Known as a country with climatic conditions perfect for growing grapes, Chile is able to grow a whole host of varieties across its many varied regions. From the Maipo Valley, known for its cool maritime climate and well balanced reds. And the Maule Valley, one of Chile’s oldest and largest regions, ideal for producing the classic Bordeaux varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. To the southern Bio Bio region, with its high levels of rainfall, strong winds and cool nights, producing some of the new world’s finest Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Chile is a country of contrasts.
Valdivieso is one of the longest established names in Chilean winemaking, with the first release of Valdivieso wines being in 1887. These were sparkling wines, made by the founder of the business, Alberto Valdivieso. Alberto was influenced by the time he spent in Paris as a youth, when he favoured champagne from Veuve-Clicquot. For decades sparkling wine remained the mainstay of the business, but during the 20th century Alberto also began to produce still wines. In 1949 the business was bought up by the Mitjans group, which produces a vast array of wines and spirits for consumption mainly on the domestic market. Valdivieso Wines have become well-known and greatly awarded all over the world in different international competitions. These wines have had outstanding presentations both in France and England among other countries. Therefore, it is not by chance that Viña Valdivieso has become in the last years one of the top and most consistent Chilean wineries.
Brett Jackson, a native of New Zealand, began his winemaking career in 1990 at Stonyridge Vineyard in Waiheke, New Zealand. His early success gave him the opportunity to continue his skills at Flora Springs Winery in Napa Valley, California. In 1993, Brett wanted to broaden his international experience and provided his services at Thelema Mountian Vineyards in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Later, he obtained valuable French winemaking ideas by working with Jacques and Francois Lurton in Narbonne, France.
The Chilean Wine Maker’s night at MLH will take place on 3rd September at the Maitland State Room. A fine selection of Chilean wines such as Valdivieso Single Vineyard Merlot, Valdivieso Sauvignon, Valdivieso Reserva Chardonnay, Valdivieso Caballo Loco will be served during the event. These choice of wines will be complemented with a five course dinner priced at Rs 5500/-. Guests will have the opportunity to sample the menu items appropriately paired with selected wines, showcasing the diverse range and compatibility of Chilean wine. Seared Tuna “Ceviche”, Avocado & Crab Dome, Ossetra Caviar, Ajo-Saffron Aioli, Mussel-White Wine Broth with Pimento & Seabass, Assorted Meats and Sausages with Tomatican, Potato Terrine & Sauce Chancho en Piedra are some of the items on the menu.
Brett Jackson, who has been seduced, captivated ad convinced over the immense potential Chile has to offer, stated ; “As a Winemaker I really cannot see myself being anywhere else. Even after 17 years it still continually manages to amaze me, with the quality and quantity of authentic Valdivieso’s winemaker stopping by at MLH on 3rd of September for the Winemakers’ Night, your evening could be exalted further on his thoughts on how the vintage went down in Chile.
Premium wines from Valdivieso distributed by Favourite International will be the highlight at Chilean Winemakers’ Night….
