PART II – Battle of the Pacific Coast: California vs Chile

Posted on June 24, 2014 by Kevin

It is clear that both countries could each take up multiple issues of the Viniminutes because they are powerhouses in the world of wine in their own right. Here are some interesting facts about the two:

	California	Chile
When did they start growing grapes for wine?	In the late 18^th century, Franciscan missionaries planted vines near San Diego.	In the mid 16^th century Spanish Conquistadors planted grape planted vines near Santiago.
How do they rank in terms of worldwide production?(2012)	The United States ranks 4^th worldwide, but California produces almost all of the wine. (2012)	10^th worldwide (2012)
…and of exports?	6^th (2011)	5^th (2011)
Principal red grapes(by hectares planted and market significance)	Zinfandel (signature grape) Cabernet sauvignon Pinot Noir Merlot Syrah	Carmenere (signature grape) Cabernet sauvigon Merlot Syrah
Principal white grapes(by hectares planted and market significance)	Chardonnay Pinot gris Sauvignon blanc	Sauvignon blanc Chardonnay
Key appelation	Napa Valley	Maipo
Claim to fame	Beating out French wine in competition, with a panel of French judges (1976).	Top value for money, second to none.
Trials and tribulations	Prohibition of the production and sale of alcohol (1920-1933).	Political unrest and economic downturns (1970s-80s)
Significant wine and viticultural research hub	UC Davis Department of viticulture and enology (1935)	Quinta Normal de Agricultura (1850)