An essential part of life in Chile, wine and vineyards surround us here in Santiago!
Wine is, fortunately, a huge part of Chilean culture. And as of late, Chile is really making a name for itself around the world, famous for its fine, flavorful wines.
Another fortunate, is that Santiago happens to be right in the middle of the country´s most productive wine region, with all kinds of wineries nearby to tour. By far the most famous and popular, Concha y Toro is a great tour that I highly recommend. However, if you´re looking for something a little more quaint and rustic, I suggest you head to Viña Undurraga.
With more than 120 years of winemaking, Undurraga is known for cultivating the finest of grapes and has four separate estates, one, a beautiful vineyard in the heart of the Maipo Valley, just 34 km from Santiago. The Santa Ana Estate is simple, far from Concha y Toro´s grandiose, yet elegant as well.
Practicing "Precision Viticulture," Undurraga understands vineyard variability and considers all factors when examining their lands, optimizing their performance. And all you have to do is taste it to know that´s true. They also make a variety of sparkling wines, of which I am particularly found.
Their tour is fairly standard, except for after the tastings at the end, the guide just leaves, and anything that´s left is up for grabs. So, the three tastings can turn into a full glass or two of wine, which is very unique and much appreciated.
Undurraga is just one of more than 100 vineyards throughout the country. Grape vine roots run deep into Chile´s soul, making them an essential part of who Chile is, a part of every single Chilean´s life. It is as our very own Pablo Neruda said in his Ode to Wine:
"Wine
stirs the spring,
happiness
bursts through the earth like a plant,
walls crumble,
and rocky cliffs,
chasms close,
as song is born."
If you´re looking to check out Viña Undurraga, ride the metro to Estación Central, hop on a bus going to Talagante for $950 CLP and they´ll drop you off directly in front of the vineyard. The 45-minute tour costs $8,000 CLP and includes 3 fine tastings, a free wine glass and a small bottle of wine. Check their site for hours and reservations.
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