What happened to Chile?

Once a market favorite for its inexpensive, high-value red wines, Chile seems to have fallen from view. Argentina is the current South American darling for its malbec, which offers good bottles that span the price spectrum. Ask a wine lover where the bargains are, and you’ll hear Spain, Italy, France or Argentina, but rarely Chile.

The February 2010 earthquake that devastated southern Chile might have played a part; it hit the wine industry in that area of the country especially hard, but recovery was quick, and the 2010 and 2011 vintages were generous, so supply is good. The earthquake seems to have been a temporary setback.

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