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San Francisco is an exceptionally rare, historic red grape variety, mostly found in the old vineyards of Southern Chile (the Bio Bio and Itata valleys). This variety produces very light, bright ruby-colored, and vibrantly fruity red wines. It offers an authentic experience for those seeking natural, rustic-style drinks that reflect the true heritage of South American winemaking.
Read moreThis variety is experiencing a true renaissance thanks to artisan winemakers dedicated to preserving historic vines. When choosing a wine, look for indications of old vineyards.
The highest quality San Francisco wines are made from vines that are often over 100 years old. Such old, dry-farmed bush vines yield a very small harvest, but the berries boast immense flavor concentration. The wines smell of fresh strawberries, herbs, and wild flowers, demonstrating surprising elegance.
Due to its very soft tannins and light body, San Francisco wine is an excellent everyday companion, often compared to Beaujolais or light Pinot Noir wines. It pairs perfectly with South American cuisine: meat pastries (empanadas), grilled chicken, stewed vegetables, and light cheeses.
The San Francisco grape arrived in South America with the first Spanish missionaries. Although it nearly disappeared in Europe (where it is known as "Molinera" or by other names), it survived completely untouched by the phylloxera epidemic in the isolated valleys of Southern Chile. Today, these original vines are a true treasure of the gene pool.
Absolutely! Because of its fruitiness and light tannic structure, San Francisco wines are ideal candidates for a light chill (down to 14 °C). This temperature perfectly highlights the crisp berry aromas, making it a wonderful drink for warm summer evenings.
