Cynthia Ortiz: “We Are an Essential Part of the Terroir”

The ranking of The Drinks Business is based on the results obtained in blind tastings within the Global Wine Masters. From your perspective, what is the value of this type of recognition in such a competitive international context?

Beyond the ranking itself, what truly matters is precisely that: the result stems from a blind tasting. It places the emphasis squarely on the wine’s intrinsic quality — and in such a fiercely competitive arena, for a Chilean wine to stand out on objective merit sends a powerful signal. For me, it confirms that sustained, often quiet work does indeed yield results..

Beyond the award, what oenological decisions -whether in the vineyard, in the winery or in the definition of style- do you feel are decisive for your wines to achieve distinctions like this one?

I am a great believer in precision: harvesting at exactly the right moment, carefully managed extractions, and — most importantly — maintaining a clear stylistic definition and refining it in every detail.

Trends come and go, and it can be tempting to follow them. For my part, I believe I have remained faithful to a consistent line over time, focused on balance and the expression of origin. On that foundation, we have continued to refine our approach year after year, learning how to reveal the full potential of our grapes in every bottle.

As the only Chilean woman in this edition, your presence also opens up a broader conversation. How do you evaluate the presence of women in technical and leadership positions in the Chilean wine industry today?

I think we have come a long way in the inclusion of women in the wine industry; today there are many women in technical and leadership positions who are doing solid work. It is also true that there are many others working “behind the scenes” and perhaps the next step is to give visibility to that work.

On a personal level, I believe that when preparation and professionalism are present, the focus should rest on the work itself — not on gender. What truly matters is that opportunities remain open, and that those who are prepared are able to step forward and assume them.

In recent years, the international discourse around Chile has evolved — toward origin, freshness, valley identity, and sustainability. Which narrative do you believe is positioning the country most effectively abroad?

I believe Chile is at its strongest when it speaks from its own identity: natural freshness, a diversity of valleys, and an increasingly mindful approach to viticulture When we move away from imitating styles and present one that is distinctly our own, the message becomes far more compelling.

The wine world faces global challenges — shifting consumption patterns, sustainability demands, and new generations of consumers whose preferences have reshaped the sector. How do you see Chile within this landscape, and what opportunities do you envision for the country in the medium

New generations are looking for authenticity, coherence, and purpose. Sustainability s no longer optional; it has become part of the standard. In this context, I believe it is essential that we bring wine closer to the consumer and transform it into an experience — not merely a liquid in a bottle. To achieve that, the way we communicate wine is fundamental.

Finally, from your personal perspective, what do you think Chile has not yet fully shown the world — and what could define the next stage of its international positioning?

I believe Chile has not yet fully revealed its human diversity. Behind every wine there are stories, teams, and cultures that may not be sufficiently known. That is where the next stage lies. After all, people are an integral part of terroir. terroir.