Most Chilean vineyards lie between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, which moderates the climate much like it does in California. Wine styles typically fall somewhere between California and France, neither extremely full-bodied nor extremely elegant.With food and wine, Chile is a very global place. There is a variety of international influences, with contributions from California, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. This may seem unlikely, as Chile is one of the world’s most isolated wine countries, with the world’s largest ocean on one side, the highest mountains outside the Himalayas on the other, Antarctic glaciers in the south and the world’s driest desert (the Atacama) at its north. For this reason, the vine malady called phylloxera has never been as big a problem in Chile as it has in most other parts of the wine world. Most vines there are descendants of the original French cuttings and are ungrafted, meaning they are planted directly into the ground. Most of the world’s vines are grafted onto American rootstock that are resistant to phylloxera. Because of this the Chileans sometimes say that their wines have a truer taste of the originals. The most popular grape varieties there are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. One of their best is Sauvignon Blanc, in a crisp “Pacific Rim” style somewhat reminiscent of a toned-down New Zealand version. There is also renewed interest in a red grape called Carmenere. Like Cabernet and Merlot, Carmenere is a red wine variety from the Bordeaux region of France. No longer grown much in France, the Chileans are very big on it. Most of Chile’s wine regions are river valleys that begin in the Andes and end at the ocean, from Santiago south about 125 miles. On a map they resemble a ladder. In roughly a north to south order they include: Aconcagua (north of Santiago, on the slopes of Mount Aconcagua), Casablanca (on the plains spreading west from Santiago toward the ocean), Maipo and Pirque, Rapel, Colchagua, Curico, Lontue, Maule, Bio Bio. It tends to be cooler as you move south. Chile makes lots of wine , much of it exported around the world. Conde de Velazquez Cabernet Sauvignon, named for a notorious conquistador, is made in the northern Aconcaqua region.
SAN ESTEBAN WINERY Founded in 1974, Viña San Esteban is oriented to producing fine wines and fresh table grapes, principally for export. A family business with important ties to the community, Viña San Esteban has the long term vision and the necessary support to commit to quality production, as well as market and brand building worldwide. The winery and offices are adjacent to the La Florida and Paidahuen vineyards and estates, both in the town of San asteban, Region V, Chile. The vineyards include overhead and vertically-trained vines located both on hillsides and along the banks of the Aconcagua River. Privileged soil conditions and Aconcagua Valley's micro-climate, together with quality technological practices in viticulture and winemaking allow us to produce quality grapes and wines, recognized both domestically and internationally. In the international arena, Viña San Esteban wines are sold in more than 16 countries and are repeat recipients of prestigious industry awards and recognitions on a global level.
Conde de Velazquez The wines was fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tank and then aged for 8 months in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve its fruity varietals aromas. Chardonnay A medium texture and blend of citric and tropical fruit aromas distinguish this Chardonnay grown at the foothills of the Andes. Merlot Red fruity and spice aromas with a characteristic soft texture make this wine a perfect match for white meats, salmon or pasta. Cabernet Sauvignon An intense wine with fruity nose and good structure. Serve with meats and cheese.
