The grape variety Pais

Pais is an ancient red grape variety with deep historical roots in South America, especially Chile, where it is recognized as one of the country’s foundational varieties. Wines produced from Pais are typically light- to medium-bodied, with a fresh and rustic character. The aromatic profile often reveals bright red fruits such as strawberry, red cherry, and raspberry, complemented by subtle notes of herbs, wildflowers, and earth. On the palate, Pais wines offer lively acidity, moderate alcohol, and soft tannins, resulting in an easy-drinking yet energetic style that can also show intriguing complexity in old-vine expressions.

The primary viticultural region for Pais is the southern part of Chile, notably the Maule, Itata, and Bio-Bio Valleys, where many vineyards boast vines aged over a century. Pais is most commonly made as a young, unoaked wine emphasizing vibrancy and purity of fruit, but traditional styles such as pipeño can showcase rustic charm and minerality.

Recommended food pairings include grilled poultry, cured meats, roasted vegetables, and mildly spiced dishes. Pais’s bright acidity and fruit-forward character make it a versatile companion for casual meals, artisanal charcuterie, and even certain seafood preparations like grilled salmon.