First vintage released from Lake Ranco

Chile’s southernmost vineyard has released its first vintage produced from the newly cultivated Lake Ranco region in Patagonia after seven years.

Owned by the family-run Casa Silva Estate, the vineyard is based 350km further south than Bio Bio stretching the boundaries of Chilean viticulture to its most southern point.

Mario Geisse, head winemaker and technical director said: “Due to the fact the area has little sunshine, in comparison to the rest of South America’s vineyards, the steep exposure and aspect of the vineyard is crucial.

“It allows us to utilise the sun alongside an exceptional natural drainage system.

“The volcanic, sedimentary rocks, with mixed types of sand, pyroclastic rocks and trumaos volcanic ash have allowed for high biological activity.

“The high levels of porous volcanic stones have created an underlying minerality, resulting in wines with great depth and a hugely exciting potential for further development.”

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were first planted at the site in 2006.

Seven years later the winery it is set to release its first vintage, and the world’s first wine produced from the region – Lake Ranco Sauvignon Blanc 2013 and Lake Ranco Pinot Noir 2013.

Mario Pablo Silva, managing director, said: explained, “As a winery we are continually looking to broaden our horizons and challenge the parameters of what is capable within Chilean winemaking.

“Ranco is cooler than any other wine region, and vintage variation is likely to be more dramatic, but the soils are ideal and we are delighted with our first harvest.

“The potential for the future is extremely exciting and we are delighted to be the first winery to carry out such a project!”

The wines are currently available within the domestic market with future plans to explore other markets.