Alpaca Wines: A new Chilean star arrives in Manila

SOMETHING exciting was just uncorked in Manila’s wine scene.

On June 4, Golden Wines, Inc., one of the country’s most respected wine importers and distributors, officially launched Alpaca  Wines, a brand that has taken Asia by storm. The event, held at the stylish Ruby Wong Bar of the Admiral Hotel – M Gallery Collection along Roxas Boulevard, was hosted by Felipe Meneses, area manager of brand owner VSPT. This marked not only the arrival of a new international favorite but also the celebration of Golden Wines’ 20^th anniversary — two decades of bringing world-class wines to Filipino tables.

FROM JAPAN’S BESTSELLING WINE TO ASIA’S FAVORITEAlpaca Wines, made in Chile, has become a phenomenon across Asia. It is Japan’s bestselling Chilean wine brand for 10 consecutive years now, and the bestselling wine brand of the last five years: a remarkable achievement in one of the world’s most competitive wine markets.

Alpaca was first launched in the Netherlands in 2007 and then brought to Japan in 2012. Since 2019, Alpaca has steadily expanded its reach, finding enthusiastic audiences in Asia, including Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand, where its approachable style, friendly pricing, and consistent quality have made it a new household name among wine lovers.

Now, the Philippines joins this growing circle of Alpaca enthusiasts.

Golden Wines, Inc., known for its keen eye for brands that resonate with Filipino consumers, is confident that Alpaca will follow the success of its other animal-themed wine icons — Yellow Tail from Australia, with its signature kangaroo, and Gato Negro from Chile, with its sleek black cat. Both have become staples in Filipino homes. Alpaca, with its charming golden silhouette of the South American mammal, is poised to be the next star in this lineup.

THE STORY BEHIND THE NAME
The alpaca, a gentle creature from the Camelidae family (which also includes camels and llamas), symbolizes warmth, resilience, and companionship — qualities that mirror the brand’s philosophy. As our host, Felipe Meneses, mentioned in his brief introduction, “Alpaca Wines are crafted to be friendly, versatile, and easy to enjoy, whether shared over dinner with friends or poured during casual celebrations.” The brand’s tagline, “Great Wine, Great Times” captures this spirit perfectly.

In Japan and other Asian markets, Alpaca has earned praise for its balance of quality and affordability. Its wines are known for their smooth textures, fruitforward profiles, and elegant finish — characteristics that appeal to both seasoned wine drinkers and newcomers alike.

The Philippine portfolio will initially feature three variants:

• Cabernet Merlot – a harmonious blend offering ripe berry notes and soft tannins;

• Cabernet Sauvignon – bold and structured, ideal for grilled meats and hearty dishes; and,

• Chardonnay-Semillon – a refreshing white with citrus and tropical fruit tones, perfect for our tropical climate.

The Cabernet Merlot and Chardonnay-Semillon are Japan’s bestselling red and white wine, respectively.

These selections reflect Alpaca’s commitment to accessibility without compromising craftsmanship. More variants will follow once the right distribution levels and volume are achieved.

Golden Wines’ strategy of introducing animal-branded wines has proven remarkably effective. In a market where visual identity and emotional connection matter, these brands stand out not only for their quality but also for their memorable imagery. The kangaroo of Yellow Tail, the black cat of Gato Negro, and now the alpaca — each evokes a sense of personality and charm that resonates with consumers.

This approach taps into a universal truth: wine is not just about taste; it’s about storytelling. The animal icons serve as ambassadors of their respective origins — Australia’s vibrant energy and Chile’s mysterious allure, joined now by the alpaca’s gentle grace. For Filipino wine drinkers, these symbols make the experience more relatable and enjoyable, bridging cultures through shared appreciation.

A TOAST TO NEW BEGINNINGS
As Golden Wines celebrates two decades of success, the introduction of Alpaca marks a new chapter in its journey. The company’s track record with international brands speaks for itself: from the global dominance of Yellow Tail to the enduring popularity of Gato Negro, Golden Wines has consistently identified wines that capture the Filipino palate and imagination.

Alpaca’s arrival continues this legacy. It represents not just another addition to the portfolio but a reaffirmation of Golden Wines’ mission — to make quality wines accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful. The brand’s combination of Chilean heritage, Japanese acclaim, and Asian appeal positions it as a strong contender for the next success story in Philippine wine culture.

As the Alpaca tagline goes: “Great Wine, Great Times” — and now, we can add “Great New Beginning.”

For more information about Alpaca wines, contact Golden Wines, Inc. at (02) 8638-5025 or e-mail info@goldenwines.com.

Sherwin Lao is the first Filipino wine writer member of both Bordeaux-based Federation Internationale des Journalists et Ecrivains du Vin et des Spiritueux (FIJEV) and the UK-based Circle of Wine Writers (CWW). For comments, inquiries, wine event coverage, wine consultancy, and other wine-related concerns, e-mail the author at wineprotege@gmail.com, or check his wine training website https://thewinetrainingcamp.wordpress.com/services/. Also check out his YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@winecrazy.