RealChile

Question 1

What was the change in Vineyard growth area in Chile from 1993 to 2003?

Answer 1

The amount of Vineyard growth area doubled

This indicates significant expansion in viticulture practices during that decade.

Question 2

What is the emphasis in Chilean viticulture?

Answer 2

Wines made in the vineyard, not winery

This reflects a focus on terroir and grape quality over winemaking techniques.

Question 3

What improvements have been made in Chilean viticulture?

Answer 3

Improved vine management, clonal selection, and irrigation

These factors contribute to higher quality wine production.

Question 4

What does Denominacion de Origen (DO) indicate in Chile?

Answer 4

A regulatory system for wine regions

Caution is needed as not all wineries follow the regulations.

Question 5

What percentage of the stated grape, region, and vintage must wines contain in Chile?

Answer 5

75%

This is a requirement for labeling wines accurately.

Question 6

What does the term ‘Reserva’ mean in Chilean wine labeling?

Answer 6

It means nothing but must display the place of origin

This term is often misinterpreted by consumers.

Question 7

What is VIGNO?

Answer 7

Vignadores de Carignan, the first authentic Chilean appellation

It is located in the Maule Valley and emphasizes old-vine Carignan.

Question 8

What is the origin of the name ‘VIGNO’?

Answer 8

Derived from ‘vino’ (Spanish for wine) and ‘G’ from Carignan

This highlights the central grape used in this appellation.

Question 9

What are the main red grapes grown in Chile?

Answer 9

• Cabernet Sauvignon (42%)
• Carmenere (9%)
• Merlot (10%)

These grapes dominate the red wine production in Chile.

Question 10

What are the main white grapes grown in Chile?

Answer 10

• Chardonnay (14%)
• Sauvignon Blanc (13%)

These varieties are significant in the Chilean white wine market.

Question 11

What grape varieties are produced in the Aconcagua Valley?

Answer 11

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Syrah
• Merlot

This region is known for its hot and dry climate.

Question 12

What is unique about the climate in the Casablanca/San Antonio region?

Answer 12

Similar to Carneros in California, with a cool marine influence

Morning fogs benefit grape growing, especially for white varieties.

Question 13

What is Maipo Valley often referred to as?

Answer 13

The Napa Valley of Chile

It is known for producing high-quality wines.

Question 14

What types of soils are found in Maipo Valley?

Answer 14

Sandy soils with gravel top soils

These soil types contribute to the unique characteristics of the wines.

Question 15

What are the sub-regions of the Rapel Valley?

Answer 15

Cachapoal and Colchagua

Each sub-region has distinct terroirs and grape varieties.

Question 16

What unique labels should one look for in Cachapoal?

Answer 16

Requinga and Rengo

These indicate the origin of wines from this region.

Question 17

What is a notable feature of the Curicó Valley?

Answer 17

It is the second-largest producing valley

The climate is slightly cooler and wetter compared to other valleys.

Question 18

What unique label is associated with Curicó Valley?

Answer 18

Lontué River

This label signifies wines from this particular area.

Question 19

What grape varieties are produced in the Maule Valley?

Answer 19

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Pais
• Merlot

Maule is the largest producing valley by volume.

Question 20

What is the climate like in the Maule Valley?

Answer 20

It is the wettest of all four subregions

This diversity in geography supports various grape varieties.