Chile’s national red wine is Carménère.
And now, in greater depth
The national red wine of Chile is Carménère, which has gained significant recognition both domestically and internationally. This grape variety has a fascinating history and unique characteristics that contribute to its popularity among wine enthusiasts.
Carménère was originally believed to be extinct following a devastating phylloxera outbreak in Europe during the 19th century. However, it was rediscovered in Chile in the late 20th century, and today the country has become the primary producer of this varietal. It has thrived in Chile’s Mediterranean-like climate, particularly in the Colchagua Valley, Maipo Valley, and Rapel Valley regions, where it flourishes on the warm, sunny slopes and benefits from cool Pacific Ocean breezes.
One interesting fact about Carménère is its distinct flavor profile. It often exhibits rich dark fruit flavors such as black cherry, blackberry, and plum, accompanied by notes of spice, tobacco, and chocolate. This lends the wine a smooth and velvety texture, making it immensely enjoyable to taste.
To further explore the significance of Carménère in Chilean wine culture, let’s consider a quote by renowned wine critic, Jancis Robinson: “Chile has produced some delicious Carménère reds: smooth, velvety wines with no bitter edges, plenty of length and no shortage of fruit and concentration.” This quote highlights the positive attributes of Carménère and underscores its appeal to wine connoisseurs.
To provide a comprehensive overview, here is a table summarizing key points about Chile’s national red wine, Carménère:
| Key Characteristics |
|---|
| Grape Variety |
| Climate Preference |
| Prominent Production Areas |
| Flavor Profile |
| Renowned Wine Critic Quote |
In conclusion, Carménère stands proudly as Chile’s national red wine, symbolizing the country’s viticultural prowess and unique contribution to the world of wine. Its rediscovery, distinct flavors, and recognition by experts make it a wine worth savoring and exploring.
See the answer to “What is Chile’s national red wine?” in this video
In celebration of National Red Wine Day, Stan reviews three Chilean red wines. He begins with a 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon from Las Vascos, noting its aromas of vanilla wafer, chocolate, and green bell pepper. On the palate, he describes it as full-bodied with cherry fruit and a spicy finish, praising its value at $10. Stan then introduces the Grand Reserve Carmenere 2012, highlighting its vegetal aromas with subtle chocolate and licorice undertones. He gives it a positive rating and predicts possible discounts around $16-17. Finally, Stan discusses Chagwa, comparing it to the amazing Carmenere wine. He also mentions a surprising 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon at $10. Overall, the reviewer recommends trying Chilean wines and encourages exploring new flavors without snobbery.
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CarménèreCarménère is considered Chile’s signature grape. In Chile, Carménère was mistaken as Merlot until 1994. Carménère grows primarily in the Colchagua Valley, Repel Valley, and Maipo province of Chile. DNA analysis shows that Carménère is a descendent of Cabernet Franc.
Carménère from Chile is a full-bodied, dry red wine. Carménère is considered the national wine grape of Chile.
Carménère is Chile’s signature red grape variety, producing savory and spicy reds with lush and textured bodies, balanced acidity, and velvety tannins.
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What is the national wine of Chile?
Carménère
Carménère from Chile is a full-bodied, dry red wine, considered the national wine grape of Chile.
What type of red wine is Chile known for?
Answer to this: Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère are two of the most popular and well-respected varieties grown in Central Valley, Chile.
What is Chile’s signature red grape?
Carmenère: The Signature Grape of Chile.
What is the most common wine in Chile?
Cabernet Sauvignon – Chile has been growing this grape for almost 200 years. Today it is the most cultivated grape in the whole country. The wines produced are fruity and concentrated, with a marked aroma of blackcurrant and eucalyptus, forests of which are common in Chile.
What is the most popular wine in Chile?
For most of Chile’s history, Pais was the most widely planted grape only recently getting passed by Cabernet Sauvignon. Other red wine varieties include Merlot, Carménère, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet franc, Pinot noir, Syrah, Sangiovese, Barbera, Malbec, and Carignan.
When did Chile start producing red wine?
Response will be: Chile has been growing vines since the 1500s. But the region’s red wine production really kicked off when the French introduced varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1800s. Even then, Chilean wines were mainly known for their affordability and not their taste.
How much does a Chilean wine cost?
The response is: These wines are savory, lean, and snappy, with flavors of juicy red fruit, black pepper, red pepper and herbs. For under $15 you can find excellent Chilean Cab Franc; a perfect red for outdoor drinking. One of the most planted and least talked about Chilean varieties is País (aka "Mission Grape" or Listan Prieto).
What is Chile’s most important red grape?
The reply will be: Cabernet Sauvignon might be Chile’s most important red variety, but Carménère is the country’s niche grape. Considered the “lost” sixth grape of Bordeaux, it reappeared when much of the country’s Merlot vines were genetically identified as Carménère in the 1990s.
What is the most popular wine in Chile?
For most of Chile’s history, Pais was the most widely planted grape only recently getting passed by Cabernet Sauvignon. Other red wine varieties include Merlot, Carménère, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet franc, Pinot noir, Syrah, Sangiovese, Barbera, Malbec, and Carignan.
What is Chile’s most important red grape?
Response to this: Cabernet Sauvignon might be Chile’s most important red variety, but Carménère is the country’s niche grape. Considered the “lost” sixth grape of Bordeaux, it reappeared when much of the country’s Merlot vines were genetically identified as Carménère in the 1990s.
When did Chile start producing red wine?
Chile has been growing vines since the 1500s. But the region’s red wine production really kicked off when the French introduced varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1800s. Even then, Chilean wines were mainly known for their affordability and not their taste.
Where is Chilean wine made?
Most of the Central Valley is wide and flat and this is where the bulk of Chilean wine is made. If you’re looking for age-worthy wine however, the fine wines of Chile tend to be found in the foothills (areas with higher elevations), especially the sub-regions of Puente Alto (in Alto Maipo or "High Maipo") and Alto Cachapoal ("High Cachapoal").