Traveling south from Santiago, journey into the countryside covered in patchwork fields, red-tiled roofs, swaying Alamos, babbling rivers, and the jagged peaks of the Andes Mountains. The destination is the Cachapoal and Colchagua wine valleys, renowned for their “big” red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chile’s flagship Carmenere. Nestled in the foothills of the Andes where cool breezes flow and ample valley views abound, visit a winery conceived with the sole objective of making a grand cru from Chile. No detail has been spared in this exquisite project. The result is concentrated wines with great structure, soft tannins, bright aromas, and a tremendous balance. Get to know the soul of this wine by visiting its birthplace—the vineyards and winery--followed by a tasting of the outstanding 2003 vintage.
Continue south to the horseshoe-shaped Apalta, a micro valley in Colchagua. Here, drop in on friends at one of Colchagua’s newest and most prestigious garage wineries. With only five bottled vintages, they produce one single Cabernet-Carmenere blend from 115 year-old rootstock. Walk amid the craggy vines and admire the restored colonial cellar. Finish with a private tasting of the exquisite 2005 harvest with remarkable finesse.
Break for an al fresco lunch in a traditional winery. Served in their chirpy hacienda garden during warm weather (or cozy barrel cellar in winter), savor their silky, luscious red wines and simple gourmet dishes.
The last winery of the day is perhaps Chile’s most chic, innovating, and highly acclaimed. Belonging to the Gran Marnier family, this extraordinary wine, named 2008 Wine of Year from Wine Spectator, is a reflection of its opulent setting buried deep in an Apalta hillside. See the shiny installations followed by a tasting in their gorgeous barrel cellar.
Drive ten minutes to the colonial town of Santa Cruz, the epicenter of the valley. You will be welcomed into the private home of friends whose passion is making homemade liquors, a centuries-old tradition. Infused with local herbs, fruits, and dried spices, in their charming country home, learn about this fascinating art and delight in the fruits of their labor.
Return to Santiago in the early evening.
Includes:
• Round-trip first-class transportation to/from your hotel in Santiago with professional driver
• English-speaking wine-specialized host
• All private winery visits, premium tastings, entrances, and activities as per itinerary
