Chile’s Wine Day celebrates heritage grape recovery and new tastings

Chile’s National Wine Day is turning attention to a historic grape that is seeking a new place beyond its traditional association with chicha. The País variety is being developed into a broader range of wines, including sparkling, rosé, reserve and alcohol-free versions.

The celebration takes place each September 4 in memory of a letter Pedro de Valdivia wrote to King Charles V of Spain on September 4, 1545, requesting “vines and wine to evangelize.”

According to Chile’s Agricultural Research Institute, the centuries-old País grapevine is highly resistant to drought and heat in dry-farming areas. Work with small producers in Maule, Ñuble and O’Higgins has expanded production to include the traditional asoleado wine as well as newer styles.

The Institute for Agricultural Development supports more than 4,000 family-farming vintners by helping modernize wineries and open markets. That work has enabled artisanal wines made from heritage grapes to reach destinations including Sweden and China. They have also collected more than 230 medals in international competitions.

In Santiago, the anniversary is being marked in the La Bolsa neighborhood with specialist tastings, live food demonstrations and folk groups. The free event runs from noon to 7 p.m. and includes 20 wineries from the Maipo Valley and 10 local entrepreneurs.

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vines and wine to evangelize