Discover Chile’s Premier Wine Region
The Aconcagua Valley, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, offers wine enthusiasts a unique terroir. This region’s climate and soil produce exceptional red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
Towns and Villages
The valley’s main town is San Felipe, serving as a hub for wine tourism. Nearby, Los Andes offers charming colonial architecture and access to hiking trails.
- San Felipe: Central location for wine tours
- Los Andes: Historical charm and outdoor activities
- Panquehue: Home to several notable wineries
Wine Producers
The Aconcagua Valley boasts world-class wineries. Here are some must-visit producers:
- Viña Errázuriz: Pioneer of the region, known for premium reds
- Viña San Esteban: Offers horseback riding tours through vineyards
- Viña Von Siebenthal: Boutique winery with Italian influence
- Flaherty Wines: Small-production, handcrafted wines
Winery Tours
Most wineries offer guided tours and tastings. Book in advance, especially during peak season (November to April).
Accommodations
While accommodations within the valley are limited, nearby options provide comfort and convenience:
- Hotel San Francisco Lodge & Spa (Los Andes): Luxury retreat with vineyard views
- Hotel Termas de Jahuel (Santa María): Hot springs and wine spa treatments
- Casa San Regis (San Felipe): Charming boutique hotel in a colonial building
Dining
The Aconcagua Valley’s culinary scene complements its wines beautifully:
- Viña Errázuriz Restaurant: Fine dining with panoramic vineyard views
- La Ruca (Los Andes): Traditional Chilean cuisine using local ingredients
- El Huaso Enrique (San Felipe): Authentic Chilean barbecue and homestyle dishes
For a unique experience, try a wine pairing lunch at one of the wineries, showcasing local flavors and vintages.
Wine Shops & Bars
While the Aconcagua Valley is known for its wineries, you can also find excellent wine shops and bars in the area:
- Vinoteca San Felipe: Offers a wide selection of local wines
- Bar de Vinos (Los Andes): Cozy wine bar featuring Aconcagua Valley vintages
- La Cava del Valle: Wine shop with tasting room and knowledgeable staff
Many local restaurants also feature extensive wine lists showcasing regional favorites.
Other Shops
Beyond wine, the Aconcagua Valley offers unique shopping experiences:
- Mercado Municipal de San Felipe: Fresh produce and local crafts
- Feria Artesanal de Los Andes: Handmade souvenirs and traditional Chilean goods
- Tienda de Productos Locales: Gourmet food products from the region
Attractions
The Aconcagua Valley isn’t just about wine. Explore these attractions:
- Aconcagua Provincial Park: Home to the highest peak in the Americas
- Santuario de Santa Teresa de Los Andes: Important religious site
- La Campana National Park: Hiking trails and diverse flora
Many wineries also offer additional activities like horseback riding or cooking classes.
Events
Plan your visit around these wine-related events:
- Fiesta de la Vendimia (March): Harvest festival with wine tastings and local cuisine
- Aconcagua Valley Wine Route Festival (November): Showcases the region’s best wines
- San Felipe Jazz & Wine Festival (February): Combines music and wine tasting
Appellations
The Aconcagua Valley is a single appellation within Chile’s wine classification system. Key characteristics include:
- Mediterranean climate with cool ocean breezes
- Alluvial soils rich in minerals
- Elevation ranging from sea level to 3,000 feet
This unique terroir contributes to the distinctive qualities of Aconcagua Valley wines, particularly its bold red varieties.
Grape Varieties
The Aconcagua Valley is renowned for its diverse grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah thrive in the warm climate.
Other popular varieties include:
- Carménère
- Merlot
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
Main Wine Styles
The region produces full-bodied red wines with rich flavors and smooth tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah blends are particularly notable.
White wines, especially Chardonnay, offer tropical fruit notes and balanced acidity.
Food Specialties
Aconcagua Valley’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Local specialties include:
- Pastel de choclo: A corn and meat pie
- Empanadas de pino: Savory pastries filled with beef, onions, and spices
- Charquicán: A hearty beef and vegetable stew
Drives & Walks
Explore the valley’s scenic beauty through these routes:
- Ruta del Vino: A wine route connecting various wineries
- Parque Andino Juncal: Offers hiking trails with stunning mountain views
- San Esteban to Los Andes: A picturesque drive through vineyards
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Tour
Day 1: Visit Viña Errázuriz and Viña San Esteban. Enjoy lunch at Errázuriz’s restaurant.
Day 2: Explore Viña Seña and Viña Von Siebenthal. End with dinner in Los Andes.
Day 3: Tour Viña Aconcagua Alto. Hike in Parque Andino Juncal in the afternoon.
Getting There & Around
The Aconcagua Valley is easily accessible from Santiago, Chile’s capital. Here are the best ways to reach and explore the region:
- By car: Drive north from Santiago on Route 5, then take Route 57 east (about 1.5 hours)
- By bus: Regular services run from Santiago to Los Andes, the valley’s main town
- Guided tours: Many operators offer day trips or multi-day wine tours from Santiago
Renting a car is recommended for flexibility in visiting wineries and exploring the valley.
Best Time to Visit
The Aconcagua Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, certain seasons offer unique experiences:
- September to November (Spring): Mild temperatures and blooming vineyards
- December to February (Summer): Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities
- March to May (Autumn): Harvest season, with many wine-related events
Winter (June to August) can be chilly but offers quieter winery visits and potential ski trips to nearby resorts.
Sustainability Efforts
Many wineries in the Aconcagua Valley are embracing sustainable practices:
- Viña Errázuriz: Implements water-saving irrigation systems and uses solar energy
- Viña Seña: Practices organic and biodynamic viticulture
- Viña Von Siebenthal: Focuses on minimal intervention winemaking
Many wineries offer eco-tours showcasing their sustainability initiatives.
Language Tips
While English is spoken in many tourist areas, knowing some basic Spanish can enhance your experience:
- Vino tinto/blanco: Red/white wine
- Bodega: Winery
- Cata de vinos: Wine tasting
- Salud: Cheers
Learning wine-related terms in Spanish can be helpful during tastings and winery tours.
Further Resources
For more information on the Aconcagua Valley and its wines, consult these resources:
- Wines of Chile: Official website with detailed info on Chilean wine regions
- Ruta del Vino Aconcagua: Local wine route association with maps and winery listings
- Sernatur: Chile’s national tourism service, offering travel guides and tips
Consider downloading wine apps like Vivino or CellarTracker to track and rate the wines you taste during your visit.
