Chile has it all. The heritage of its ancient cultures, the Atacama Desert (the driest in the world), the fertile Central Valley, a Lake District the length of Sweden, the wilds of Patagonia, and the ice-filled wonders of Antarctica all squeezed into a narrow strip between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

It has now become one of the most important sources of inexpensive varietal wines in the world. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon – you name it. Chile does it, and does it well.

Most Chilean regions have fertile soils and a plentiful supply of irrigation water from rivers. The climate is generally hot, and most vines, especially for inexpensive wines, are planted on the floor of the Central Valley that runs north-south between the Coastal mountain range and the Andes.

As well as the traditional grape varieties, Chile is producing some truly brilliant Syrah and Pinot Noir. Be sure to seek out Carmenère the next time you’re on the hunt for a big, full red wine. For years this grape was mistaken by the Chileans for Merlot, and now that it’s almost extinct from its native homeland of Bordeaux, Chile has taken it on as its own. It makes powerful, spicy wines with low acidity, fairly high tannins and a velvety texture. Expect flavours of dark fruit (blackberry) and perhaps green bell pepper and green bean when under-ripe.

Chile operates a system of regional DOs (denominations of origin) in which regions are divided into sub-regions. You may be familiar with Central Valley, Rapel Valley, Maipo Valley and Casablanca Valley. Another very interesting region is Limarí, as you’ll find out from reading this recent blog post.

If you like to treat yourself to something over €10 the odd time, try a Chilean wine instead of a safe French or Australian. You’d be surprised at the quality vs price ratio at this level as well. Here’s a few excellent examples of the kind of value on offer, especially with an additional 10% off on marked prices.

Sierra Grande Sauvignon Blanc (Organically produced from Central Valley)

Santa Alicia Cabernet Sauvignon (Maipo Valley)

Tabali Carmenère (Limarí)

Villard Pinot Noir (Casablanca)