft, making it vulnerable to phylloxera in France but thriving on own roots in Chile
265
What type of soil do both Carmenère and Merlot prefer?
Humid clay soils
266
What is essential for Carmenère to ripen fully in Chile?
Warm sites and dry weather through mid-May
267
How did mislabeling Carmenère as Merlot affect Chilean winemaking?
It limited understanding of proper site, clone, soil, and vineyard management for Carmenère
268
What does modern DNA analysis say about Carmenère?
It is a progeny grape
269
What is the likely origin of the name 'Carmenère'?
From 'carmine,' referring to the red color of the vine’s autumn leaves
270
What synonym did Santa Rita initially use when labeling Carmenère?
Grand Vidure
271
Carmenère: What is one of its parents that is an offspring of Fer and Hondarribi Beltza?
A little-known grape that is itself a 'grandson' of Cabernet Franc
272
Carmenère: What compound is responsible for its green character?
3-isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine (IBMP)
273
Carmenère: Why does it contain more IBMP than any other Bordeaux variety?
It inherited high levels from both of its parents
274
Carmenère: When do IBMP levels peak in the grape?
At véraison
275
Carmenère: What helps reduce IBMP levels in the vineyard?
Sunlight and extended hang time
276
Carmenère: When is it usually harvested in Chile?
In May, two to three weeks after Cabernet Sauvignon
277
Carmenère: Why do growers remove leaves around clusters?
To expose fruit to sun and reduce pyrazines
278
Carmenère: What is the tradeoff of too much leaf removal?
Loss of acidity and aroma
279
Carmenère: What is Carmenère's natural pH compared to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?
Typically 0.1–0.2 higher
280
Carmenère: What yield per vine is considered too high for full ripening?
More than 2 kg per vine
281
Carmenère: What are alternative leaf removal strategies being explored?
Removing leaves before véraison to expose green clusters
282
Carmenère: What is the profile of a classic varietal Carmenère wine?
Pyrazine, bitter dark chocolate, dark fruit, deep color
283
Carmenère: Is cold maceration common for Carmenère?
No, it is rarely practiced
284
Carmenère: How are fermentation temperatures typically handled?
Hot fermentation to reduce bitterness and soften tannins
285
Carmenère: What winemaking technique is used to combat its reductive tendencies?
Micro-oxygenation and racking
286
Carmenère: Is new oak used in entry-level wines?
No, but it is common in high-end bottlings
287
Carmenère: Name two 'icon' bottlings that use Carmenère.
Clos Apalta and Almaviva
288
Carmenère: Name two varietal bottlings of Carmenère.
Errázuriz 'Kai' and Concha y Toro 'Carmín de Peumo'
289
Carmenère: What are top vineyard areas for the grape?
Peumo (Cachapoal), Los Lingues and Apalta (Colchagua)
290
Carmenère: What is its ranking in red and total vineyard plantings in Chile?
3rd among reds, 5th overall
291
Carmenère: What Chilean dish pairs well with it?
Pastel de choclo (sweet corn with beef, onion, and olives)
292
Carmenère: What international cuisine does it pair surprisingly well with?
Highly spiced Indian cuisine
293
Carmenère: How is the perception of Carmenère evolving in the US?
Still struggles with stereotypes but improving with refinement
294
Carmenère: What does its trajectory mirror?
The evolution of Chile’s wine industry as a whole
295
País: What is another name for País?
Mission grape
296
País: How many hectares were still planted as of 2014?
Over 7,000 ha
297
País: Is the grape name currently allowed on DO labels in Chile?
No, it is forbidden
298
País: What type of inexpensive local wine does País often go into?
Pipeño blends
299
País: How are pipeños typically described?
Occasionally fizzy, very fresh, best chilled, made from old vines
300
País: How old can País vines be in these pipeños?
100–300 years old
301
País: What is one producer making a sparkling rosé from País?
Miguel Torres
302
País: Which producers are promoting País as a quality still red?
J. Bouchon, Louis Antoine-Luyt, González Bastías
303
País: What are the typical traits of red País in the glass?
Light color with elevated tannin, almost Italian in style
304
País: What other old-vine grapes are gaining renewed interest alongside País?
Carignan, Cinsault, and Moscatel
305
According to Cecilia Guzmán
how should Chile be divided climatically? Into three vertical zones: coast
306
What oceanic current influences Chile’s coastal climate?
The Humboldt Current.
307
How does the Humboldt Current affect the Chilean coast?
It cools air temperatures limits precipitation
308
What is the impact of the Humboldt Current on diurnal variation along the coast?
