Welcome back wine friends! In this exciting episode we return with part two of our conversation with Amanda Barnes, a newly crowned Master of Wine and an authority on South American wine. Amanda shares her deep knowledge of Criolla grape varieties, the history and culture of South American winemaking, and the unique techniques that are helping preserve ancient vines.

You can buy Amandas book HERE!

Before diving into the world of South American wine, I have some exciting news! I have been nominated for the Wine Travel Awards in the Influencer category for expert opinion. The awards celebrate the best in wine tourism and education, and your support could make a big difference. Your support would mean the world to me as I continue sharing my passion for wine with fellow enthusiasts. It takes one click to vote. So please VOTE HERE.

And to listen to my previous episode (Ep 143) on Criolla Varieties - you can listen HERE.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.30: Amanda Barnes MW explains the origin of Criolla grapes and their genetic identification.

05.48: Discussion on the historical background of Listán Prieto and its impact on South American wines.

07.31: Amanda shares her fascination with old vines in Chile and the overlooked potential of Criolla varieties.

09.00: Challenges in gaining recognition for Criolla wines and the push to preserve old vines.

11.32: Highlighting the distinctive character of Pais in Chile and Criolla Chica in Argentina.

14.00: Quality potential of Criolla Grande and Ceresa for lighter red wines and rosés.

15.30: Exploring the different Torrontés varieties and their unique profiles.

18.00: Genetic confusion surrounding Torontel and the challenge of identifying new Criolla varieties.

20.30: Ancestral winemaking techniques in Chile, such as the use of the Zaranda de-stemmer and amphora aging.

23.00: The role of Criolla varieties in shaping South American wine culture.

25.00: Bolivia’s unique vine cultivation with trees and the distinctive flavors from Moscatel de Alejandría

29.00: Extreme winemaking in South America through high altitudes, southern latitudes, and coastal regions.

35.30: Mendoza highlighted as the epicenter of South American wine with diverse terroirs and excellent tourism.

41.00: One of the most beautiful vineyards: Laberinto in Maule, Chile.

44.00: Where to find and connect with Amanda Barnes:

Instagram @amanda_wine and @southamericawineguide 

And a reminder to vote for me for the Wine Travel Awards. It will only take a second: 

https://winetravelawards.com/nominee/janina-doyle/

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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