What are the best Chilean red wines?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

I recently had the pleasure of exploring some award-winning Chilean red wines, and I must say, they were truly exceptional. Here are eight of the best Chilean red wines that I highly recommend:

1. Casas del Bosque, Pequeñas Syrah 2020: This wine is a true gem. It boasts intense aromas of blackberries, blueberries, and spices. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish. It’s a wine that truly showcases the potential of Syrah in Chile.

2. Casas del Bosque, Gran Reserva Syrah 2020: Another standout from Casas del Bosque, this Syrah is a powerhouse. It offers bold flavors of black fruits, dark chocolate, and black pepper. The tannins are velvety smooth, and the wine has a great balance of acidity. It’s a wine that will age beautifully.

3. Concha y Toro, Trio Reserva Merlot-Carmenere-Malbec 2021: This blend from Concha y Toro is simply delicious. It combines the elegance of Merlot, the spiciness of Carmenere, and the richness of Malbec. The result is a wine with vibrant red fruit flavors, silky tannins, and a long, satisfying finish.

4. Viña Luis Felipe Edwards, Cinso 2021: If you’re looking for something unique, this Cinso from Viña Luis Felipe Edwards is worth a try. Cinso is a lesser-known grape variety in Chile, but it’s gaining recognition for its quality. This wine offers juicy red fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a refreshing acidity. It’s a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

5. Dos Almas, Apogeo 2016: Dos Almas is a boutique winery that produces some exceptional wines, and their Apogeo is no exception. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Carmenere is a true expression of Chile’s terroir. It showcases ripe black fruit flavors, hints of spice, and a velvety texture. It’s a wine that will impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.

6. Casas del Bosque, Gran Bosque Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: This Cabernet Sauvignon from Casas del Bosque is a true standout. It’s a wine that showcases the best of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. It offers intense aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with firm tannins and a long, elegant finish. It’s a wine that will age gracefully for years to come.

These are just a few examples of the incredible red wines that Chile has to offer. Each one has its own unique characteristics and flavor profile, but they all share a common thread of quality and excellence. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, these Chilean red wines are definitely worth seeking out. Cheers!