Chilean Wine Valleys

Maule Valley: the Maule Valley is the most extensive winemaking region in Chile with the greater part of its vineyards in the valley and on the slopes of the coastal mountains. Many white varieties, predominantly sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, and many red varieties, mainly merlot, Cabernet sauvignon and recently Carmenere, are produced here.

Itata Valley: much of the vine planting is located on the eastern slopes of the coastal mountains amongst pine forests. The climate is similar to the Maule Valley but tends to be more humid. Soils are predominantly reddish-brown volcanic sand, suitable for red and white varieties.

Bio Bio Valley: this cool climate region is attracting much attention for its suitability, especially for such varieties as sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Viognier, gewürztraminer, and more recently, Pinot noir. Situated at about 600 km south of Santiago, Bío Bío is on the very southerly edge of viable grape growing, but the cooler temperatures and lengthy ripening periods give great acidity and freshness to the wines.

Limarí Valley: with its semi-arid climate and high summer temperatures, Limarí is something of an oasis. Its topography allows sea breezes to enter the transversal valley during the day, and a fog, known locally as 'camanchaca' cools the air at around dawn. Mostly Chardonnay and syrah are produced in this valley.

Aconcagua Valley: this northern hot and generally arid region is best suited for red wine production. Some quality Cabernet sauvignon is the local speciality.

Casablanca Valley: one of the new quality regions in Chile, Casablanca is a relatively cool and largely coastal region producing classy Chardonnay and top-notch sauvignon Blanc. Pinot noir was planted in an attempt to exploit its cool climate conditions with one of the most amazing grape varieties appreciated amongst knowledgeable wine consumers. Some of Chile's top wines come from this small region.

Maipo Valley: the Maipo region, just south of Santiago, is one of Chile's best-known and longest established quality wine regions. Some of the biggest names of the Chilean wine production come from this valley. Cabernet sauvignon is the mainstay of the region and the quality is high.

Cachapoal Valley: recognized as an excellent zone for Cabernet sauvignon and merlot toward the warmer west, the eminence of the Carmenere is outstanding. The region has a particularly good reputation for full-bodied wines.

Millahue Valley: the significance of the word millahue is “Place of gold” and not in vain. The red wines that come from this area are full-bodied thanks to constant temperatures and abundant sunlight during the day and cool nights. The terrain is diverse in this area and it produces a variety of high quality red grapes, among which Carmenere and Cabernet sauvignon are perfectly suited for blending.