Ricardo Grellet: Chile’s Leading Voice in Wine Culture
When speaking about Chilean wine, few names carry as much prestige as Ricardo Grellet, President of the Chilean Sommelier Association and Best Sommelier of Chile 2008. With decades of experience, Grellet has become one of the most influential figures in Latin America’s wine scene — a bridge between producers, consumers, and the country’s vibrant terroirs.
Beyond his professional accolades, Grellet is known for his passion for wine education. He has led national campaigns with wineries such as Viña Viu Manent in the Colchagua Valley, helping wine lovers learn how to taste and understand what makes Chilean wine unique. His approach combines technical mastery with a genuine appreciation for the land and the people who craft each bottle.
Colchagua Valley: The Beating Heart of Chilean Wine
Located just two hours south of Santiago, the Colchagua Valley is often called “the soul of Chilean wine.” With its rolling hills, Mediterranean climate, and century-old vineyards, it’s home to some of the country’s most iconic labels — from Clos Apalta and Viña Montes to Viu Manent and Los Vascos.
For Grellet, Colchagua represents a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, where boutique winemakers coexist with global brands, and each glass tells a story of passion, heritage, and sustainability.
Tasting Notes and Highlights by Ricardo Grellet
In a recent interview and tasting session, Ricardo Grellet selected the best wines in Colchagua that embody the valley’s diversity and character. His top recommendations include:
- Clos Apalta 2020 (Apalta Valley) – A world-class blend led by Carmenère and Merlot, praised for its structure, depth, and aging potential. Grellet describes it as “a wine that captures the mystique of Colchagua.”
- Montes Alpha M 2021 – A powerful, elegant red showcasing the valley’s bold expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. The sommelier notes its “silky tannins and precise balance between fruit and oak.”
- Viu Manent Single Vineyard Malbec 2022 – Reflecting Viu Manent’s commitment to craftsmanship, this Malbec stands out for its freshness and fine minerality.
- Los Vascos Le Dix 2022 – Grellet considers this one a “benchmark for modern Colchagua,” with notes of black fruit, cedar, and cocoa.
Each of these wines represents a different face of Colchagua — from the bold reds of Apalta to the refined elegance of San Carlos de Cunaco — illustrating why this valley continues to impress critics worldwide.
More Than Wine: A Journey Through Rural Chile
For Ricardo Grellet, tasting wine is not just about flavor — it’s about context. He often highlights the connection between wine, rural life, and local gastronomy. A visit to Colchagua is a sensory experience: pairing Carménère with pastel de choclo, enjoying lunch under ancient trees at Rayuela Wine & Grill, or exploring Fuegos de Apalta, where open-fire cuisine by chef Francis Mallmann meets the valley’s finest reds.
In his view, the future of Chilean wine tourism lies in authenticity — experiences that celebrate local producers, respect the environment, and invite travelers to slow down and connect.
Why Visit Colchagua Now
As the best wines in Colchagua by sommelier Ricardo Grellet gain attention among international audiences, more travelers are adding this valley to their Chile itineraries. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a curious explorer, Colchagua offers a perfect blend of culture, flavor, and serenity.
From boutique hotels among vineyards to horseback rides and spa retreats, this region welcomes visitors with open arms — and a glass of something extraordinary.
Plan your next escape at disfrutacolchagua.com and discover the best wines in Colchagua by sommelier Ricardo Grellet. Because in every bottle, there’s not just a taste of Chile — but a story of passion, people, and place.
