As the New World charges ever onward into the world of winemaking, Chile and Argentina increasingly position themselves as significant powerhouses with much to offer. In Chile, expertise and skill are at an all-time high, with the newly developed regions and varieties and a new generation of winemakers making a difference. Thanks to the enterprise of outfits like Montes and Errázuriz, the message of diversity and quality has spread around the world, with Chile now recognised as a mecca for fine wine.
Just over the Andes is Argentina and the story is similar, although not quite the same. Financially, Argentina is less prosperous, with local producers struggling, the government not particularly pro a strong wine industry and the emerging gen-eration turning to craft beer. Malbec is still king here, the big talking point being where it’s grown and how it’s made.
