Sommeliers are known to be a tough bunch when it comes to choosing what goes on their wine lists. And they don’t lighten up when it comes to handing out Gold Medals in the Sommelier Wine Awards either. This year’s panel of 69 self-proclaimed “ruthless” judges, tasted 1,500 wines and whittled their choices down to just 130 Gold-Worthy choices.
Once again Chile shows its diversity with Gold Medals in a wide range of categories and varietals. In addition to Chile’s classic stand-outs: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon; its own signature grape Carmenere; and its new darlings Pinot Noir and Syrah; Chile also won medals for Pinot Grigio, Malbec, and red blend in the “other reds”category.
The list of Chilean winners in their respective categories follows.
For the full list of Gold Awards see: Imbibe.com
For more information see: Sommelier Wine Awards
HOUSE WINES
La Fonda Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Curicó Valley, Chile
Santa Rita Gran Hacienda Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Lontué Valley, Chile
Mountain Range Merlot 2009, Central Valley, Chile (also earned a “By the Glass” medal)
Tamarind Garden Cabernet/Merlot/Carmenere 2008, Central Valley, Chile
VARIETAL CLASSICS: PINOT GRIGIO
Morandé Reserva Pinot Grigio 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile (also earned “By the Glass” and “Food Match” medals)
NEW WORLD CHARDONNAY
Maycas del Limarí Reserva Especial Chardonnay 2008, Limarí Valley, Chile
NEW WORLD SAUVIGNON BLANC
Errázuriz 1870 Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Casablanca Valley, Chile
Echeverría Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2010, Curicó Valley, Chile
CABERNET SAUVIGNON, MERLOT & CABERNET FRANC: CHILE
Torreon de Paredes Reserva Privada Merlot 2007, Cachapoal Valley, Chile
SYRAH/SHIRAZ & GRENACHE: THE REST OF THE NEW WORLD
Undurraga Terroir Hunter Syrah 2008, Limarí, Chile
Agustinos Gran Terroir Syrah 2009, Aconcagua, Chile
PINOT NOIR: THE REST OF THE NEW WORLD
Ventolera Pinot Noir 2008, Leyda Valley, Chile
MALBEC
Agustinos Gran Terroir Malbec 2008, Bío Bío, Chile
CARMENERE
Caliterra Tributo Carmenere 2008, Colchagua Valley, Chile
OTHER REDS
Emiliana Organic Coyam 2008, Colchagua Valley, Chile (also won “Food Match” medal)
Pérez Cruz Liguai 2008, Maipo Alto, Chile