Coquimbo Wine (8)

Coquimbo: a wine region of contrasts

The special aspect of the Coquimbo wine region is the prevailing landscape contrast. On one hand, there are the mountain slopes of the Andes and the so-called Cordilleras, covered with cacti, and on the other hand, beautiful green valleys. Such a great landscape difference is very rare anywhere else in the world.

Which wine style predominates in the Coquimbo wine region?

In the past, only table grapes and grapes for the so-called Pisco were grown in the Coquimbo wine region. But that has long since changed. Nowadays, winemakers know that it is possible to cultivate noble grapes for high-quality wine on the steep slopes and rocky soils.

The Andes as well as the Pacific provide cooling and enable the cultivation of different grape varieties. Among others, some red grape varieties such as Syrah and Pinot Noir thrive here. In addition, the white varieties Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are also planted.

Geographical conditions

What is the main climate like?

Summers in Coquimbo are quite short and dry. Conversely, the cold season tends to be very long and cold. Throughout the year, temperatures range between 9 °C and 20 °C, and the average climate value is 8.3. Coquimbo has a desert climate, so it is mostly quite warm during the day. Additionally, the likelihood of rain is very low.

How is the vineyard laid out?

As mentioned earlier, the region is very diverse. It consists of these three subregions:

• Elqui
• Limarí and
• Choapa

All are located about 400 to 500 kilometers from the capital Santiago. Coquimbo is in northern Chile. It is both a wine region and a city. The latter is situated in a valley and about ten kilometers away from the regional capital called La Serena.

Although the Coquimbo wine region is predominantly desert, its mineral-rich poor soils are very well suited for viticulture. In the Coquimbo wine region, different types of wine as well as grape brandy are produced.

Coquimbo Wine from Valle del Elqui

The Valle del Elqui is one of the most important areas for the cultivation of grapes for the popular Chilean Pisco. The latter also forms the basis for the national drink called Pisco Sour. However, many other grapes are also grown in Valle del Elqui, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Carménère, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot.

At an altitude of up to 2,000 meters, the Valle del Elqui and thus also a part of the region around Coquimbo is the northernmost and also the highest wine-growing area in the country. This fact makes the wines from Coquimbo something very special. Many producers boast that their fine drops come from an altitude of 1,300 meters, which is still significantly lower than the location of Coquimbo.

Coquimbo Wine: Present and Future

Wine from the Coquimbo region has also gained a very good reputation internationally over the years and is appreciated worldwide. Meanwhile, some foreign investors have recognized the great potential of the growing area and have invested financially. Most varieties from the region are characterized by first-class quality and a unique aroma. They have a full-bodied taste and convince with fruity notes. Often, a hint of vanilla can also be tasted.

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