Colchagua Valley is one of several big wine-producing valleys in Chile, and the closest thing to being its Napa Valley. But it is still a rustic place, with wineries tucked down dirt roads. Some have invested heavily in recent years to develop a tourist circuit called the Ruta del Vino. Many have high-end tasting rooms, and a couple offer gourmet restaurants. An easy two-hour drive south of Santiago, the valley offers an accessible taste of South American wine and countryside.
Where to stay
Viña Casa Silva Hijuela Norte
Casilla 97, San Fernando
011-56-72-716-519
An elegantly restored country house with large rooms set around a quiet courtyard. The hotel has a small pool and gourmet restaurant. Wine tours and tastings available at the neighboring vineyard. Double $180 per night.
Hotel Santa Cruz Plaza
Plaza de Armas 286, Santa Cruz
011-56-72-821-010
www.hotelsantacruzplaza.cl
An upscale tourist hotel set at the edge of a quiet plaza in the center of Santa Cruz. Guided winery tours can be arranged through the hotel. Double $195 a night.
Where to eat
Viña Casa Silva
(See above)
Gourmet restaurant situated above one of the vineyard's historic barrel rooms serves Chilean and international dishes. Appetizers $5.50-$10, entrees $10-$11.
Viña Viu Manent Carretera del Viño Km. 37, Cunaco
011-56-72-858-751
winery@viumanent.cl
www.viumanent.cl
An elegant country restaurant with seating indoors and out on the grounds of another historic winery. Gourmet Chilean dishes. Dinner for one, appetizer to dessert, $25.
What to do
Colchagua Valley Wine Route Plaza de Armas 298, Santa Cruz
011-56-72-823-199
info@rutadelvino.cl
www.rutadelvino.cl
An organization of Colchagua Valley wineries offering full- and half-day tours of area vineyards. The website offers extensive information on wineries and area history and geography.
What to taste
Chilean wines are common on market shelves in and around Boston. To find stores and restaurants carrying a few of note from smaller vineyards, visit www.bestvalleywines.com, the website of Best Valley Wines, a local importer.
