Attention all travelers! If you’re planning a trip to Chile, get ready, because this week’s adventure is all about wine. And not just any wine—this is Chilean wine, straight from one of the finest regions in the world. Buckle up because we’re diving headfirst into the Maipo Valley. This is a place that is known worldwide as the Bordeaux of South America.
First things first: do you prefer red or white wine? Doesn’t matter, because here in Chile, they’ve got it all. From century-old wineries to those with names you can barely pronounce, we’re about to explore it all. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and let’s head to wine country!
The Journey to Maipo Valley
After landing in Santiago, we knew one of our first stops had to be the Maipo Valley. Why? Because this region is home to some of the best wine in the world, and when you’re in Chile, wine country is a must. From Bordeaux to Napa, we’ve seen the greats, but we couldn’t wait to see how Maipo stacked up. Spoiler alert: It did not disappoint.
Our wine-filled day began with a 45-minute drive through the stunning Chilean countryside. Rolling vineyards, snow-capped Andes in the distance, and that crisp South American air—what more could you ask for? First stop, Campo La Quirinca.
Campo La Quirinca: The Heart of Tradition
Campo La Quirinca is a family-run farm and winery that’s been perfecting its craft for generations. Complete with alpacas, horses, and chickens, this place is more than just a vineyard—it’s a living, breathing farm that gives you a real sense of Chilean culture. So the first thing you do, of course, is tour the farm and feed the animals. It was a great way to start the day with the true understanding of the area. Then, they take you on a journey through the winemaking process, teaching you the old-school methods of corking bottles, showing off antique equipment, and of course, ending with a fantastic wine tasting.
This small-scale operation is so hands-on that every bottle is corked and labeled by hand. There’s something deeply special about that, and the passion for their craft shines through every step of the way. It’s a great place to kick off your Maipo Valley tour because it gives you that authentic, mom-and-pop feel.
Santa Emma Winery: Slick and Sophisticated
Next up: Santa Ema Winery. This one was a bit of a contrast to Campo La Quirinca. Bigger, more modern, and much more commercial, Santa Ema knows what it’s doing, and they’re doing it well. When you first arrive, you see the vast vineyards and know this is a different operation. This is where you start to see the sleek side of Chilean wine production, and the wines here are nothing short of excellent. We sampled a range of reds, from Cabernet Sauvignon to Carménère, and each glass was better than the last.
The tasting room, nestled in the shadow of the Andes, made for a perfect backdrop as we raised our glasses. It’s easy to see why this is one of the premier wineries in the Maipo Valley. If you’re planning your own tour, don’t skip Santa Ema—it’s one for the books.
Zinfandel & Pisco: A Wine Lover’s Lunch
By the time we rolled into Zinfandel, our lunchtime stop, we were all feeling pretty good—thanks in part to the many glasses of wine and a few Pisco Sours along the way. If you’re unfamiliar, Pisco is a South American grape spirit, and you absolutely need to try it when you’re in Chile. One Pisco Sour, and you’ll see why it’s a national favorite.
Lunch was fantastic, filled with local flavors and, of course, more wine. But the star of this meal? Definitely the Pisco Sours.
Undurraga: A Giant in Chilean Wine
Our final stop of the day was Undurraga, one of Chile’s most famous wineries. If you’re a wine lover, this place is already on your radar, and for good reason. Walking through its vast vineyards and impressive facilities, you get the sense that Undurraga is on a whole different level. From the tanks to the barrels, every inch of this winery screams experience and expertise. They spend about 30-45 minutes taking you through the massive operation. If you’re into wine, it’s a fun learning experience.
We toured their 140-year-old cellar, tasted some of their finest reds, and got a glimpse into why Undurraga has become a household name in the world of wine. By the end of the day, we were convinced: Chilean wine belongs on any serious wine lover’s bucket list.
Why You Need to Visit Maipo Valley
A day in the Maipo Valley isn’t just about tasting world-class wine. It’s about experiencing the passion behind each bottle, seeing the stunning landscapes where these grapes are grown, and appreciating the art of winemaking in one of the world’s most beautiful regions. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or someone who just enjoys a good glass of red, the Maipo Valley will leave you in awe.
If you’re heading to Chile, this is the experience you won’t want to miss. Six hours, three wineries, countless glasses of wine, and a deeper appreciation for the people and places that make Chilean wine so special. Cheers to that!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Chile, do yourself a favor: set aside a day for the Maipo Valley wine tour. You’ll come back with stories, experiences, and—if you’re lucky—a bottle or two of wine to remember it by.
Don’t worry, we know there’s a lot of other fantastic wineries from this and nearby regions. If you like South American wines, like we do, check out these other wineries below. Or just try them at home.
Concha y Toro (Maipo Valley)
This is one of the largest and most famous wineries in Chile. Concha y Toro offers immersive tours, gorgeous vineyards, and a deep dive into Chilean wine history. The Casillero del Diablo (Devil’s Cellar) tour is particularly popular. Book in advance, as this winery is often a top choice for visitors near Santiago.
Santa Rita (Maipo Valley)
This winery has a deep historical significance and diverse wine portfolio, including the 120 series. Santa Rita combines a rich history, including its role in Chile’s independence movement, with a wide selection of excellent wines. Their stunning colonial estate and on-site restaurant make for a perfect day trip. Try their Carménère. It’s one of the best in Chile.
Viu Manent (Colchagua Valley)
Located in the heart of the Colchagua Valley, Viu Manent is known for its charming horse-drawn carriage tours and breathtaking views. Their Malbec is particularly praised, and the winery offers a picturesque, laid-back atmosphere. The winery’s restaurant is amazing. Combine your visit with a meal there and you won’t be sorry.
Lapostolle (Colchagua Valley)
Lapostolle is an architectural marvel, built into the hills of Apalta Valley. The winery focuses on organic and biodynamic practices, and its iconic Clos Apalta red blend has won numerous awards worldwide.
Until next time, salud! And don’t forget to like, share, and comment—what wineries did we miss?