It moderates temperature swings keeping afternoons cooler and nights relatively mild.
309
How much cooler can Valparaíso be in the summer compared to Santiago?
Afternoon temperatures may be 10–15° C lower.
310
Why are Chile’s coastal temperatures lower than equivalent latitudes in Mexico or California?
Due to the cold Pacific Ocean and the Humboldt Current.
311
How do rivers contribute to climate moderation in Chile?
They create gaps in the Coastal Range allowing cool sea breezes to sweep inland and dissipate morning fogs.
312
What limits maritime influence in many Chilean valleys?
The valleys often trace uneven erratic paths
313
Why are vineyards near the Andes not typically influenced by coastal breezes?
Because coastal winds do not reach that far east across the mountainous terrain.
314
What phenomenon helps moderate heat in Chile’s eastern vineyards?
Afternoon Andean winds that race down the slopes.
315
What are the climatic conditions of Chile’s easternmost vineyards?
Greater seasonal extremes higher diurnal shifts
316
What tectonic interaction is responsible for Chile’s geology?
The subduction of the Nazca Plate beneath the South American Plate.
317
What trench marks the boundary between the Nazca and South American Plates?
The Peru-Chile Trench 8
318
What geological formation results from the plate subduction and is associated with Chile’s seismic activity?
The Andes Mountains a volcanic arc on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
319
What causes the formation of the Coastal Range in Chile?
Accretion and folding of material scraped from the oceanic Nazca Plate.
320
What types of soils are found in the Chilean Coastal Range?
Thin horizontal layers of granite schist
321
What is the primary geological origin of the Andes Mountains?
Volcanic activity primarily extrusive rocks like basalt and andesite.
322
Where in Chile are the Andes’ volcanic origins most evident in wine regions?
Southern regions such as Bío Bío and Osorno.
323
What soils dominate the intermediate depression (Central Valley) of Chile?
Clays and loams transported from volcanic sediments by rivers and ancient glaciers.
324
How do Coastal Range soils compare in age to soils near the Andes?
Coastal Range soils are older and more weathered.
325
What is the dominant parent rock of Chile’s Coastal Range?
Granite and metamorphic schist.
326
How does granite in Leyda compare to granite in Bío Bío?
In Leyda granite is ~100 million years old with high quartz content; in Bío Bío
327
How do granite soils compare to alluvial gravels in inland valleys?
Granite soils are less fertile and less forgiving offering more consistent expression than variable alluvial gravels.
328
What metaphor does Pedro Parra use to contrast granite and alluvial soils?
Gravels are like politicians; you go right or left depending on the year. Granite is what it is—you get what you get.
329
What law defines Chile’s rules for beverage alcohol production including wine?
Law #18
330
What is the minimum ABV for a beverage to be legally considered wine in Chile?
11.5% alcohol by volume.
331
What decree regulates permitted enological practices and additives in Chilean wine?
Decree #78 of 1986.
332
What agency enforces compliance with Chilean wine labeling laws?.
Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service
333
When was Chile’s Denominación de Origen (DO) system introduced?
1994 (via Agricultural Decree #464) effective in 1995.
334
What are the four tiers of Chile’s DO system?
Viticultural region subregion
335
What is the largest and broadest DO tier in Chile?
Región Vitícola (viticultural region).
336
Name the six current viticultural regions of Chile.
Atacama Coquimbo
337
What is the most common DO type found on Chilean wine labels?
Subregion DOs.
338
What is the smallest DO type in Chile?
Viticultural area typically coterminous with a single comuna.
339
What example illustrates the DO hierarchy in the Central Valley?
Valle Central > Valle del Maipo > Puente Alto.
340
Why are producers reluctant to list area or commune DOs on wine labels?
Consumers may find them too obscure or not meaningful.
341
What is Francisco Baettig’s criticism of Chile’s DO system?
Comunas are too large; Chile needs smaller more specific locations for real regional identity.
342
What does a DO signify in Chile?
Geographic origin only (not quality or style).
343
What is the minimum percentage of grapes required from a region for DO labeling?
75% (though 85% is standard practice for export markets).
344
What percentage minimum is required for varietal and vintage labeling in Chile?
75% though 85% is used in practice to match EU standards.
345
Can País appear on DO labels in Chile?
No it is currently excluded.
346
What does Chile’s DO law use to define sweetness levels?
EU standards (e.g. seco
347
What “quality” labeling terms are legally defined but practically meaningless in Chile?
Reserva and Gran Reserva
348
What is the practical implication of labeling a Chilean wine “Reserva” or “Gran Reserva”?
