Chile Wine Tours Redux
Chile Wine Tours – We can’t get enough of South American wine. There’s just something about the Latin American grapes that keeps us coming back again and again. Chile, in particular, is renowned for its cool coastal breezes, extended warm summers and moderate rainfall– all of which are pretty ideal for winemaking… and for dream vacations!
When we first wrote about Chile Wine Tours back in January, we focused primarily on the easily accessible Maipo region for its convenience to the capital of Santiago. Although this was intended as an easy intro for first time travelers to the country, we felt it was about time for a little more in-depth look at this long coastal wonderland, its numerous distinct wine valleys and their varietals.
All in, there are more than 20 total wine valleys in Chile, and these are grouped into three broad areas. Today, we’ll focus on a handful of our favorites. Here is their story in pictures (all travel times are from Santiago):
ACONCAGUA VALLEY
There are no hotels we recommend in the Aconcagua Valley, but due to its close proximity to Santiago, we suggest staying overnight in Chile’s capital.
CASABLANCA VALLEY
There are no recommended accommodations in the Casablanca Valley, but it is conveniently located near both Santiago and Valparaiso where there are several lovely choices.
SAN ANTONIO VALLEY
Although San Antonio Valley is within easy day trip distance of Santiago, we highly recommend an overnight at antique, Spanish-style Casona Matetic following a day of wine tastings in the valley. You’ll love their large rooms and huge beds!
MAIPO VALLEY
Although there are several places we love for lunch, including Foundation Origen and Santa Rita, we suggest staying in Santiago when your wine tasting day is done.
CACHAPOAL VALLEY
Travelers visiting the Cachapoal Valley should always stay at the new Vina Vik. This welcoming oasis is one-part modern, art-focused resort and one-part premium winemaker. You’ll never want to leave!
COLCHAGUA VALLEY
Wine lovers in the Colchagua Valley won’t want to miss staying at the uber contemporary and very private Lapostolle Residence to enjoy a gourmet dining and spectacular architecture.
MAULE VALLEY
We recommend staying at the family-owned Hacienda Mingre on the grounds of the J Bouchon family winery and vineyards while in the Maule Valley. The personalized attention and intimate vibe are one-of-a-kind.
No matter where you choose to spend time on your Chile wine tour, we ensure you’ll enjoy a premium program with exclusive access to winemakers and their vineyards and wineries. We can customize your tour to as many days as you like and include visits, tastings, lunches and even a ton of great surprises along the way, such as helicopter tours, horseback riding and more. We’re also happy to customize guided bike and wine itineraries for those who want to peddle through the countryside between vineyards.
If you’re ready to sip and swirl through Chile’s wine country, contact us today to begin planning your dream vacation.
