Chile ranks as the fifth largest wine producer and the fourth largest exporter globally. It has overtaken Australia in the Chinese market due to favorable trade agreements. In 2023, Chile shipped more wine to China than to the UK or US, with notable recognition for its red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. Master of Wine Peter Richards promotes Chilean wines, showcasing their quality in London tastings.
Chile has emerged as a significant player in the global wine market, ranking as the fifth largest wine producer globally while maintaining its position as the fourth largest exporter. The country has successfully penetrated the Chinese wine market, having overtaken Australia after securing a free-trade agreement that eliminated tariffs on wines entering China since 2015. As a result, Chile has become the second largest supplier of wine to China, directly benefiting from the punitive tariffs imposed on Australian wines between 2021 and 2024.
In 2023, Chile experienced a smaller harvest, yet it managed to export more wine to China than to its traditional markets in the UK and the US. This shift marks a notable change in export dynamics, although the UK remains a vital import market for Chilean wines. American consumers have typically regarded Chilean wines as affordable options, a perception that may be shifting following the recognition of Don Melchor 2021 as Wine Spectator’s wine of the year.
Peter Richards, a renowned Master of Wine, has been a long-standing advocate for Chilean wines, co-hosting the podcast Wine Blast with fellow Master of Wine Susie Barrie. At a recent tasting event in London, they featured 53 selected wines from Chile, with a notable emphasis on reds. Out of the showcased wines, 35 were red varieties, demonstrating their prevalence and popularity in the market, although no sparkling wines were included.
The tasting highlighted the distinctiveness of Chilean red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and its blends. One standout was El Principal’s 2022 Memorias blend, which garnered a good value rating. The Pirque region, situated near Santiago, is known for its ideal grape-growing conditions, thanks to its geography and climate, making it perfect for Cabernet cultivation.
Chile has established itself as a formidable wine producer and exporter, especially in the competitive Chinese market where it has gained a significant foothold over Australia. Even with challenges like a smaller harvest in 2023, Chilean wines, particularly red varieties, continue to attract interest globally. The recognition of wines like Don Melchor indicates a positive shift in perceptions, further solidifying Chile’s reputation as a producer of fine wines.
Original Source: news.wine.co.za
