Considerations to the Chilean viticulture in the second half of the 19th century. International exhibitions

Abstract

This study analyzes the participation and awards obtained by Chilean wines in interna­tional exhibitions between 1875 and 1897, as a his­torical background for the positioning of this industry in global markets. Through tables with primary information from these events, prominent actors, continuities and recognitions that forged the national wine export tradition are identified. The most outstanding and award-winning producers were José Tomás Urmeneta, Silvestre Ochagavía, Ramón Subercaseaux and Francisco Rojas Salamanca, among others. Obtaining gold medals symbolized the growing quality of Chilean wines. Likewise, the role of women winegrowers such as pioneers' widows was also relevant.

In the context of the development of Chilean viticul­ture in the 19th century, these universal exhibitions made it possible to initially position national wines in international markets, laying the foundations for ex­port expansion since the late 20th century. The study of historical sources makes visible foundational milestones of this strategic sector, so linked to Chilean identity.