Among the Central Valley wines, Maipo, south of the capital city of
Santiago, is small but well-represented on export labels; it produces
white and red wines about equally, particularly Semillon and Cabernet
Sauvignon, the best of which have well-developed fruit aromas, full
body and barrel age. In the Rapel area, Semillon and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes predominate. The up-and-coming Colchagua sub-region to the south saw large investments in the 1990's by boutique wineries, whose wines have begun to attract substantial critical attention and international awards. A new concentration on hillside plantings promises even more wines with excellent local terroir character. Red wine is establishing itself as king in this area, at least thus far. Notable Colchagua Cabernet Sauvignons may also incorporate Merlot or Cabernet Franc in dense, oaky, full-flavored wines. Colchagua also produces notable Carmen�re, Malbec and Syrah as well as some distinguished Chardonnay.
