Chilean wines
The viticulture in Chile was started by Spanish settlers, but consists mainly of French grape varieties. The vineyards are located in the middle of the country between the Andes and the coast. The area is very fertile; many hours of sunshine during the day and in the evening the Humboldt stream from the Pacific Ocean gives a cooling effect. A successful combination has been made between tourism and viticulture. In addition to a number of well-known grape varieties, Chile also has its own speciality, the carmenère, similar to a sturdy merlot. The taste of Chilean wines is characterized by a full and juicy taste
From Santiago de Chile you can visit different wine regions on your own with a rental car or organised, but what's more fun to stay in one of the guest rooms between the vineyards. The closest area is the famous Maipo Valley where the Cabernet Sauvignon grape flourishes and where the vast vineyards of Concha y Toro and Santa Rita are located. More to the coast is the beautiful area of Casablanca where the white wines do well, wineries of Emiliana and Matetic are located here; this area combines well with a visit to bohemian Valparaiso and the modaine resort of Viña del Mar. The important colchagua valley wine region is a few hours' drive from Santiago de Chile; exclusive wineries like Lapostolle can be found here.