Enrique Tirado

Coming Up

Training at Universidad Católica de Chile gave Enrique Tirado an early framework for the work that would define his career: disciplined study, precision, and close attention to detail. That formation reads through his approach as measured, observant, and built on the patient accumulation of knowledge through time and repetition.

Where They Are Now

As CEO and Technical Director of Viña Don Melchor in Puente Alto, Chile, Enrique Tirado keeps the vineyard at the center of both decision-making and practice. His method pairs technical tools with direct observation, as he says: "I use technology as a tool to achieve greater knowledge, but over and above this, observing and feeling each plant and wine is what allows us to achieve the perfect balance in each vintage." The work behind that statement is practical: analysis on one side, close reading of the vineyard on the other. That same focus appears in his other stated view of the site: "For me, Don Melchor represents the constant search for the best expression of every vine in the vineyard with a view to achieving the beauty of the balance offered by the Puente Alto terroir, vintage after vintage." Read plainly, the priority is consistency of expression within each vintage, with the vineyard treated as a system to be worked, observed, and understood over time. Recognition has followed specific vintages rather than general claims. The 2021 vintage was named the best wine in the world by Wine Spectator in November 2024, the 2020 vintage was selected among Robb Report's Best of the Best Wines of the World, and the 2018 vintage was discussed in an Instagram Live with Wanda Mann.

Signature

Enrique's signature dishes include Don Melchor 2021 vintage, Don Melchor 2020 vintage, Don Melchor 2018 vintage, and Don Melchor 2017 vintage. Taken together, they read like a tasting through time, each vintage marking a different expression of the same enduring pursuit.

In Their Words “For me, Don Melchor represents the constant search for the best expression of every vine in the vineyard with a view to achieving the beauty of the balance offered by the Puente Alto terroir, vintage after vintage.” “I use technology as a tool to achieve greater knowledge, but over and above this, observing and feeling each plant and wine is what allows us to achieve the perfect balance in each vintage.”

Honors

The 2021 vintage was named the best wine in the world by Wine Spectator in November 2024. The 2020 vintage was selected among Robb Report's Best of the Best Wines of the World. The 2018 vintage was discussed in an Instagram Live with Wanda Mann.