A year of contrasts for the Chilean wine industry
2024 was a year of light and shadow for Chilean wine. Despite facing one of the most significant drops in production in recent decades — with a 15.6% decrease — the sector achieved strong export performance, driven largely by growing international demand and a consumer increasingly interested in quality, sustainability, and innovation.
According to the report “The Chilean Wine Market – Annual Analysis 2024” by Vinetur, Chile produced just over 930 million liters, affected by extreme weather events that hit key regions such as Maipo, Maule, and Curicó. Autumn rains, heatwaves, and delayed harvests caused a sharp decline, especially in wines made from table grapes, which fell by more than 66%.
Exports on the rise: Brazil leads the revolution
The flip side of this scenario was the dynamism of exports. During 2024, Chile exported 780 million liters of wine, a 14.4% increase in volume compared to the previous year, with revenues reaching 1.73 billion dollars. Although the average price dropped slightly, the momentum from key markets offset the difference.
One of the highlights of the year was Brazil, which became the main destination for Chilean bottled wine. With nearly 30% growth in volume and value, the Brazilian market showed its potential to become a strategic partner for the national industry. This boom is not only due to the Brazilian consumer’s greater affinity for Chilean wine, but also to the success of events that position wine as a cultural and sensory experience.
At Toral Wines & Spirits, we are committed to bringing quality to emerging wine markets. Brazil is key when it comes to positioning brands seeking markets with great potential due to its large population and low per capita wine consumption.
During our visit last week to the Brazilian market, we observed strong wine demand, and consumer experiences with the beverage — such as major events — are very important. We are always eager to continue building relationships in the market with restaurants and retailers. One incredible event is “Hidden Brasilia,” where wine is a central element of this great experience.
In addition to Brazil, the United States and the United Kingdom showed signs of recovery. In contrast, China registered an 11.5% drop in bottled wine volume, reflecting a more uncertain trend in the Asian market.
An industry defined by sustainability and premiumization
Eighty percent of bottled wine exports came from wineries with sustainability certifications. Wineries such as Concha y Toro have intensified their environmental commitment with emission reduction and waste management programs.
Nevertheless, premium wines faced mixed performance. Wines priced over 40 dollars per case grew in volume but declined in value, highlighting pressure for more competitive pricing even in high-end segments.
Local consumption: opportunities and challenges
Domestically, wine continues to have a significant role, with a market estimated at 3.8 billion dollars. Although per capita consumption showed little variation — around 10.6 liters — younger generations are more willing to experiment: wine-based cocktails and mixed drinks are gaining popularity, and 64% of consumers say they want to learn more about wine. However, only 15% drink wine several times a week, leaving room for strategies to increase consumption frequency.
Projections: resilience in the face of uncertainty
Climate change is emerging as one of the main future challenges. The global decline in planted surface area, along with uncertainty about the actual number of hectares in Chile, presents a dilemma for the sector’s long-term sustainability. Investment in climate resilience, water management, and vineyard diversification will be required to remain competitive.
Despite these challenges, the projections are encouraging. The domestic market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.4% through 2034. Consolidation in markets such as Brazil allows Chile to balance out the decline in Asia. In this context, collaborative work between producers, distributors, and institutional stakeholders becomes crucial.
Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged: tradition and innovation in every sip
Among Chilean labels that have stood out for their originality and appeal to the modern consumer, Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged represents a unique proposition: a wine aged in tequila barrels, combining the elegance of the Chilean terroir with a bold and sophisticated sensory profile.
This wine becomes a sensory experience that captivates both experts and new consumers, drawing attention for its aromatic complexity and distinctive character. The product is part of the portfolio of Toral Wines & Spirits, a key player in promoting premium wines and spirits in Latin America, known for driving brands that cross borders and break the mold.
Whether on the shelves of a specialty store, on a restaurant’s wine list, or at exclusive tastings, Casa Donoso Tequila Barrel Aged reflects the innovative potential of Chilean winemaking and Toral Wines & Spirits’ commitment to connecting consumers with unforgettable offerings.
Source: https://www.vinetur.com/en/2025061388703/chilean-wine-exports-reached-dollar173-billion.html
