Wine and Surrounds

Chile's capital Santiago lies in the geographic centre of the country and is fortunate enough to be situated in one of the most fertile wine-producing regions in the world. Just a short drive south of the city is the Maipo Valley, home to some of the most well-known Chilean wines as well as lesser known boutique wineries. Further south still is the Colchagua Valley, undisputed wine centre of Chile with a terroir perfectly suited to producing full-bodies red wines. The crisp tropical fruit notes of white wines from the sauvignon grape are from the Casablanca Valley, west of the capital towards Valparaiso on the Pacific Coast, well worth stopping for a tasting enroute to this pretty historic port town.

Many of these well-established wineries have developed superb accommodation, nestled in among the vines, where you can learn more about grape cultivation while enjoying gourmet cuisine in elegant surroundings. March to May brings the ripening of the grapes and an opportunity to participate in the harvest or vendimia if you wish.