Usually indicates a low-tier wine (~$9.99 or $14.99 price points).
349
What major change was made to Chile’s DO law in 2012? Creation of Costa
Entre Cordilleras
350
What regions were added as viticultural regions in 2012?
Atacama and Austral.
351
What do the Costa
Entre Cordilleras
352
What is the minimum percentage of grapes required for using Costa
Andes
353
What is the intended consumer benefit of the 2012 complementary indications?
To better communicate wine style based on east-west geography rather than latitude.
354
What is the most planted wine grape variety in Chile?
Cabernet Sauvignon
355
How large was Chile’s wine production by 2012–2013?
Over 1,250,000 hl, with around 60% exported.
356
What are Chile’s top wine export markets?
USA, UK, China, and Japan.
357
Name prominent American winemakers consulting or working in Chile.
Paul Hobbs, Randy Ullom, Byron Kosuge, Ken Bernards.
358
Which Burgundy producers or consultants are involved in Chilean wine?
William Fèvre (William Fèvre Chile, 1991), Martin Prieur (Jacques Prieur), Pascal Marchand, Louis-Michel Liger-Belair.
359
How has international influence shaped Chile’s white wine production?
White winemaking quality has increased significantly due to shared expertise and dual harvest experience.
360
What unique opportunity benefits Chilean winemakers?
The ability to work two harvests per year—one in Chile and one in the Northern Hemisphere.
361
What is Aristos, and who are its key figures?
A Chilean winery co-founded by Pedro Parra and Louis-Michel Liger-Belair.
362
Why is Chile sometimes called a 'viticultural paradise'?
Due to its phylloxera-free status, favorable climate, and increasing winemaking expertise.
363
How has the alcohol content of Chilean red wines changed since the 1990s?
Increased from around 12% in the 1990s to 14–15% today.
364
What stylistic shift occurred in Chilean red wines due to international influence?
Wines changed from lighter, unoaked, vegetal styles to full-bodied, deeply colored wines with high alcohol and heavy oak.
365
What was the perception of early Chilean wines by UK and US buyers?
They were considered green and underdeveloped in style.
366
Which global wine style did Chilean reds begin to emulate in the 1990s?
Napa Valley reds—powerful, oaky, and high in alcohol.
367
What is the current turning point in Chilean wine style?
A move toward fresher, lower-alcohol, less oak-driven, more gastronomic wines.
368
Why is acidity important in modern Chilean winemaking?
Good acidity ensures freshness, longevity, and food compatibility.
369
What alcohol levels are targeted by modern Chilean winemakers for freshness?
12.5–13% ABV.
370
Which winemakers are driving the shift toward fresher, food-friendly Chilean wines?
Marcelo Papa (Concha y Toro), Francisco Baettig (Errázuriz), Felipe Muller (Tabalí), Rodrigo Soto (Veramonte).
371
What defines a 'gastronomic' wine according to Chile’s new wave of winemakers?
Wines with tension, moderate alcohol, and food compatibility—not overly rich or oaky.
372
What market factors are influencing this new direction in Chilean wine style?
The rise of a younger, globally-informed sommelier generation, especially in the US, often active on social media.
373
What is the core challenge in making fresher wines in Chile?
Avoiding overt greenness while maintaining acidity and balance.
374
What stylistic diversity does the author suggest Chile must now offer?
Both powerful, oak-matured wines and more elegant, food-friendly wines.
375
What are the approximate latitudinal boundaries of mainland Chile?
Between 17° S and 53° S.
376
How long is Chile's coastline?
Approximately 4,300 km.
377
What is the maximum width of continental Chile?
Never exceeds 350 km.
378
What natural barriers isolate Chile geographically?
Andes Mountains (east), Atacama Desert (north), Pacific Ocean (west), fjords and glaciers (south).
379
How many geographic sectors is Chile divided into?
Five: Norte Grande, Norte Chico, Zona Central, Zona Sur, and Zona Austral.
380
Over what latitudinal range are wine grapes cultivated in Chile?
From approximately 27° S (Copiapó, Norte Chico) to 42° S (Chiloé DO).
381
Where does most viticulture in Chile occur?
Within a one- to three-hour drive from Santiago, in Zona Central.
382
What percentage of Chile’s population lives in Santiago?
More than one-third.
383
How many administrative regions does Chile have in total?
Fifteen.
384
In how many administrative regions is commercial winegrowing currently practiced?
Nine.
385
Name the nine Chilean administrative regions with commercial winegrowing.
Atacama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Santiago, O’Higgins, Maule, Bío Bío, La Araucanía, Los Lagos.
