Simplified Guide to Chilean Wine Regions: Costa, Entre Cordilleras, and Andes

Chile's wine regions can be divided into three primary zones based on their location relative to the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. These zones are crucial for understanding the terroir and climate influences on Chilean wines.

1. Costa (Coastal)

• Location: Close to the Pacific Ocean.

• Climate: Cool and breezy, with significant marine influence, leading to moderate temperatures and higher humidity.

• Characteristics: Coastal regions benefit from cooling sea breezes and fog, which help retain acidity in grapes.

• Key Wine Styles: Crisp, aromatic whites (like Sauvignon Blanc) and elegant, cool-climate reds (like Pinot Noir and Syrah).

• Notable Sub-Regions:

  • Casablanca Valley: Famous for Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

  • San Antonio Valley: Known for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

2. Entre Cordilleras (Between the Mountains)

• Location: Between the Andes Mountains and the Coastal Range.

• Climate: Warmer than the coastal areas but moderated by breezes from both mountain ranges, leading to diverse microclimates.

• Characteristics: This zone has a range of temperatures and soil types, making it versatile for growing various grape varieties.

• Key Wine Styles: Balanced red wines (like Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot) and some fuller-bodied whites.

• Notable Sub-Regions:

  • Maipo Valley: Known for high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.

  • Colchagua Valley: Renowned for Carmenere and Syrah.

3. Andes

• Location: Close to the Andes Mountains.

• Climate: Cool with significant temperature variation between day and night, high altitude.

• Characteristics: High elevation and cooler temperatures contribute to wines with intense flavors, higher acidity, and tannin structure.

• Key Wine Styles: Structured reds (like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec) and some aromatic whites (like Sauvignon Blanc).

• Notable Sub-Regions:

  • Aconcagua Valley: Known for robust reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

  • Cachapoal Valley: Produces structured reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere.

for Remembering

• Costa: Think "Coastal" — cool climate, close to the ocean, crisp and aromatic wines.

• Entre Cordilleras: "Between the mountains" — warmer, diverse, balanced reds.

• Andes: High altitude, cool nights, intense and structured wines.