The character of Chile’s wine production as well as that of wine importers from this South American country are changing rapidly. Often considered only a producer of non-descript and bulk wines, Chile is now making wines expressing unique winemaker styles and specific terroir.  

Here we profile three important forces in the Chilean wines that enter the US market: Vine Connections, VSPT Wine Group, and Global Vineyard. 

Wine importers and large producers play an essential role in shaping the availability and diversity of wine in the United States. Their expertise, focus on quality, and ability to identify unique wines from across the globe allow U.S. consumers to experience an array of wines that reflect regional traditions, terroir, and craftsmanship.  

Vine Connections, VSPT Wine Group, and Global Vineyard are three companies that exemplify this diversity, each contributing in unique ways to the U.S. market.

Image: Amayna Winery

Vine Connections stands out for its dedication to artisanal sake, wines, and spirits, with a portfolio that spans Japan, Argentina, and Chile. By representing small, family-owned producers, Vine Connections promotes a deep connection to both terroir and tradition. Their focus on high-quality products has allowed them to establish the largest portfolio of boutique Argentine and Chilean wines in the U.S., featuring over 70 wines from 20 brands. The company emphasizes the importance of not just drinking wine but experiencing it, highlighting how cultural and regional context enhances wine appreciation. 

The company also revolutionized the perception of Chilean wines through its ‘New Chile’ portfolio, launched in 2013. This portfolio focuses exclusively on appellation-based wines, marking a shift from Chile’s former image as a source of inexpensive bulk wines. By partnering with boutique wineries that emphasize quality over quantity, Vine Connections redefines Chilean wine as an expression of distinct regional characteristics, promoting family-owned wineries like J. Bouchon, Amayna, and Merino.

Source: The Buyer

Meanwhile, VSPT Wine Group leverages its deep roots in South American viticulture, with a history that spans over 150 years. As one of the world’s top 20 wine producers, VSPT maintains a leadership position in both the Chilean and Argentine wine markets. The group operates eight wineries, including renowned names like San Pedro and Leyda in Chile, and La Celia in Argentina. VSPT has established a global presence, exporting to over 90 countries, while also maintaining a commitment to sustainability. Their strategy combines environmental responsibility with innovation in wine production, exemplified by their goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.  

VSPT's sustainability initiatives, including generating 20% of their operational energy from renewable sources and reducing CO2 emissions, highlight their leadership in the industry. The group's extensive portfolio, including iconic brands like 1865 and Altair, reflects both the tradition and forward-thinking approach that define their success. Recently, their flagship brand Misiones de Rengo expanded into the U.S. market through a partnership with Terroir Connections, strengthening VSPT’s presence in one of the world’s most competitive wine markets. 

Finally, Global Vineyard Importers offers a more boutique approach, focusing on small, family-owned wineries from South America. Since its founding in 2001, the Berkeley-based importer has worked to build markets for lesser-known but high-quality wines, particularly from Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. Global Vineyard prides itself on its ability to introduce U.S. consumers to emerging varietals and artisan producers, many of whom emphasize sustainable and estate-based winemaking practices. By focusing on wines that communicate a sense of place, Global Vineyard ensures that consumers experience the unique qualities of the regions where the wines are made. Their portfolio, which includes varietals like Carmenere, Malbec, and Tannat, often introduces consumers to regions and producers they might not have otherwise encountered. 

These three importers demonstrate the critical role that U.S.-based companies play in connecting consumers with wines from distant regions. Whether through the introduction of pioneering boutique producers, a focus on sustainability, or a commitment to artisanal traditions, each company contributes to the ever-evolving wine landscape in the U.S. 

The on-premise trade should pay close attention to companies like Vine Connections, VSPT Wine Group, and Global Vineyard because they offer a broad array of premium, boutique wines from South America, tailored to diverse consumer preferences. Vine Connections delivers an expertly curated selection of Chilean and Argentine wines that emphasize terroir and small-scale production, offering restaurants and bars unique options for elevating their wine lists. 

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VSPT Wine Group, with its globally recognized brands and commitment to sustainability, provides the on-premise market with trusted names and wines that resonate with consumers focused on responsible choices. Meanwhile, Global Vineyard brings the on-premise sector wines from family-owned estates in South America, allowing establishments to introduce lesser-known varietals and regions to their clientele, creating memorable experiences with wines that stand out for their regional identity. All three offer distinctive wines that align with the evolving consumer interest in artisanal, sustainable, and terroir-driven products, making them essential partners for the on-premise trade looking to stay competitive.

Header Image Source: The Buyer

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