California is one of the most famous regions for producing quality wine, but when it comes to South America there are also plenty to try. Argentina and Chile are known for producing quality wines, whether that’s expensive or boutique choices or reasonably priced bottles. Similarly, don’t limit yourself to trying them in the city, but get on a tour and enjoy wine tasting at some exquisite vineyards.
You can start your tour in either Santiago in Chile or Buenos Aires in Argentina. There are a number of set tours that are available that cover the main places to go or you can create your own.
Both Chile and Argentina are well recognized as producers of outstanding wine. Like California, you can find some fantastic selections that are really reasonably priced on up to more boutique and expensive choices. You can start your tour in either Santiago in Chile or Buenos Aires in Argentina. There are a number of set tours that are available that cover the main places to go or you can create your own.
Going on a set tour will allow you to relax and let someone else do the planning for you. You also may have the advantage of special treatment that you couldn’t get on your own. On the other hand, doing it yourself will allow you to make changes at the last minute if you decide you want more time in Santiago or Buenos Aires, for example.
It is most likely that you will arrive in Santiago if you are starting in Chile. You can spend a day here, enjoying the city and trying some fine wine with your dinner at one of the many top restaurants. The next day, head to Casablanca Valley where there are many different types of wineries to visit, some that specialize in Pinot Noirs, others in white wines and even some organic vineyards. Another spot to see is Valparaiso, a place noted for being the home of a great poet – Pablo Neruda.
After this, you can move on to the Maipo Valley, called the “cradle of Chilean winemaking. Many of Chile’s traditional wineries are located here, as well as some new boutique and organic vineyards. The Cachapoal Valley is next on your list, followed by the Colchagua Valley. Touring all of these properly will probably take about three days.
The Colchagua Valley is the largest of the Chilean wine producing regions and has the most tours available. This region is best known for the Cabernet Sauvignons, Carmeneres, Malbecs and Syrahs it offers. Once this is done, you will spend a night in Santa Cruz before flying to Mendoza, Argentina from the Chilean capital Santiago.
Mendoza is the perfect base for visiting the many surrounding vineyards in this main region for Argentinean wine production. Here you can find some of the best Malbecs in South America. One region, Lujan de Cuyu, is located to the south of Mendoza. One can spend a day visiting this region, returning to Mendoza to overnight. The following day, head to Valle de Uco which is a wine region located at high altitude.
Finish off your two week tour by heading to Buenos Aires. This is a fascinating city where you will want to spend at least two or three days enjoying the fine food, wines and culture. While being here it would be a huge shame if you didn’t enjoy a tango show.