Chile’s Colchagua Valley
Home to many boutique wineries, the Colchagua Valley has exceptional soils and many microclimates - it is the most promising region for fine wine in Chile.
Located about 80 south of Santiago, the Colchagua Valley resembles a horseshoe and follows the Tinguiririca River from the Andes Mountain to the Pacific Ocean. 75 miles long and 22 miles wide, this region is a sub region of the Rapel Valley and produces critically acclaimed, world-class red wine for the international market. Colchagua is derived from the Mapuche word, "Colchahuala," which means “place where the sacred Huala bird nests.
The Colchagua Valley has a Mediterranean climate, the long dry summer growing season (November to April) is ideal for grape maturation. During this time, the average temperature fluctuates by as much as 5°C (40°F), with hot days of 35°C (95°F) and crisp nights of 2°C (35°F), influenced by the Pacific maritime breezes and Andean winds. Melting snow from the Andes feeds the Tinguiririca River to help irrigate the valley during dry summer months.
The three primary soil types in the area are: Valley Floor (which comprise, clay loam, silty loam, and volcanic ash), Piedmont (loam and clay loam originating from the Andes and Coastal Mountains), and Hillside (granite from the Coastal Mountains). These varied soil types only serve to increase the diversity and quality of wines produced in the region.
Already recognized on an international scale, Wine Enthusiast named Colchagua Valley 2005 Wine Region of the Year - the first time a South American wine region was granted this title. A relative newcomer to the fine wine category, the quality of wines from this region only continues to improve.
Click on the links below for more information about:
The estate vineyards of Viña Maquis
The terroir of Colchagua Valley, Chile
