Wine With Wanda

Sustainable, Innovative, and Connected to Tradition: Get to Know the Wines of Miguel Torres Chile

Eduardo Jordàn Villalobos, Winemaker, Miguel Torres Chile  

If you're a fan of Spanish wines, Miguel Torres is a very familiar name; the family-owned winery's legacy in Spain spans 150 years. Not content with making wine exclusively in their homeland, in the 1970s, they set their sights on the Southern Hemisphere, and Miguel Torres Chile was founded in 1979. Miguel Torres was the first foreign winery to arrive in Chile, bringing know-how, passion, innovation, and a respect for Chilean culture.  I recently had the pleasure of chatting on Instagram Live with their winemaker Eduardo Jordàn Villalobos. 

Stainless steel vats and French oak barrels were introduced to Chile by Miguel Torres-- innovations that played a pivotal role in the evolution of Chilean wines. Strong advocates of sustainability and environmental stewardship, they are founding members of the International Wineries for Climate Action and were named Social Visionary of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2019.



During our chat, we tasted Miguel Torres Chile Estelado Brut Rose País($18.99), the first Chilean sparkling wine made from País, Chile's oldest grape variety. Crafted in the traditional method, it is crisp and refreshing with lively flavors of strawberry, cherry, and a hint of tangerine. 

We also sipped Miguel Torres Chile VIGNO Vignadores de Carignan ($20.99). Crafted from old bush vines that are at least 30-years-old, it delivers lots of character at a great price point. Rustic but elegant, it is big but balanced with rich fruit flavors, hints of herbs, subtle oak, and bright acidity. 

Celebrate the Holidays with Chilean Wines!

If you've been walking past the Chilean wines in your local wine shop, stop right now! Chile excels at producing wonderful wines that won't break the bank. From international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay to local stars such as Carmenère and Pais; Chile produces an impressive array of beautifully crafted wines.

I recently had the pleasure of sharing some Chilean vino and conversation with Marybeth Bentwood, executive director of Wines of Chile.

Watch the video to learn more about Chilean wines, pairing suggestions, and why Chile is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The video features three Chilean wines that are perfect for the holidays. Keep reading for more details about the featured wines - all prices are approximate. Cheers!


Miguel Torres Santa Digna Estelado Sparkling Pais Rosé ($20)
Dazzle your guests with this gorgeous and unique sparkling vino. The world's only sparkling wine made from the Pais grape, it is a stunning coppery shade with fine bubbles and vibrant flavor. A fabulous gift for the sparkling wine lover in your life. 

Santa Carolina Reserva de Familia Chardonnay ($18)
Expressive and elegant with lively citrus flavors and a hint of tropical fruit. A touch of spice and vanilla from French oak add texture and complexity. A great match with seafood or herb roasted chicken. 

Undurraga T.H. (Terroir Hunter) Carignan 2011 ($18)
Rich, juicy, and earthy with soft tannins and concentrated pure fruit. An elegant expression of Carignan that will pair beautifully with roasts and lamb.