Chilean White Wines

About Chilean White Wines

Although Chile is considered a New World country, it wouldn't be quite right to say that the Chileans are new kids on the block. In fact, some of the vines which are to be found in the country's wine-growing areas date back to around the 1500s. The development of their wine-production was also given a boost when the 1800s saw many grape varieties imported from Europe. However, it has been in the last 30 years or so that Chilean wine-makers have become committed in earnest to producing terroir-driven fine wine. Today, Chile is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to many different kinds of wine. We are pleased to be able to offer such a strong collection of Chilean white wines.

Protected wine-growing conditions

With Patagonia to its South, the Atacama desert to its North, the Pacific to its West and the snowy Andes to its East, Chile is in many ways protected from some of the worse threats to vineyards. In fact, partly down to Chile's natural protection on all sides, it is the only major wine-growing country which has not been touched by phylloxera, the infestation which all but destroyed vineyards across the world around 200 years ago.

World-class whites

Fast-forward to the 1990s, and pioneering wine-makers in Chile decided to tap into the conditions in certain areas which we might recognise as being similar to those of California. This has not only led to a number of world-beating reds, but also an impressive array of white wines. Their Chardonnays are always worth trying out; get ready to expect some gorgeous mineral-filled lemon and peach notes rounded off with a long and creamy, spiced finish. It is as though they take the best of what you might expect from a Californian equivalent, but add an electrifying burst of acidity thanks to the influence of the cool Pacific Ocean.

Zesty, fruity and terroir-driven

The Sauvignon Blanc also always hits the spot. Giving you that ultimate combination of zestiness and stoniness, their Sauvignon Blancs are among the best. But this is really just scratching the surface, as you will find a whole plethora of options to explore, from Viognier to Riesling to Moscatel and beyond.