Chilean sparkling wine, also known as Espumante, is a type of sparkling wine produced in Chile, mainly in the wine regions of the Central Valley and the Bío Bío Valley.
The grape varieties used in the production of Chilean sparkling wine include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc, with some producers using a range of other grape varieties as well.
The production process for Chilean sparkling wine typically follows the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle, similar to champagne. The wine is made by first producing a still wine, which is then bottled with a mixture of yeast and sugar to undergo a second fermentation. This process creates carbon dioxide and gives the wine its bubbles.
After fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for a period of time, usually several months or even years, to develop its flavors and aromas. The wine can be produced in a variety of styles, from dry to sweet, and can be white or rosé in color.
Chilean sparkling wine is often drunk as an aperitif and pairs well with a range of dishes, including seafood, sushi and light salads.