The winemaker behind Viña Santa Rita’s Floresta range was recognized as one of the “Rising Figures,” positioned as a key protagonist in the next generation of Chilean wine.

La CAV, one of Chile’s most influential wine publications, released its feature “The Most Influential Figures in Chilean Wine”, a snapshot of the industry’s present and future based on the insights of over 40 leading voices in the sector. The report included three categories: “Rising Figures,” “Referents,” and “Projects”, and Teresita Ovalle, winemaker of Viña Santa Rita’s Floresta range, was selected in the first group as one of five women winemakers poised to lead the next chapter of Chilean wine.

“All women. All leading brands that are slowly reflecting their personal style. These are the winemakers we’re watching to ensure Chilean wine remains relevant and compelling,” reads the article, which highlights Ovalle’s career path, potential, and the work she has led since 2022 with Floresta, Santa Rita’s most innovative and experimental range. “A signature style that has earned her recognition and, with patience, is shaping her into a professional with clear potential for the big leagues,” the article adds.

An agricultural engineer from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Ovalle began her career in Europe with harvests in Tuscany, the Rhône Valley, and Sancerre. She joined Viña Carmen in 2015 as assistant winemaker, and in 2017 became part of the Viña Santa Rita team. Five years later, she took on the leadership of Floresta, a collection that explores the potential of specific terroirs through a contemporary lens and low-intervention winemaking, offering a fresh take on classic varieties.

“I believe she truly represents the spirit of this new generation of winemakers, and I see great potential for her in the future of Chilean wine. She’s been leading a major winery like Santa Rita, alongside the great Sebastián Labbé,” commented sommelier Marcelo Pino. Winemaker Rosario Fillol, from Viñedos de Alcohuaz, added: “She maintains the essence of a very traditional winery, but with her own personal touch.”

This new recognition adds to the accolade she received in late 2024, when she was named Young Winemaker of the Year by La CAV’s tasting panel.