The Andes effect
The longest continuous mountain range in the world, the Andes have a huge impact on the
wines of both Chile and Argentina.
Snow-capped all-year round, the mountains have a cooling effect on the vineyards in Chile and Argentina.
Icy winds blowing from the mountains balance the air temperature, allowing grapes to ripen longer on the vines.
At night, the temperatures drop, sometimes as much as 15 - 20°C. This difference between day and night
temperatures and the longer ripening period allows the grapes to develop intense colour and flavour, whilst
maintaining natural acidity.
Forming Chile’s eastern border, the Andes Mountains effectively protect Chile from invading
pests and phylloxera. Chile has always been free from phylloxera, a vine pest which is the blight
of most other country’s vineyards.
Cool climate wines
A staggering 4,200 kilometres long from top to tail, Chile is only 250 kilometres wide.
So a great many of Chile’s vineyards are near the Pacific Ocean. This proximity to the sea and the
cold Humbolt Current that runs through it has a dramatic cooling effect on the vineyards. Some of Chile's
best vineyards have a maritime climate. Sea fogs roll inland in the mornings, keeping the vineyards cool.
Throughout the day, cooling sea breezes balance the air temperature, preserving natural acidity and
freshness in the grapes. These coastal vineyards are ideal for the production of white grapes and Pinot Noir.
On the other side of the Andes, the mountains slope more gently onto the plateau. In Argentina's largest
wine region, Mendoza, the average vineyard is 900 metres above sea level. Higher altitudes mean lower
temperatures along with increased sunlight intensity. At higher altitudes, the difference between day and night
temperatures is marked. This unique set of conditions allows grapes to develop intense colour and ripe,
complex flavours.
Between a rock and a hard place
Some of best vineyards are planted in the foothills of the Andes, where the soils are infertile and
very rocky. This type of soil is ideal for producing low volumes of high quality grapes. Water drains
freely through the rocks and the viticulturists, the people who look after the vineyards and tend to the
vines, can manage the growth and yield of the vine very effectively to get the best results.