Cristina Mariani-May is family proprietor and co-CEO of Banfi Vintners, America’s leading wine importer, and the award winning Castello Banfi Vineyard Estate in Montalcino, Tuscany.
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When the Earth Moved in Chile
Cristina Mariani-May
co-CEO Banfi Vintners
America's Leading Wine Importer
As I write this, we’re comforted by the fact that our colleagues in the Chilean wine industry and their families are safe and sound, but we’re still waiting for more news on the full impact of the devastating earthquake on Chile’s vineyards and wineries. This proud and independent country is stoically reticent about offers of aid pouring in from around the world, and seems to have matters in hand. And while the Tomato who became Chile’s first woman -- and most popular -- president is being closely scrutinized for her handling of this great crisis, I suspect that Michelle Bachelet’s calm, composure and frankness during this public struggle will develop as a model for politicians around the world. Chile has come a long way in the past three decades, and once it clears the rubble and dusts itself off, it will undoubtedly rocket forward at an even faster pace and show the world its ‘stuff.’
For now, one way we can support Chile is to support its wines and celebrate its remarkable rise to the summit of the wine world.
The history of Chilean wine is uncannily reflective of the country itself – socially, politically, and economically. Like many Chilean families, winemaking in Chile has European roots that date back to the 19th century. Like its politics, Chilean winemaking went through a stage that few wish to recall, when it seemed capable only of making simple, inexpensive but straightforward wines, but then it rose up to realize its true potential and join the ranks of the world’s top wine producing nations with a roster of world class terroirs. And like its economy, the Chilean wine industry went from a semi-socialized, agricultural-based curiosity to an international powerhouse with a notable presence on international stock exchanges. And, like its politics, Chilean wineries have gone from old world, all-boy clubs to presenting some of the most dynamic women winemakers, marketers and proprietors in the industry.
Isabel Guilisasti of Concha y Toro is such a Tomato. She is the dynamo who took her family’s noble wines and propelled them into worldwide brands through astute quality control, clear and creative packaging, and revolutionary presentations around the globe.
For your support and enjoyment, I submit to you a selection of Isabel’s wines that prove how Chile offers extreme value in a wide range of price segments.
Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot – Cabernet Sauvignon offers character, complexity and longevity, while Merlot adds softer tannins and elegance. This wine is fruity with aromas of chocolate, black plums and vanilla. A medium body gives way to black cherry flavors, soft tannins and a pleasing finish. Average national retail $6.
Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc – A medium-bodied wine, with flavors of peaches and hints of gooseberry. Gentle, round and mouthfilling, with crisp acidity. Average national retail is around $9.
Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay – Nicely balanced between fruit and sweet oak, this Chardonnay has character and style. Average national retail is around $19.
Maycas de Limari Riserva Especial Syrah – Maycas Reserva Especial Syrah is an intense ruby red with purple hues. Lush aromas of blueberry and blackberry mix harmoniously with hints of black pepper and toast. Full-bodied and smooth with dense black fruit flavors that highlight the overall elegance.. Average national retail $23.
Terrunyo Carmenere - Full-bodied red that hints of chocolate, pepper, cigar box and spice. Average national retail is around $28.
Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon - A bright ruby red. Expressive and complex chocolate, black cherry and ripe plum mingle with coffee and cassis aromas. Full bodied with red fruit flavors and ripe tannins that lead to a long and juicy finish. Average national retail is around $78.
