A Taste of South America Mixed Case of 6 Wines

What's inside?

Miguel Torres Terra Andica Reserva Organic Gewurztraminer, Curico

A wonderful floral nose shouts that this is classic Gewurztraminer, and nods towards the great wines of Alsace. On the palate, however, this wine is a fresher example of the grape and eschews the rich oiliness of the French style in favour of a cleaner, more angular style, which is equally wonderful. A perfect partner to pan-Asian dishes.

Emiliana ‘Novas’ Organic Gran Reserva Viognier, Casablanca Valley, Chile

Emiliana is the largest organic winery on the planet, and they lead the way in sustainable, eco-friendly winemaking. That isn’t to say that there is anything missing from their wines, as this peach and apricot-laden wine amply shows. Classic Viognier with that viscous, fruit palate with a little dash of spice at the finish and terrific acidity.

Ventisquero ‘Grey Label’ Sauvignon Blanc, Atacama, Chile

The Atacama growing regions are the northernmost in Chile, and the cool temperatures and lack of rainfall make it perfect for Sauvignon Blanc. The sea mist that rolls through the vineyards in the morning provides just enough moisture, and the cooler temperatures preserve all of that herbaceous, crunchy acidity. This is an incredibly complex wine and shows that Chile is now producing some of the most interesting and exciting Sauvignon around.

Dona Paula ‘Unique’ Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

Argentinian Malbec may not be very unique, but how about a wine that is dark, brooding and powerful but happens to be only 12.5% ABV? Well, that is unique. I was amazed when I tasted this wine and then found out that it isn’t the sort of red that will make your legs go wobbly quickly. Martin Kaiser is a genius winemaker and makes the most of the vineyards he sources his fruit from, which are planted at altitudes of up to 4300ft. This high-altitude, cool-climate wine making is a signature of modern Argentinian wine.

Ventisquero ‘Grey Label’ Pinot Noir, Leyda Valley, Chile

Pinot Noir is the holy grail for winemakers as this thin-skinned varietal is a cruel mistress. Get it wrong and it’s just uninteresting, slightly tart red wine, get it right though and it is the most interesting and beautiful thing in the world of wine. Chile has shown that it can master this style for some time, and wine makers like Felipe Toso at Ventisquero are now pushing that envelope a little further. Filled with beautifully balanced wild hedgerow fruit married to a backbone of invigorating acidity. It’s an incredibly complex wine which is best served just a little cooler and is always better with food, think something fatty such as lamb, duck or cheese.

Marques de Casa Concha Carmenere, Puemo, Cachapoal Valley, Chile

Carmenere is a grape which Chile has really made its own. Originally from Bordeaux and hidden amongst Merlot for many years in Chile, it manages to produce bold wines with a lovely ripe plum and mocha duskiness to them. This particular wine is one of the best examples I’ve tasted and is so ridiculously consistent. The true taste of Chile.

These 6 Stunning South American Wines for only £88 – you save £16