Taste Chilean wine in the Colchagua Valley

Chile is known not only for its extensive shape and varied nature, but also for its wine. Wine is made in several central valleys, like the Maipo Valley or Casablanca Valley. Another well-known valley is the Colchagua Valley. 

Where is the Colchagua Valley in Chile?

The Colchagua Valley lies in the central zone of Chile, specifically in the O'Higgins Region. The valley is situated approximately 180 kilometers southwest of Santiago, the country's capital. This privileged location grants it an ideal climate for viticulture, with warm and dry summers and mild winters.

The region has volcanic, granitic soil with clay and sand, which allows the production of a wide range of high-quality grape varieties.

Wine tour

If you are in Santiago, you can go on a day or weekend trip to discover the vineyards of the Colchagua Valley or other valleys. You can follow a guided tour to get up close to the winemaking process, from grape to glass, or enjoy a wine tasting. The wine will be paired with cheeses, cured meats, chocolate, or other products to enhance the flavors and aromas of each glass. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or horse riding between the vineyards will also give you a good impression of the region. 

Types of Chilean Wines

Carménère

The emblematic grape of Chile. Originally from Bordeaux, France, this variety found its perfect home in Chile. It has aromas of red fruits, spices, and peppers. On the palate, it is smooth, with rounded tannins and a long, pleasant finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon

One of the most widely cultivated red wine varieties in Chile. This wine is robust and intense, with notes of blackcurrant, plum and hints of tobacco and leather. Perfect for pairing with red meats and hearty dishes.

Merlot

Chilean Merlot is famous for its smoothness and balance. It presents aromas of black fruits, such as blackberries and plums, with a touch of chocolate and vanilla. It is a versatile wine, ideal to enjoy both on its own and with a good meal.

Syrah

This grape has adapted very well to the Chilean climate. People know this wine for its intensity and complexity, with notes of black fruits, spices, and a smoky touch. On the palate, it is robust and silky, with a persistent finish.

Sauvignon Blanc

This white wine is fresh and vibrant, with citrus, green apple, and freshly cut grass aromas. On the palate, it is refreshing and crisp, with balanced acidity. Ideal for pairing with seafood and salads.

Chardonnay

Chilean Chardonnay can range from fresh and light styles to more complex and structured ones, with barrel fermentation. It presents notes of apples, tropical fruits, and butter, with a creamy texture on the palate.

Pinot Noir

A delicate and elegant grape, known for its aromas of cherries, strawberries, and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, it is smooth and silky, with refreshing acidity. It is a perfect wine to accompany poultry and dishes with mushrooms.

Carménère Reserva

A delicate and elegant grape, known for its aromas of cherries, strawberries, and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, it is smooth and silky, with refreshing acidity. It is a perfect wine to accompany poultry and dishes with mushrooms.

Late Harvest

For sweet wine lovers, Late Harvest is a true delight. Made from overripe grapes, this wine presents aromas of honey, tropical fruits, and flowers. On the palate, it is sweet and luscious, with acidity that perfectly balances its sweetness.

Sparkling wines

Chile also produces excellent sparkling wines, mainly made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. These wines are fresh and elegant, with fine and persistent bubbles. They are ideal for celebrations or simply to enjoy a special toast.

What are the characteristics of the Colchagua Valley?

• Interesting climate: The Colchagua Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate that is ideal for viticulture. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are mild and rainy. This combination allows the grapes to ripen slowly. This way they develope a complexity of flavors and aromas that is hard to match.
  
  
• Diverse and rich soils: The soils are as varied as the wines they produce. From clayey to sandy and rocky soils, each type of soil brings unique characteristics to the grapes. This diversity allows winemakers to experiment and create wines with unique and distinctive flavor profiles.
  
  
• Tradition, knowledge and innovation: Colchagua not only has exceptional natural conditions but also a long winemaking tradition. The region's winemakers have passed down their knowledge from generation to generation. Although tradition is strong, Colchagua's producers do not lag behind in terms of technology and innovation. The use of modern techniques in viticulture and winemaking allows for improved quality and consistency of the wines, always maintaining respect for the terroir and sustainable practices.
  
  
• Microclimates: Within the valley, there are specific microclimates that allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of grape varieties. From Carménère, which has found its perfect home here, to Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chardonnay, each wine benefits from the unique conditions of its microclimate.

How to visit the Colchagua Valley? 

First, you need to take a flight to Santiago, Chile (Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, code SCL). Once in Santiago, you can opt for a guided excursion like a 3-day Colchagua Valley Wine Escape.

If you prefer to travel on your own, you can rent a car in the airport or in the city. The trip from Santiago to the Colchagua Valley takes approximately 2 to 3 hours via Route 5 South.

Or you can take a bus departing from Santiago's bus terminal to San Fernando or Santa Cruz, two of the main cities in the Colchagua Valley and go from there to a vineyard or your accommodation. 

The Colchagua Valley awaits you with its vineyards, rich history, and, of course, exceptional wines. Cheers!