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Chile wine regions offer more than wine tastings and gastronomy experiences. These stunning regions offer breath-taking scenery and experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Read on and discover the top 5 wine regions of Chile that we know you’re going to love.
An icon of Chilean wine, Colchagua Valley is located in central Chile. Here you will find some of the most prestigious wine of the country. Surrounded by coastal hills, this region enjoys a constant Mediterranean climate and is home to some of the best red wine in the world. There’s no better place to indulge in full-bodied wines such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, a Malbec or a rare Carmenere. While you’re here, explore the many fascinating museums that Colchagua is home to, including Museo de Colchagua. Showcasing everything from ceramics to religious artefacts to cowboy gear, this exhibition is not one to miss!
Located just south of Santiago, the Maipo Valley boasts a rich history and is a must-see for any wine lover. The valley where Spanish conquistadors planted the first vineyards, the wine of this area is not only historic but also delicious. Although celebrated for the beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon it produces, the region also grows a wide variety of vines including Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Because it is so close to the city centre and accessible by public transport, it is possible to see the best of the Maipo Valley alone. However, if you are interested in delving into the history of this stunning area–whilst enjoying a few drinks– we recommend a tour.
Maipo Valley offers some absolutely stunning scenery that makes for great exploring inbetween winery visits. We recommend hiking the Cerro Manquehuito, the trail is clearly marked and offers exquisite views.
You will find Chile’s most famous wine region, Casablanca Valley along the eastern border of Valparaiso. With cool afternoon breezes and a generally cooler climate, it is this environment that makes the wine of the region unique. Renowned for its exquisite white wines, this is an area you certainly can’t miss. Make sure you spend a full day here; enjoy the gourmet cuisine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc and views of the endless coastal vineyards…
The largest wine producing region in Chile, the Maule Valley boasts over 75,000 acres of vineyard. Originally known for mass production of the Pais vine, the area now specialises in the Cabernet Sauvginon and Carmenere grapes. Today the area moves away from bulk vinification and towards quality. Here, you can enjoy wine made from some of the oldest vines in Chile. If you can’t go past a good Cabernet Sauvignon, you simply can’t go past the Maule Valley. With most wineries open all year round, this up-and-coming wine region is one you simply must visit.
Located 200km north of Santiago, the Limari Valley is the northernmost winegrowing region of Chile. Close to both the equator and the Atacama Desert, the valley is hot and quite dry. This area and climate is perfect for creating fantastic Chardonnay and Syrah grapes, as well as the unique Carmenere. Previously, grapes grown in the Limari Valley were used for Pisco or as simple table grapes. Today, they are transformed into something delicious.
During your time in the Limari Valley, make sure you include a stop at the Monumento Arqueologico Valle del Encanto. Step back in time as you explore this gallery of rock art, which dates to pre-Columbian times. See pictographs and petroglyphs that display stick figure men and alien figures, as well as mortars once used for ceremonial plants and food.
Many overlook Chile as a wine connoisseur’s heaven–but it really is just that. These are just some of our favourite areas; Chile is home to an array of different regions and innumerable vineyards and wineries. Situated amongst a breathtaking landscape, nothing is better than watching the sunset over the valley with a delicious glass of Chilean wine in hand.
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