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Chilean winery to drive premium wine in UK market

Mario Pablo Silva, managing director Viña Casa Silva, is determined to promote the estate's premium wines and ensure the longevity of Chilean wine in the UK

Mario Pablo Silva Viña Casa Silva

“With close to 900 million litres of wine imported each year, the UK is one of the world’s largest and most competitive wine markets,” says Mario Pablo. “In order to establish our brand and validate the quality of our portfolio, we must offer our finest wines.

“Competitive price wars and excessive mass production have threatened the potential of the Chilean Wine industry and, to rival the best wine producing countries in the world, Chile has to identify its strengths, redefine the category and ensure we are only producing wines of quality.”

In particular, Mario Pablo believes, Chile should be championing its indigenous Carmenere grape variety over Cabernet Sauvignon, which currently has the biggest volume production.

Since 2010 Viña Casa Silva has conducted significant research into the varied terroirs and regions in Chile, resulting in new discoveries such as the excellent potential for cool coast wines and the identification of pure Carmenere clones.

To further its research, the estate has developed close relationships with some of the world’s leading academic institutions specialising in agriculture and viticulture. Mario Pablo also believes producers should work with the Chilean government and tourist board to share the purity and diversity of our country in all markets

As well as investing in research, Mario Pablo says he will be working closely with each of Casa Silva’s UK partners to promote and drive greater awareness of Chilean wines and the importance of sustainability in winemaking.

“Sustainable winemaking is a significant practice needed for making premium wines and a trend, which appeals to the UK market, which receives 23% of all Chilean wine exports, and 17% of all sales.

Casa Silva is a family-run winery. Selling 100% estate grown, terroir-driven wines to more than 50 countries, In 2015, Viña Casa Silva was awarded more than eight international awards.

18 January 2016