The best wines from Aconcagua

The Aconcagua Valley is a significant area in Chile’s wine producing country and lies approximately 100 kilometres (60 miles) north Santiago. Initially perceived as unsuitable for viticulture due to its hot and arid climate, modern-day advancements have defied this notion, showcasing the region's possiblities in cultivating high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

Characterized by a diverse array of grape varieties and wine styles, the Aconcagua Valley boasts a mosaic of microclimates and soil compositions. Mount Aconcagua, its majestic centrepiece, overlooks vineyards influenced by cool Pacific Ocean breezes, which mitigate temperatures in the valley, fostering optimal grape growing conditions.

As a result, the Aconcagua Valley has emerged as the birthplace of some of the world's finest wines, symbolizing a remarkable transformation from its once-dismissed viticultural potential.

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The grapes of wines from Aconcagua

The Aconcagua Valley is characterized by its preference for red grape varieties as they thrive in the valley's hot weather and extended ripening season, where Syrah is the grape that is most noteworthy here. The valley's interior is renowned for its longstanding tradition of cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. In contrast, the valley's coastal zone provides optimal conditions for cooler climate grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir.

The terroir of wines from Aconcagua

In the Aconcagua Valley, vineyard altitudes range from 1100 meters above sea level in the eastern regions to 50 meters in the lower-lying western areas. Cooler air from the Pacific Ocean to the west is drawn in by hot air rising quickly eastward as the afternoon sun warms the dry, warm terrain. When night falls and the land cools, this process is reversed.

The Aconcagua Valley's frequent winds help to reduce the incidence of vine disease and temper the area's typically extreme temperatures. This influence is further reinforced by the Antarctic Humboldt Current, which flows along Chile's west coast and contributes to the valley's favourable climate.

Toward the Andean peaks, the valley's soils are predominantly rocky, presenting a competitive environment for vines. This characteristic is particularly favourable for vigorous grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Surface stones aid in retaining moisture by preventing sunlight from evaporating it—a valuable trait in the region's hot climate.

Classifications of wines from Aconcagua

Recognized as a Denomination of Origin (DO) of Chile, the Aconcagua Valley holds legal status as a geographically defined indication utilized for labelling and quality assessment purposes.
Aconcagua Costa represents the coastal segment of Chile's Aconcagua region and was established as a distinct Denomination of Origin (DO) appellation in 2012. Characterized by a cool climate, this area proves ideal for cultivating white grape varieties and Pinot Noir, although Syrah and Merlot are also cultivated. Wines originating from Aconcagua Costa exhibit freshness, crispness, and notable aromatic intensity. This stands in contrast to the inland areas of the Aconcagua Valley, where higher temperatures prevail, and Carmenère and other Bordeaux varieties take precedence.