Unique Chile Alcoholic Drinks That You Should Not Miss
Chileans are known for their love of fun, their knack for creating quirky drinks, and their enjoyment of watching foreigners try them! But don't worry, most of these drinks are delicious, per Scope.
While you might be familiar with famous Chile alcoholic drinks like red wines and pisco sours, there's a whole world of lesser-known Chilean beverages waiting to be discovered, especially if you venture into the countryside.
Here are some alcoholic drinks that you absolutely must try while you're in Chile.
Let's dive in and explore the flavors of this vibrant country!
Pisco Sour
The Pisco Sour is a favorite drink in both Peru and Chile, sparking a friendly debate over its origins, EmmaJean's Travels noted.
Peruvians claim it's theirs because they have a town called Pisco, while Chileans argue their northern Pisco locations prove it's Chilean.
Truth be told, Pisco likely originated from both places long before country boundaries were drawn.
Pisco, a type of brandy, isn't just for Pisco Sours, though it's the star of the show. You can find this iconic drink all over Chile, especially in the north.
The Pisco Sour is tangy, made with lemon juice, and topped with a tantalizing foam. It's a must-try Chile alcoholic drinks for anyone visiting the country!
Local Tap Beer
Craft beer gains traction in Chile, with homemade options gracing restaurant taps, offering blonde, amber, and black varieties.
Beer festivals showcase local brews.
Pro tip: Sample a Michelada with local blonde beer.
Kunstmann Brewery, situated near Valdivia, presents affordable, delightful brews at its location. Cheers!
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Chicha with Harina Tostada
If you're up for a unique experience, try adding some toasted flour, known as harina tostada, to your chicha.
This is a common practice in the central region of Chile, especially in the Maule region. It might take some getting used to because it's a bit strange to drink something that usually should be eaten.
The texture might seem a little odd at first, and you'll find a good amount of flour settled at the bottom of your drink. But don't worry, just add some more chicha, stir it, and sip again!
In addition to adding harina tostada to chicha, Chileans sometimes mix it with red wine or malt, especially in the countryside rather than in cities. It's all part of the diverse and fascinating drinking culture of Chile!
Carmenère - The Emblematic Chilean Red Wine
Carmenère holds a special status in Chile's wine landscape, reminiscent of Argentina's famed Malbec, according to Authentic Food Quest.
Originating from Bordeaux, France, Carmenère vines were thought to have vanished after the Phylloxera outbreak in 1867.
Surprisingly, they resurfaced in Chile in the mid-1990s, having been mistaken for Merlot for decades.
Our introduction to Carmenère took place in the Maule Valley and Maipo Valley, both significant wine regions in Chile.
The Maule Valley, where Chile's earliest vines were planted in the 16th century, boasts a rich wine history.
In the Maipo Valley, renowned for producing top-quality red wines, we indulged in Carmenère at various vineyards, including the prestigious Concha y Toro.
This red wine enchants with its deep color and soft, rounded taste.
Its bouquet of floral aromas intertwines with luscious berry flavors and subtle hints of smoky tobacco.
Carmenère stands as one of most delightful Chile alcoholic drink, a testament to its diverse and captivating drinking culture.
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This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Ross Key
WATCH: New Wine Recommendations: Carmenere, Chile's Best Red Wine? - From Wine Living: Wine, Spirits & Food with Marc Supsic
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