As an internationally renowned Master of Wine, Alistair Cooper has spent years immersed in the world of wine, with a particular passion for the robust, terroir-driven offerings hailing from Chile. Through his extensive travels, tastings, and research, Cooper has developed an unparalleled expertise in evaluating the nuances and potential of Chilean viticulture.
In the latest edition of his coveted Latin American Wine Guide, Cooper spotlights the exceptional quality and diversity of Chile’s wine landscape, bestowing high praise and impressive scores on a range of celebrated producers. From the bold, structured reds of the Maipo Valley to the bright, elegant whites of the Casablanca region, Cooper’s insights offer a masterful overview of the country’s viticultural prowess.
Influential English Sommelier
Alistair Cooper’s prowess as a wine expert extends far beyond the printed page. As a respected figure in the global wine community, he has amassed an impressive resume, including stints working as a sommelier in London’s finest establishments. His palate is renowned for its discerning nature, allowing him to isolate the most subtle and compelling characteristics of any given wine.
“I’ve had the privilege of tasting thousands of wines from around the world,” Cooper reflects, “but Chilean offerings have always held a special place in my heart. The country’s diverse terroirs, innovative winemaking techniques, and unwavering commitment to quality are truly remarkable.”
Cooper’s insights into the Chilean wine landscape are shaped by his deep understanding of the country’s viticultural heritage and evolution. “Chile has managed to masterfully balance tradition and modernity,” he explains. “The nation’s acclaimed vintners have a profound respect for time-honored grape-growing methods, while also embracing novel approaches to elevate their wines to new heights.”
Popular Chilean Wine Regions
Among the regions that have captivated Cooper’s attention is the renowned Maipo Valley. “The Cabernet Sauvignons and Carménère blends from Maipo are simply breathtaking,” he muses. “The combination of warm days, cool nights, and well-draining soil acidity creates the perfect conditions for these grapes to develop intense, concentrated flavors.”
The Colchagua Valley, located just south of Maipo, has also earned Cooper’s enthusiastic admiration. “The Carménère varietal truly shines in Colchagua,” he observes. “The wines exhibit a beautiful balance of ripe, dark fruit and subtle spice notes, with a silky, elegant texture that makes them incredibly food-friendly.”
Further north, the Casablanca Valley has captivated Cooper’s palate with its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay offerings. “The cool, coastal climate of Casablanca lends itself beautifully to these white grape varieties,” he explains. “The resulting wines are bursting with vivacious acidity, crisp minerality, and captivating aromatic complexity.”
Renowned Chilean Wine Varietals
While Chile’s diverse terroirs have earned widespread acclaim, Cooper also highlights the country’s mastery of certain grape varietals. “Cabernet Sauvignon is undoubtedly one of Chile’s crown jewels,” he asserts. “The nation’s winemakers have a remarkable talent for coaxing out the grape’s inherent power and finesse, crafting wines that are both structurally robust and elegantly refined.”
Carménère, a grape variety once thought lost to history but now firmly entrenched in Chile’s viticultural identity, has also captured Cooper’s attention. “The Carménère wines from Chile are truly world-class,” he affirms. “They exhibit a captivating blend of ripe, dark fruit, subtle spice, and a touch of herbaceous complexity that sets them apart from their counterparts elsewhere.”
The country’s white wine offerings have also left a lasting impression on Cooper, particularly the Sauvignon Blanc. “Chilean Sauvignon Blanc is a revelation,” he declares. “The wines showcase a harmonious interplay of vibrant citrus, tropical fruit, and a refreshing mineral backbone that makes them incredibly versatile at the table.”
Alistair’s Top Chilean Wine Picks
In his latest Latin American Wine Guide, Cooper has bestowed exceptional scores and accolades on a number of standout Chilean wines. Among the red wine selections, his top picks include the Carmín de Peumo 2021, which received a remarkable 96 points and was named the “Best Red Wine” in the guide. This acclaimed Carménère, hailing from the Cachapoal Valley, was also recognized as the “Best Carménère” and “Best of Cachapoal.”
Another red wine that earned Cooper’s highest praise is the Amelia Pinot Noir 2022, which received 94 points and was lauded for its elegant structure and captivating fruit profile. “The Amelia Pinot Noir is a true testament to Chile’s ability to produce world-class, terroir-driven red wines,” he affirms.
On the white wine front, Cooper was utterly enchanted by the Amelia Chardonnay 2022, which not only received 95 points but was also named the “Best White Wine” in the guide, sharing the top spot with two other exceptional offerings. This Chardonnay from the Limarí Valley also earned the titles of “Best Chardonnay” and “Best of Limarí.”
In the rosé category, Cooper singled out the Marques de Casa Concha Heritage Rosé 2021, scoring it an impressive 93 points and praising its vibrant acidity, delicate fruit expression, and alluring minerality.
“The diversity and quality of Chilean wines never cease to amaze me,” Cooper muses. “Whether you’re a lover of bold, structured reds, crisp, aromatic whites, or elegant rosés, you’ll find an abundance of exceptional options to explore and enjoy.”
To experience the best of Chile’s wine country for yourself, be sure to visit the Wine Garden Inn, where our knowledgeable staff can guide you through a curated selection of the nation’s finest offerings. From food & wine pairings to insights into our winemaking journey, we’re dedicated to sharing the magic of Chilean viticulture with every guest.