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Chilean Wine also victim of multiple pricing

At the bi-centenary tasting of wines (Chile celebrated 200 years of independence in September) the red wines showed large in the newly-promoted grape variety Carmenere.

The big Chilean switch has happened, just as we predicted last Spring, writes John Brophy. At the bi-centenary tasting of wines (Chile celebrated 200 years of independence in September) the red wines showed large in the newly-promoted grape variety Carmenere. It makes a softer, more rounded red that Cab Sauvignon, about half-way to Merlot. The Chileans are proud to have identified it, using DNA equipment.
A parallel story in the whites can be found where Sauvignon Blanc has come to rival Chardonnay. So it will compete with New Zealand and Australia.
But the product definition is changing under pressure from multiples: wines that would have fetched €15 a couple of years back are in trouble and not just because customers haven’t the money, but because they have been spoiled by discounting and direct imports.
Not good news for the 23 wholesalers listed in the catalogue, but there was good value from niche suppliers with a Merlot ‘09 Indomita Polero for €8.95 and a Cabernet/Carmenere blend ‘08 Odfjell Puna Snipe for €9. For one cent less, there was a Santa Alicia Reserve Carmenere. Good value for money.
Santa Rita has introduced the label ‘Heroes’, to be restricted to the independent off-trade, featuring a Malbec and an unoaked Chardonnay. There were also a couple of good Pinot Noirs priced up at €15. A big ask nowadays?


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