Best Chilean wines to try in 2024, taste tested
As the world of wine continues to expand and discover new territories, Chile has emerged as a premier wine-producing country, known for its diverse climates and terrain that yield a variety of high-quality wines. As we look ahead to 2024, here are some of the best Chilean wines that have been taste-tested and are worth seeking out.
1. Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon
This wine is a classic representation of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. With grapes sourced from the Colchagua Valley, this 2024 vintage boasts lush notes of blackberries, cassis, and a hint of vanilla from oak aging. It’s structured with firm tannins and has a finish that lingers pleasantly.
2. Vina Almaviva
A joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Concha y Toro, Almaviva represents the epitome of fine Chilean winemaking. A blend primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon with Carménère, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, this wine presents an elegant bouquet of dark fruit combined with subtle notes of spice and mocha.
3. Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon
From the Puente Alto vineyard at the foot of the Andes Mountains, Don Melchor is another testimony to the excellence of Chilean Cabernets. The 2024 vintage offers concentrated flavors of cherries and blackberries with complex layers of earthiness and mineral nuances that define its terroir-driven character.
4. Errazuriz Las Pizarras Chardonnay
This cool climate Chardonnay comes from the Aconcagua Coast. It showcases a beautiful balance between fruitiness and minerality, with a creamy texture that’s complemented by crisp acidity. Apple, pear, and citrus zest make up its core flavors, followed by delicate hints of almond and toast.
5. Clos des Fous Grillos Cantores Pinot Noir
An impressive Pinot Noir from the Bio-Bio Valley that stands out for its aromatic intensity and elegance. The wine offers a spectrum of red fruits like strawberries and raspberries along with nuanced earthy notes and spices like clove.
6. Viu Manent ‘ViBo’ Punta del Viento
This small-production blend primarily combines Malbec with Grenache and Mourvèdre sourced from Colchagua Valley vineyards. It’s an expressive wine with vibrant fruit flavors balanced by soft tannins and refreshing acidity.
7. Lapostolle ‘Clos Apalta’
Clos Apalta is a renowned Bordeaux-style blend consisting mostly of Carménère along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. This dense wine captivates with its dark berry fruit profile complemented by sweet spice elements from new French oak barrels where it matures.
8. Casa Marin Cartagena Sauvignon Blanc
Representing the San Antonio Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc displays extreme freshness, high acidity, and generous texture. Expect tangy citrus followed by tropical fruits along with distinct herbal undertones that make it a perfect companion for seafood dishes.
Sampling these top-notch Chilean wines in 2024 will not only provide insight into what Chile has to offer but will also elevate your wine tasting experience through diverse profiles ranging from bold reds to crisp whites – all displaying the country’s winemaking prowess.