Chile is known for its powerful, fruit-extracted, over-oaked and expensive wines.
The is known for its potent, extracted fruit, with excess wood and expensive; such as Dom Melchior, Alma Viva, Seña, Chadwick, Montes Alpha M, among others that are definitely not worth their price and do not reflect world-class qualities, being more the result of marketing than winemaking. However, there is a group of producers who are striving, with commendable success, to deliver to the market more creative wines, with a pleasant taste, produced using sustainable techniques and natural practices,
harmonious to their terroirs and with possible prices.
Within this new universe that is emerging, wineries that produce natural and biodynamic wines stand out, such as Cacique Maravilla, Matetic, Casa Marín, Vinícola Villalobos and the traditional Miguel Torres, which have brought authenticity and unique expression to the Chilean terroir. Located in the Bío-Bío Valley, Wonder Chieftain is an example of a winery that values centuries-old traditions. Led by Manuel Moraga, the winery uses natural methods, without the addition of chemicals or manipulation in the winemaking process.
Its emblematic Pipeño, a wine made with the País grape, symbolizes the simplicity and purity of ancient Chile. Another highlight is Vino Naranja Moscatel, produced with long macerations, which captures the essence of the region’s historic vineyards. In the Rosario Valley, part of the San Antonio Valley, the Matetic combines biodynamic techniques with innovation. The winery promotes balance between agriculture and ecosystem, creating wines that express its coastal terroir. Its highlights include the Corralillo Sauvignon Blanc, fresh and mineral, and the EQ Syrah, recognized for
its depth and elegance.
Matetic reflects a commitment to sustainable practices and a philosophy that harmonizes quality and respect for nature. Founded by María Luz Marín in the San Antonio Valley, Marin House is the pioneer winery in coastal regions of Chile. The proximity to the sea gives its wines a vibrant acidity and distinct character. Its labels, such as Cipreses Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc and Lo Abarca Hills Pinot Noir, capture the winery’s maritime freshness and innovative spirit.
Casa Marín is a shining example of how exploring microclimates can result in world-class wines. THE Villalobos is a unique winery located in the Colchagua Valley, known for its unique, wild vineyard-focused approach. The vines, many of which are centuries old, grow naturally, surrounded by vegetation
native, without chemical intervention or intensive management.
Villalobos wines stand out for their authenticity and respect for the terroir. Labels such as Carignan Silvestre and Syrah Viñedo Silvestre reflect the essence of the local ecosystem, with rustic character, unparalleled complexity and freshness. The winery’s philosophy is to produce wines that tell a story of connection to the land, sustainability and natural expression of Chile.
Finally, and with special merit, the Michael Torres has innovated in a surprising way, with its wines. The arrival of Dom Miguel Torres in Chile in 1979 marked a new chapter for winemaking in the country. Part of a renowned family of Spanish producers, Miguel Torres chose the Curicó Valley to implement his vision of combining European tradition with the potential of Chilean vineyards. The winery introduced modern techniques, such as French oak barrels and stainless steel tanks, revolutionizing the quality of local wines.
Among its highlights are the Cordillera Carignan, a tribute to the old Carignan vines in the Maule Valley, and the Escaleras de Empedrado, a Pinot Noir of unique horror, grown on slate terraces. Furthermore, Miguel Torres has embraced sustainable practices, such as the Santa Digna Estelado line, a sparkling wine made from País grapes that celebrates tradition and innovation, and the brilliant “Los Inquietos” series, which brings innovations never seen in Chile.
The Cacique Maravilla, Matetic, Villlaobos and Casa Marín wineries, together with Miguel Torres, show how Chile is capable of offering wines that go beyond the conventional and expensive. Its natural, biodynamic and sustainable labels are a celebration of tradition, terroir and forward thinking, conquering the palates of wine lovers around the world. Cheers!
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