386
Which two administrative regions comprise Norte Chico?
Atacama (Region III) and Coquimbo (Region IV).
387
Which administrative regions comprise Zona Central for viticulture?
Valparaíso (Region V), Santiago Metro, O’Higgins (Region VI), Maule (Region VII).
388
Which administrative regions comprise Zona Sur for viticulture?
Bío Bío (Region VIII), La Araucanía (Region IX), Los Lagos (Region X).
389
Does Chile’s administrative map always correspond to its DO viticultural map?
No; some administrative regions and geographic sectors do not align with DO regions.
390
What is an example of a region whose geographic sector and DO region do not match?
Osorno Valley lies in Zona Sur geographically but in the Austral DO viticulturally.
391
What are the two major mountain ranges that frame Chile's wine regions?
The Andes Mountains (east) and the Coastal Range (Cordilleras de la Costa) (west).
392
What percentage of Chile’s total landmass is covered by mountains?
Approximately 80%.
393
What is the elevation of the highest peaks in the Andes in Chile?
Over 6,000 meters.
394
What is the approximate elevation of the highest peaks in Chile's Coastal Range?
Up to 3,100 meters.
395
What is the intermediate depression in Chile?
A longitudinal valley between the Andes and Coastal Range, stretching most of the country’s length.
396
What is the viticulturally important part of the intermediate depression?
The Central Valley, from Santiago to southern Maule.
397
Where are Chile’s highest Andean peaks located?
In Norte Chico.
398
How do the Andes and Coastal Range change as you travel south in Chile?
They gradually diminish in height.
399
Where does the intermediate depression disappear beneath the sea?
At the Gulf of Ancud, 100 km south of Osorno.
400
What are the three basic climatic zones of Chile from north to south?
Norte Chico: hot and arid; Zona Central: warm Mediterranean; Zona Sur: cool, rainy, maritime.
401
When was Chile's Denominación de Origen (DO) system introduced?
1994.
402
What natural features influenced the naming of Chilean DOs?
River pathways flowing from the Andes to the Pacific.
403
How are most Chilean DO boundaries structured geographically?
They follow east-west river paths and adopt political borders.
404
Why did producers begin to move away from valley-based classifications in the 1990s–2000s?
Proximity to the Pacific or Andes was found to be more climatically influential than latitude.
405
What role did Hernán Cortés play in early New World viticulture?
He reiterated the Spanish decree that ships carry vine cuttings and set vineyard quotas in encomiendas after conquering the Aztecs.
406
Where did viticulture first succeed in South America?
Peru, where vineyards spread along the coast using Incan irrigation and by the 1560s totaled around 40,000 ha.
407
What was the main use for Peruvian grapes by the 1700s?
Brandy production, known locally as Pisco.
408
Who founded Santiago and promoted viticulture in Chile?
Pedro de Valdivia, who annexed the Copiapó Valley and whose soldiers planted vineyards in central Chile.
409
What indigenous group resisted Spanish conquest in southern Chile?
The Mapuche, who revolted in the late 16th century and repurposed vineyards for chicha production.
410
How much wine was Chile producing by the 1590s?
Reportedly 100,000 arrobas annually (~800,000 liters).
411
Which grape was brought from the Canary Islands to Peru and then likely to Chile?
País (Mission), introduced by Jesuit Francisco de Carabantes.
412
When did vine cuttings first arrive in Argentina and from where?
In 1556, brought from La Serena in Chile by missionary Juan Cedrón.
413
Why did Spain try to limit viticulture in the Americas?
To protect its domestic export markets and maintain control over colonial economies.
414
What was the result of King Philip II’s 1595 planting ban and later restrictions?
Largely ignored west of the Andes; viticulture expanded, and imports from Spain declined significantly.
415
Who led Chile to independence in 1818?
Bernardo O’Higgins, son of an Irish-born Spaniard and leader in the fight against Spanish royalists.
416
What happened to Chile's colonial social structure after independence?
It remained largely intact, with vineyards and haciendas controlled by a small elite class.
417
Which cultures influenced the Chilean elite's wine preferences post-independence?
French culture and wines, especially Bordeaux and Burgundy varieties.
418
Who brought French grapevine cuttings to Chile in the 1830s and where were they planted?
French naturalist Claude Gay; planted in Santiago’s Quinta Normal agricultural station.
419
Which early wineries replaced Spanish varieties with French grapes?
Viña La Rosa (est. 1824) and Carta Vieja (est. 1825).
420
Which grapes were introduced from France to Chile in the 1800s?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Sauvignon Blanc/Vert, Chardonnay, and Sémillon.
