Written by Gurvinder Bhatia | 26 August 2010

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On the Cusp of Greatness?
Elqui to Casablanca
San Antonio to Bio Bio
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Elqui
Maintains a gentle, steady climate with little wind or precipitation. It also possesses some of the clearest skies, ideal for stargazing. In fact, numerous international observatories have been constructed in the area. Grapes also thrive in the climate of this semi-arid valley and new vineyards cover the terrain from coast to high into the Andes. Many varietals are planted, but Syrah from this cool climate is making the biggest impact. Look for wines from Falernia and Geo.

Limari
Vineyards cover the entire mountain to sea span. The Pacific Ocean’s cooling fog covers the valley each morning and burns off as the sun rises over the Andes in the afternoon. The mineral-rich soils receive less than four inches of rainfall each year. The combination creates fresh wines with a distinct mineral edge. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah do well in the cooler coastal areas, while Viognier and Carmenère benefit from the warmer parts of the valley. Tabali, Tamaya, and Maycas del Limari are the top producers.

Casablanca
First planted to vine in the mid-1980s as Chile’s first cool-climate coastal region. Strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean’s cold Humboldt Current, whose effects are felt through the fog, cloudiness and cool breezes that combine to produce a relatively delayed harvest. Crisp, fresh Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir result. Producers include Quintay, Cono Sur, William Cole and many others.