About White Wines from Chile

About White Wines from Chile
Chile is today the 10th largest wine producing country in the world. Production is up slightly since 2010, but down a bit since 2012 and 2013. For years much of the wine was produced from the warm Central Valley, which corrected varietally correct, if unexciting whites and reds meant for retail stores. While these wines still represent a large share of Chile's wine, the industry has made a necessary shift over the past ten years to producing more terroir-driven wines. Dozens of artisan producers in cool climates not far from the Pacific Ocean have planted varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc in greater numbers. In fact, this last variety has produced outstanding results in the San Antonio and Leyda valleys and has been praised my many critics as among the world's finest. The most recognized Chilean wines, in terms of prestige, are the Cabernet Sauvignons of Maipo Valley, just south and east o the capital city of Santiago, are remarkable New World reds with ripe black currant fruit, good acidity and round, soft tannins. Many of these wines are capable of aging for 15-20 years, while a select few compare favorably with their premium counterparts from Napa Valley in California. However, as Chile does not have as esteemed a reputation as California, the Chilean Cabernets are much more reasonable priced. Given the ideal climatic conditions throughout Chile -ample sunshine along with moderating breezes form the ocean and Andes, it stand to reason that Chilean wines will only improve in the future

Top Picks for Chile

White Wines

La Playa 2021 Estate Series Viognier
90 points
$9
Best Buy
A very fruity and mouthwatering viognier that is sure to please.
Awards: 2022 Best Viognier
90 points $9 Best Buy
Black Box 2021  Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$19.98
A tropical and herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc with telltale Chilean typicity, exactly what you expect.
88 points $19.98
La Playa 2022 Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$13
Best Buy
Vibrant tropical fruit flavors balance with crisp acidity and playful herbaceous notes; pair this Sauvignon Blanc with appetizers.
88 points $13 Best Buy
Black Box 2020  Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$19.98
A pleasantly crisp and refreshing sauvignon for sipping and seafood.
88 points $19.98
Winemode 2021 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$4
Best Buy
A refreshing and tropical version of Sauvignon Blanc that will appeal to New Zealand drinkers while also expressing Chilean terroir.
88 points $4 Best Buy
Contempo 2021  Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$9
Best Buy
A savory veg heavy Sauvignon Blanc that would pair with goat cheese and a salad.
88 points $9 Best Buy
La Playa 2021 Reserva Sauvignon Blanc
88 points
$13
Best Buy
A tasty and easy drinking sauvignon blanc that is sure to please.
88 points $13 Best Buy
La Playa 2022 Estate Series Un-Oaked Chardonnay
87 points
$9
Best Buy
A slightly rustic and greener style of Chardonnay, but very refreshing and food friendly.
87 points $9 Best Buy
Goodness Grape 2020  Sauvignon Blanc
86 points
$10
Best Buy
A richer umami driven style of Sauvignon Blanc that will be delightful with a cheese platter.
86 points $10 Best Buy
La Playa 2021 Estate Series Un-Oaked Chardonnay
85 points
$9
A juicy, zippy everyday Chardonnay.