421
Who is often considered the 'father of Chilean wine'?
Silvestre Ochagavía, who founded Viña Ochagavía in 1851 after visiting France.
422
Where were most Chilean vineyards located by the mid-1800s?
Around Concepción, Aconcagua Valley, Cauquenes (Maule), and less so near Santiago/Maipo.
423
What trend was initiated by Viña Ochagavía and later replicated?
Modern wineries centered near Santiago with French winemaking influence and elite ownership.
424
What were some major wineries founded in the late 1800s?
Cousiño Macul (1856), Viña San Pedro (1865), Viña Errázuriz (1870), Santa Carolina (1875), Santa Rita (1880), Concha y Toro (1883), Undurraga (1885).
425
What was the common background of many 19th-century winery founders in Chile?
Wealth from mining, French cultural influence, and political involvement.
426
Who was Maximiano Errázuriz and what was his background?
A politician and founder of Viña Errázuriz; linked to copper mining and elite political families, traveled to Paris before returning to Chile.
427
What is MOVI and when was it founded?
MOVI (Movimiento de Viñateros Independientes) is an association of small, quality-oriented Chilean wineries founded in 2009.
428
What is the philosophy behind MOVI?
To make wine personally and on a human scale, emphasizing small-scale, winemaker-driven production.
429
Who typically pours wine at MOVI promotional events?
The winemaker themselves, rather than promotional staff.
430
Why is MOVI membership significant in Chile?
It indicates small size and hands-on winemaking in a country dominated by massive producers.
431
Name some notable MOVI member wineries.
Garage Wine Co., Montsecano, Von Siebenthal, Sigla, Kingston, Garcia + Schwaderer.
432
What does MOVI membership signal more than a stylistic trend?
A commitment to small-scale, personally managed production.
433
How do vineyard ownership and political power interrelate historically in Chile?
Vineyards historically signaled wealth and sophistication, reinforcing elite control and influence.
434
How much of domestic Chilean wine consumption is controlled by the top three producers?
Approximately 85% is controlled by Concha y Toro, Santa Rita, and San Pedro.
435
Which company has the largest vineyard holdings in South America?
Concha y Toro, with over 9,000 ha in Chile and Argentina.
436
What defines a 'medium'-sized winery in Chile?
A winery producing around one million cases annually.
437
What defines a 'small' winery in Chile?
A winery producing around 100,000 cases annually.
438
How do Chile’s largest producers affect global perception?
They shape global views of Chilean wine through scale, marketing power, and dominance in all price tiers.
439
What challenge do small artisan producers face in Chile?
Difficulty gaining visibility due to dominance of large producers and marketing power.
440
Why is it difficult for outsiders to discover small Chilean wineries?
The industry is top-heavy and insular, making it hard to penetrate the influence of major producers.
441
What helped Chile remain competitive in the late 19th-century wine market?
Chile remained phylloxera-free, boosting exports to Europe while the pest ravaged vineyards there.
442
What factors stalled Chilean wine growth in the 20th century?
World wars, economic depression, socio-political instability, and Chile's temperance movement.
443
What was the impact of the 1938 anti-alcohol law in Chile?
It imposed production quotas and planting limits, leading to high prices and low quality.
444
When did the 1938 anti-alcohol law lose influence?
After the 1973 military coup and the rise of Augusto Pinochet.
445
How did Pinochet's economic policies affect Chilean wine?
His pro-capitalist reforms liberalized the market and created conditions for wine export growth.
446
Who introduced modern winemaking technologies to Chile in 1979?
Miguel Torres, a Spanish winemaker, in Curicó.
447
What innovations did Miguel Torres bring to Chile?
Stainless steel tanks, pneumatic presses, new barriques, and VSP trellising.
448
How did Chilean wine change in the 1980s and 1990s?
Whites became clean and fruit-driven; reds matured in small oak barrels rather than foudres.
449
What was the state of Chilean wine exports by the end of the 1980s?
Exports surged, especially to Europe and the UK, despite domestic overproduction earlier in the decade.
450
Which Bordeaux estates or figures invested in Chile?
DBR Lafite (Los Vascos, 1988), Bruno Prats and Paul Pontallier (Viña Aquitania, 1990), Baron Philippe de Rothschild (Almaviva, 1997).
451
Which major Chilean-French joint venture was established in 1995?
Seña, by Robert Mondavi and Eduardo Chadwick (Viña Errázuriz).
452
How did Chile’s wine industry grow between 1990 and 2000?
Production increased from 350,000 hl to 642,000 hl; exports rose from 7% to over 40% of total production.
