Chile — wine

Bio-Bio Valley

Chile's southernmost and coolest major wine valley, in the Region de Bio-Bio. Bio-Bio is the frontier of Chilean viticulture — where the continental climate gives way to maritime conditions from the Pacific and where temperatures are cool enough for Pinot Noir, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Muscat. The indigenous Pais grape (Mission) survives here in old-vine plantations dating to the 17th century Spanish missions. A new generation of natural wine producers is discovering the valley's potential.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Cool Pacific-influenced season; exceptional Pais and Muscat freshness; emerging quality from the valley
2022 Outstanding cool vintage for Bio-Bio; finest old-vine Pais and Riesling in recent memory
2021 Good vintage with reliable cool-climate character; natural wine producers particularly rewarded
2020 Long, cool season; exceptional freshness in all varietals planted in the valley
2019 Benchmark Bio-Bio vintage; increasing critical attention as the valley's quality becomes undeniable