I recently arrived in Chile, and on a Sunday afternoon, I joined some local wine enthusiasts and a few visitors for a casual get-together at Alan Grudsky’s home. Among the guests were winegrower Gonzalo Guzman, Peruvian sommelier Joseph Acosta, Maria José Alvarez, and French import specialist Alex Couloumy.
We opened several intriguing bottles, including Gonzalo’s Mencia, which he introduced to Chile, Alan’s house wine from Itata, and a remarkable Garnacha sourced from Atacama. It was a fantastic way to enjoy the afternoon with good company.
Highlights of the Wines Tasted
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Gonzalo Guzman El Afán 2024, Maipo-Andes:
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- This Mencia is crafted with 30% stems added back post-destemming. It has a floral character with notes of black cherries alongside a hint of reduction and savory spices.
- Rating: 95/100
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Laberinto Trumao Sauvignon Blanc 2020, Maule-Colbún:
- Alcohol: 13%
- A serious Sauvignon with a stony, chalky texture paired with citrus fruit and a graininess that speaks to its expressive style.
- Rating: 93/100
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Pedro Parra Vinista País 2023, Itata:
- This wine showed a distinctive wildness with smoky spices, sleek cherry, and redcurrant fruit along with a hint of ginger.
- Rating: 93/100
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Marques de Casa Concha Chardonnay 2008, Limari:
- This well-aged wine from limestone soils presents a nose of spice, honey, and lanolin, leading to a crystalline palate with great acidity.
- Rating: 92/100
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Grudsky Tinto de Secano 2022, Itata:
- A blend of Cinsault and Pais, this dry-farmed wine is marked by its freshness, structure, and expressive spice.
- Rating: 93/100
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De Cal by J P Martin Garnacha 2023, Huasca:
- Sourced from the cool climate of the Atacama desert, this Grenache combines redcurrant and cherry fruit with a fine, juicy texture and mineral detail.
- Rating: 95/100
This informal gathering not only allowed for a lively exchange of ideas and experiences but also highlighted the immense potential of Chile’s diverse wines.