In the late nineteenth century, during the era of immense mining wealth in Chile, important families introduced fine wine varieties of French origin – primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Syrah, and Malbec – to this region of the long, thin country. Since then, and especially during the mid-1990s during Chile’s rebirth as a quality wine producer, the Colchagua Valley has developed into one of the most important wine regions in South America.
Wine tasting in Colchagua
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel this morning, and you will set off two hours south on the Pan-American Highway, through the marvelous agricultural heart of the Central Valley, before arriving to the eastern end of the Colchagua Valley. In the late nineteenth century, during the era of immense mining wealth in Chile, important families introduced fine wine varieties of French origin – primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Merlot and Malbec – to the long, thin country. Since then, and especially during the mid-1990s during Chile’s rebirth as a quality wine producer, this area has developed into one of the most important wine regions in South America.
Your first visit is to Neyen Winery. Founded on the site of one of the region’s pioneering wineries dating back to the 19th century, Neyen is today the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Its Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted in 1890 have deep roots and now produce excellent fruit. Renowned enologists Patrick Valette and Eduardo Silva serve as consultants; employing art, precision, and passion achieve the maximum expression of the vines, varieties, and unique terroir.
Next, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at the family-run Viu Manent Winery. Founded in 1935, Viu Manent’s core philosophy is centered in attention to detail, respect for the environment, and honoring history and tradition while embracing innovation and modernity to support continued excellence.
A short drive away is the famed Apalta sub-region and our next stop, Casa Lapostolle Winery, established in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle (of the Grand Marnier family), which produces some of the best QPR (quality/price ratio) wines in Chile. Since its outstanding debut 1997 vintage, Casa Lapostolle’s Clos Apalta bottling has helped to establish Colchagua as a premier red-wine producer.
Meals Included: Lunch
Recommended trip combinations:
Wine Cellar at Neyen Winery
This tour is available every day, all year round.
Price per Person (US$): $362.00
*based on a minimum of 2 travelers
*Prices valid through August 31st, 2015.
Viu Manent winery
Price Includes:
