Aconcagua Valley Wine Region

Aconcagua Valley wine region is one of Chile's main wine regions. The Aconcagua wine region stretches from the Valparaíso Valley all the way to the Pacific Ocean, covering a length of approximately 100km. The name Aconcagua comes from the mountain of the same name, which is situated in Argentina. At 6,956 meters, it is the tallest peak in the Americas. The peak of Aconcagua is covered with snow all year round, and the water running down from the glaciers delivers water for irrigation in the vineyards below. Aconcagua Valley is a wine region with a lot to offer for wine lovers. You will enjoy walking around and seeing the land, culture, food, and of course the wine!

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Aconcagua Valley Wine Region

Where is the Aconcagua Valley Wine Region

The Aconcagua Valley wine region is located 100km north of the capital city Santiago, in Chile.

History of Aconcagua Valley Wine

Chile is recognized as a warmer, drier valley that was thought to not be hospitable for wine growing. This myth was broken when Don Maximiano Errazuriz, the wine pioneer planted the first vine cuttings here. In the Aconcagua Valley, these varieties seemed to do well: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot. Most vineyards in this valley are located at heights between 50 and 1000 meters. Currently, this region is identified as a DO wine region that is defined by the wine appellation system of Chile.

Terrior of Aconcagua Valley

The grape vines in the Aconcagua wine region are mainly exposed to warm, dry conditions and high daytime temperatures. However, low evening temperatures and regular rainfall reduce the chance of this happening. The soil of the Aconcagua wine region is mainly made up of sand. This type is also common in other sub-regions. The sandy soil has one advantage, it creates a phylloxera-free environment, where grapes and vines can grow very healthy.

Aconcagua Valley Wine Characteristics 

The main grape varieties of the Aconcagua region are: red- Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Merlot. white- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc. Red wine from the Aconcagua region in Chile, particularly Bordeaux blends, are very popular for Chilean wine drinkers. Merlot and Syrah are refreshing full-bodied reds that offer a distinctive cherry tone as well as raspberry or strawberry notes. Cabernet Sauvignon from the Aconcagua region is a light, fruity wine with refreshing taste. You can't go wrong with this wine if you're looking for tea aromas paired with smoky aftertaste. The coastal wines of the Aconcagua area form an aromatic intensity with Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. White wines from the Aconcagua region are lesser known, but their Sauvignon Blanc offers a light green colour and is characterised by a citrusy aroma. Hints of herbs and passion fruit will be noticeable on the nose.

Food to pair with Aconcagua Valley Wine

1. Valdiviano

One of the most famous Chilean dishes is Valdiviano, a traditional soup. There are many versions of it across the country, but it usually consists of thin strips of beef jerky, onions, and various spices. This fallacy is believed to have originated in 1598 when the Spanish conquistadors suffered a significant defeat by the Mapuche people and had to withdraw to the secluded city of Valdivia. Cut off from their main food supply, they relied heavily on beef jerky which they used to invent many recipes, including this well-loved soup. It pairs well with wines from the Aconcagua Valley.

2. Chancho en piedra

Chancho en Piedra is a Chilean salsa that's essentially a variation of pebre salsa with added tomatoes. Apart from the tomatoes, it contains garlic, chili peppers, onions, olive oil, salt and pepper, and either parsley or coriander. Once prepared, the consistency of chancho en piedra should be more sauce-like than that of pebre. It is recommended to serve it with bread, sopapillas or empanadas. The name chancho en piedra means "pig on a stone" referring to the preparation of this salsa in a stone mortar and pestle. Pairs excellent with wines from the Aconcagua Valley.

3. Empanadas de manzana

Empanadas are traditionally savory, but this particular dish takes it one step further with a sweet apple filling. Slice apples, spoon butter into dough, form in creases and bake until golden and crispy. Apple Empanadas are a beloved dessert or light breakfast in the Chiloé Islands, and occasionally make it into Mexican cuisine. Pairs well with wines from the Aconcagua Valley.

Places to visit near Aconcagua Valley

1. Cerro San Cristobal

Santiago's 860 meter high Cerro San Cristobal is a popular outing spot with activities for all ages. The top offers panoramic views of the city, and halfway up there's a wine museum and a zoo. It's topped by the Virgin Mary statue in its namesake church.

2. Casa Museo La Chascona

Explore the romantic, yet eclectic architecture of this historic home. Michelangelo Antonioni used this location as part of the setting for his 1995 film "Il Postino" where it was used to portray a hideaway from the outside world for famed poet Pablo Neruda and his wife Matilde.

3. Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino

The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is a must-see in Santiago. One of the top museums in South America, this location houses an impressive collection of Central and South American artifacts that underscores the diversity and creative artistry of pre-Columbian civilizations.

Frequently asked questions about Aconcagua Valley Wine Region