Neutral auctions – we don't know where we are going but for the moment we have some time and space to find out. This is the heart of Chilli, and neutral auctions differ in principle in three major ways from most other bidding systems:
In neutral auctions, Chilli gives priority to the majors at all times
A major suit fit is more valuable than one in a minor suit: you need one less trick for game, contracts score more, you have the edge in a competitive auction, and minor-suited hands often play and score better in no-trumps. So why, holding both a major and a minor suit, should you bid the minor first?Chilli neutral jump bids show fit or distribution rather than strength
Modern bidding theory stresses that hand type is at least as important as strength, particularly on hands with support for partner. And until we find a fit, we need all the bidding space we can get to explore for one.In a Chilli neutral auction, bid if partner is unlimited, but pass if you want otherwise
In most systems, bids are characterised as to whether they are forcing or not, and often as to whether they force the bidding to a certain level or for a certain time. Chilli has a different approach in neutral auctions. Chilli bidders put importance on finding the right spot, and are prepared to risk going on to find it. Since jumps are not available to keep things going, many neutral Chilli bids do not limit the bidding when in other systems they might do so.Now look at the rules by which these principles are enacted.