Chile’s move toward cool-climate viticulture began 25 years ago when innovative winemakers dared to plant in the coastal Casablanca and San Antonio regions. These valleys are really putting Chile on the map as a formidable producer of excellent Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and cool-climate Syrah. With time and experience under their belts, growers have identified the ideal locations for each variety in these valleys that are anything but homogenous.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel at 9:00 a.m. to head for the renowned Casablanca & San Antonio Valleys. Chile’s move toward cool-climate viticulture began 25 years ago when innovative winemakers dared to suggest planting in the pre-coastal Casablanca and nearly seaside San Antonio regions. The valleys are now world-famous for their technology and commitment to terroir, producing some of Chile’s best white wines and cool-climate reds.
Our first stop will take us to Loma Larga Vineyards. Named “Winery of the Year 2011” by Wine & Spirits magazine, Loma Larga continues to represent the best of the Casablanca Valley. Loma Larga sets the bar for quality cold-climate red wines with several award winners and consistent 90+ point ratings by such prestigious publications as Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.
photo credit: Loma Larga Vineyards
Just a short drive away is Kingston Family Vineyards. Since its first vintage in 2003, Kingston has been turning heads with its small production Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. While coastal Casablanca is known for its white wines, Kingston is pioneering the production of cool-climate, artisan-style reds. Wines from the 300-acre family ranch are handcrafted and bottled on site. Wine Spectator commended Kingston for “bringing diversity and excitement to Chile” and Wine Enthusiast heralded the vineyard as the “Sommeliers’ New Chilean Favorite.” After our tour and tasting, we will head to the nearby Macerado restaurant for a wine pairing lunch with Kingston’s winemaker.
Driving south into the San Antonio Valley, we will visit Casa Marín Winery. Founded in 2000 by Chile’s first vineyard owner, Maria Luz Marín, Casa Marín has been described as one of the “most daring and innovative” vineyards in the country. Casa Marín’s outstanding wines have received many awards including Best Sauvignon Blanc in the world at the Bordeaux Sauvignon Blanc World Concourse in 2010. Casa Marín was selected Winery of the Year by industry association Wines of Chile in 2010. It is also Chile’s closest vineyard to the coast, situated just 2.5 miles (4km) from the Pacific shoreline. Here we will enjoy a tour of the bodega and through the vineyard followed by a tasting of Casa Marín’s distinctive wines.
Meals Included: Lunch
This tour is available every day, all year round.
Price per Person (US$): $347.00
*based on a minimum of 2 travelers
photo credit: Kingston Family Vineyards
Price Includes:
- Private transportation in comfortable vehicle with professional driver
- Professional, bilingual guide
- Three (3) winery tours & tastings
- Lunch with winemaker
- Map of Chilean wine regions
- Bottled mineral water
Price Does Not Include:
- Optional gratuities for guides and drivers
- Meals not listed in itinerary
- Items of personal nature
- Travel insurance
- Overnight lodging
photo credit: Erin Jelm