LI vintner tracking Chilean imports
The earthquake this past weekend in Chile hit in an area that produces much of its wines. (Undated) Credit: iStock
Banfi Vintners of Old Brookville is keeping a close eye these days on events in Chile, where a powerful earthquake struck Saturday morning. Banfi, one of the largest wine importers in the United States, imports from Chile's biggest winemaker, Concha y Toro.
Jane Kettlewell, a Banfi spokeswoman, said Banfi was relieved to learn that Concha's employees and family members are safe.
But, she said, three of Concha's 11 facilities in Chile were severely damaged. The eight others are operational, although some have been somewhat damaged. The Concha wines are Banfi's No. 2-selling brand, after Riunite.
"Right now, we have a sufficient inventory in the U.S. to cover our needs, so we're not unduly concerned about any shortfall," Kettlewell said.
But, she said, shortages cannot be ruled out in the future.
"There's been a loss of wine," Kettlewell said. "That's what they're still evaluating. They have not been able to tell us how much wine has been lost or which wines have been lost."
Key imports from Chile include Casillero Del Diablo, Frontera, Xplorador and the premium Marques De Casa Contra.
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