Wine consumption in Chile: what are the new trends and the boom of late harvests

Wine has become a true cultural activity in our country, which has been consolidated by social habits specific to the identity of Chileans. Its consumption has evolved, going from an exclusive and expensive concept to being one of the protagonists in accompanying dishes in all regions, regardless of socioeconomic level.

In fact, according to the latest report published by EAE Business School Regarding the wine sector, it is evident that, as a result of the pandemic, several Latin American countries have increased the extraction, consumption, sale and distribution of this product in the world.

In 2021, according to the Report End of Wine Production 2021 of the Agricultural, Livestock Service (SAG)the industry presented an increase in production of 29.9% compared to 2020. Some of the main destination countries are China (338.8 million dollars), the United States (226.75), Great Britain (195 .25) and Japan (172.04).

In relation to consumption within the national territory, although the sale of wine decreased by 2 percent during 2019, according to the data provided by the report, its consumption is around 2.4 million hectoliters. But what is being drunk in Chile and what are the new consumption trends in relation to wine?

The variety of wines that our country offers is extensive and with an immensity of variants, flavors and strains, ranging from the traditional cabernet sauvignon, passing through the carmenèreto the trend that today sets the standard, such as late harvest wines.
Wine consumption in Chile: what are the new trends and the boom of late harvests

The late harvests

The late harvest It is a variety that is gaining popularity all over the world. Late harvest or late harvest wines are a special strain that is produced in months that are out of phase with the traditional harvest. They are fruity, fresh wines with sweet notes hard to match. The grapes are waited for months and specially seasoned to achieve sweetness during the elaboration process. They undergo a natural chemical process that makes them have a high sugar content, especially to enjoy at low temperatures.

Unlike wines whose grapes are extracted in the regular season and stored directly for later distribution, late-harvest grapes have the peculiarity that they are cut from the vines months later than usual. Generally, in the case of Chiliduring May and June when the cold falls on the plant.

Wine consumption in Chile: what are the new trends and the boom of late harvests

Carmenere, always trendy

The wine carmenère It is one of the most consumed in the country and is characterized by being a variety of red grapes that is well known worldwide, which was produced especially in the region of Bordeauxin France. Its geographical characteristics, the climate, the humidity and the dryness of the land where this wine comes from, make it highly coveted.

Although this grape is typical of this French region and is recognized for being one of the oldest European varieties in existence, it is hardly produced in France anymore, and on the contrary, its production is concentrated in Latin America.

In particular, today Chile has become the epicenter of the production of this type of wine that is widely recognized worldwide and whose flavor is unique.

Although the values of wines have tended to democratize, there are bottles of premium products that can greatly exceed budgets. This is why discounts at events cyber day style have become a trend in recent years, with offers that can put wines more top available to everyone.

Wine consumption in Chile: what are the new trends and the boom of late harvests