A hot topic in wine media is the expanding wine world.
In the past, many wine lovers were limited to drinking wines produced in their home regions, unless they traveled the world or were wealthy enough to have wine imported.
But ever so slowly, wines from other markets crept onto our wine-store shelves. Today, it’s more like a fast-paced jog.
Chilean wines are a good example. Ten years ago few had tasted a Chilean wine; today they are available at almost every retail shop in the U.S.
Chile’s successful journey started with a word-of-mouth buzz about its exceptional wines, and soon greats in the wine world – the Rothschilds and Lafittes of France, Spain’s Miguel Torres and California’s Robert Mondavi – took notice. They bought land, planted vines and soon their passion and expertise blossomed on Chilean soil.
In the early 1980s, about 10 Chilean wineries exported their products. Today, more than 100 wineries have joined in making the country’s wines a buzz-worthy, quality competitor in the global marketplace.
THE VALUES
- 2008 Conde de Velazquez Sauvignon Blanc, Chile (about $8 retail)
- 2007 Yali Winemaker Selection, Chile (about $9 retail)
- 2007 Concho y Toro Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile (about $12 retail)
- 2007 Terra Andina Carmenere, Chile (about $11 retail)
- 2006 La Playa Block Selection Merlot, Chile (about $11 retail)
THE SPLURGES
- 2006 Casa Lapostolle Merlot, Chile (about $14 retail)
- 2006 Baron Philippe de Rothschild Los Vascos Reserve, Chile (about $20 retail)
- 2006 Veramonte Primus Red Wine, Chile (about $23 retail)
- 2006 Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo, Chile (about $16 retail)