Valle de Curicó wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

The Valle de Curicó lies within the Valle Central wine region, in Chile's Maule Region. It comprises the province of Curicó together with the commune of Río Claro, part of Talca province, and is divided into two recognized zones: Valle del Teno, covering the communes of Teno, Romeral, Rauco, Hualañé and Vichuquén, and Valle del Lontué, covering Curicó, Molina, Sagrada Familia and Río Claro. Soils are of volcanic and alluvial origin, ranging from loamy to clay textures depending on the sector. The climate is temperate Mediterranean, with warm summer days and cool, humid nights, and rainfall concentrated mainly in winter. Vines have been grown here since the nineteenth century, and the range of grape varieties planted, both red and white, is among the broadest in the country, setting this valley apart from its neighbors within the Valle Central.

The wines of this appellation

The Valle de Curicó produces both red and white wines, reflecting the diversity of its soils and microclimates. Reds, made mainly from cabernet sauvignon, merlot, carménère, syrah and malbec, show deep color, firm tannins and aromas of dark fruit and spice, sometimes with toasted notes when aged in barrel. Whites, based on sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, viognier or riesling, stand out for their freshness, citrus and white fruit notes, and good acidity preserved by the valley's cool nights. The most structured reds can age for several years, while the whites are generally best enjoyed young, when their vivacity is at its peak. The reds pair well with grilled meats, slow-cooked dishes and aged cheeses, while the whites suit fish, shellfish and vegetable-based dishes.