"Chile is one of South America's most important wine-producing countries. Occupying a thin strip down the western coast of the continent, it is home to a wide range of terroirs, and an equally wide range of wine styles. The Chilean viticultural industry is often associated in export markets with consistent, good-value wines, but some world-class reds are also made, commanding high prices.
For red wines the initial export mainstays have been Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Like many New World countries Chile has adopted a signature grape variety; here it is Carmenère, once widely grown in Bordeaux... Pinot Noir from the cooler parts of Chile is beginning to make an impression, and Syrah is increasing in popularity in many regions offering a wide variety of styles...
White wine plantings are led by Chardonnay – also grown in many differing macroclimates – which can achieve very high quality levels with prices to match, and Sauvignon Blanc. Viognier, Riesling and Semillon are among those varieties grown on a smaller scale." - Wine Searcher
Map adapted from: Wines of Chile
