The Great Wave

Valle Central

The expansive, warm flatlands of Chile's Valle Central are home to most of the country's vineyards. This long stretch of land from Santiago to Itata Valley is divided into four sub-regions, each with its own climate and reputation. There is Maipo Valley with its minty Cabernet Sauvignon, Rapel Valley with its spicy Carménère and the Curicó and Maule Valleys, famous for concentrated Carignan made from old vines. Throughout the valley—which is prized for its rich, volcanic soils—the hot days and cool nights result in ripe, well-balanced grapes. Some of the most common Valle Central wines are fruit-forward reds made from plummy Merlot and pear-flavored whites crafted from Chardonnay.