Because I don’t drink, I am often asked how I can write about wineries, breweries and distilleries. It’s easy. There is a lot more to these establishments than the tasting rooms. I find the process and the history very interesting.
Chile’s winemaking dates to the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors brought vines from Spain to plant in their new land.
Throughout its history of winemaking, Chile has been fortunate. Because of its location between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it doesn’t have the problem of vine pests and diseases because of its isolation.
The warm, dry summers and regular water supply from melted snow off the Andes mountains make the location perfect.
Until about 30 years ago, there were only about 10 wine-producing families in the country. Now, this number is much higher as the industry has seen a massive expansion. Chile is now the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world and the seventh-largest producer.
I visited several wineries and learned about the wine varieties and grapes. I walked through the vineyards where plants were just waking up from their winter sleep.
For anyone who has visited Chile’s wine country, they only have to purchase a bottle of Chilean wine to remember their experience here in the shadow of the mountains. And for someone like me, I only have to look back at my photos to remember my day in wine country.
