Aconcagua Wine (28)

Viticulture in Aconcagua between the Andes and the Pacific

East of the wine region lies Cerro Aconcagua, the highest mountain of the American double continent at 6961 meters. The Aconcagua wine region stretches between its foothills and the Pacific coast. This is where Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs, Merlots, and Cabernet Sauvignons come from, which enjoy increasing popularity in Germany due to their high quality.

Wine Region Aconcagua: Climate diversity ensures a multifaceted offering

The Aconcagua wine region is located about 80 kilometers north of the capital city Santiago de Chile. It is divided into the subregions Aconcagua Valley, Casablanca Valley, San Antonio, and Leyda. The Aconcagua Valley is the furthest inland and is traversed by the Aconcagua River. Here, a hot dry climate prevails, and the spectrum of soils ranges from sandy to rocky.

The annual rainfall of only 215 millimeters would not be sufficient for viticulture alone. Therefore, the winemakers use the meltwater from the river for irrigation, near which many vineyards are located. The Aconcagua Valley is famous for its exquisite red wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère. 

The other three subregions are located closer to the Pacific coast and are characterized by a distinctly cooler climate influenced by the Humboldt Current. The annual rainfall, at 540 millimeters, is much higher than further inland, and the terroir is also significantly different. It is noticeably heavier and clay-rich here. The growing conditions near the coast particularly benefit the requirements of red Pinot Noir and the white varieties Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. 

Due to the lower temperatures, the grape berries have enough time throughout the year to ripen and develop their aroma. However, the temperatures also pose challenges for winemakers in Casablanca Valley, San Antonio, and Leyda. It is not uncommon for vines to be lost due to severe frost.

Wineries in Aconcagua

The first winery in the Aconcagua wine region was founded in 1870 by Don Maximiano Errázuriz. It is still in operation today under the name Viña Errazuriz S.A. and produces excellent wines from French grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère. The name is closely linked to the premium segment of Chilean wine production. At VINELLO, for instance, Viña Errazuriz S.A is represented with the exquisite dry red wine Kai Carmenére.

That it is also possible to gain a good reputation without a historic name is demonstrated by the winery Viñedos Veramonte, founded in 1990 in the Casablanca Valley. Here, excellent white wines such as Veramonte Cruz Andina Sauvignon Blanc and Veramonte Chardonnay are produced, as well as full-bodied dry red wines like Veramonte Ritual Pinot Noir. Other well-known wineries in the wine region include:

• Baron Philippe de Rothschild Maipo
• Don Melchor - Concha y Toro
• Miguel Torres Chile
• Terra Noble 

Interesting facts about Aconcagua

How much Aconcagua wine is produced per year?

Approximately 20 million liters of Aconcagua wine are produced annually. This volume corresponds to about 15% of Chile's annual wine production. 

How large is the vineyard area in the Aconcagua wine region?

The vineyard area is approximately 3,500 hectares, which is roughly comparable to the Hessian wine-growing region of Rheingau (about 3,200 ha). The largest share falls on the Casablanca Valley. The remaining vineyard area is distributed among the subregions of San Antonio, Aconcagua Valley, and Leyda. 

What red grape varieties are grown in the Aconcagua wine region?

The main red grape varieties are Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère. Additionally, País, Pinot Noir, as well as Merlot and Syrah (Shiraz) are also cultivated.

What white grape varieties are grown in the Aconcagua wine region?

Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are the main white varieties in Aconcagua. Furthermore, Riesling is also cultivated on the region's vineyards.

Discover Aconcagua wines online at VINELLO

Enjoy top wines from Aconcagua at affordable prices from our online shop. At VINELLO, you will find a representative selection of winemakers and wineries from Aconcagua. You can shop safely with us and look forward to a quick delivery of your order. Additionally, we offer a variety of payment options from which you can choose your preferred method.

Another advantage at VINELLO: Our sommeliers are available by phone for detailed advice to introduce you to the world of Aconcagua wines. This way, you can find your favorites more easily and quickly, whether for a special occasion, an evening with friends, or for your own private enjoyment.