This old viticultural area gives its name to the huge wine-growing region of Aconcagua and prospers thanks to its production of high quality wines.
Flanked by the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, Aconcagua Valley is located 50 miles (80 kilometres) north of the country capital, Santiago. Its name come from the river weaving inside the valley and the mountain peaking at 6959 meters. This land between mountain and ocean is home to one the smallest wine-growing regions of Chile with only 2000 acres of vineyards (800 hectares).
The region enjoys optimal conditions for growing vines: the stable climate is warm and dry, the risk of frost is negligible. The pure water from the Andes irrigates the vineyards on the slopes and in the valley. The grapes can contain a good acidity thanks to the cool winds from the ocean and from the neighbouring snowy peaks. The sunny warm summers give the fruit an ideal period to reach its maturity.
Aconcagua Valley consists of two distinctive wine-growing areas.
- Surrounding the city of Panquehue the more numerous vineyards are the oldest. It is the hottest and driest Chilean wine area which traditionally produces alcoholic red wines with ripe fruit flavors and strong tannins. Panquehue is the home of the famous producer Errazuriz.
- The second area is more recent with vineyards planted during the 1990's. This zone spreads towards the Pacific Ocean and the mountains' slopes with sites more sheltered from the scorching sun. The vineyards produce wines less strong in alcohol with fresh and complex notes.
The red wines of Aconcagua Valley are overall tannic, highly alcoholic, and rich in ripe fruit flavors. Only recently are the producers trying to make more fresh and complex wines with planting on cooler sites.
Grape varieties in Aconcagua
The varieties used traditionally are Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, a grape imported from Bordeaux in the middle of the nineteenth century. It is the signature grape of Chile. In Aconcagua Valley, Carménère produces a fruity wine with accent of black fruits and spices, integrated strong tannins and complex notes. It blends well with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The last two gives Chilean wine its smooth tannins and beautiful colour.
Since the 1990's, Cabernet Sauvignon is losing its importance to the advantage of Syrah.
Best producers in Aconcagua
Errazuriz is the great wine estate in Aconcagua Valley which enjoys acclaims from all over the world.
