Casablanca Valley

The region is located northwest of Santiago, specifically 75 km northwest or approximately 100 km, which is about 60 miles from the capital. It is considered the most important subregion in the Aconcagua Valley and spreads across 19 miles, or 30 kilometres. One of the few Chilean regions with a west-to-east orientation toward the sea, it opens directly to the Pacific. The vineyards are situated at elevations between 200 and 400 meters above sea level.

This is a cool-climate region with strong Pacific influence. Summer temperatures average around 77 °F, and daytime temperatures rarely exceed 28°C. The area is characterized by morning fog or mist along with cool sea breezes. This environment is heavily influenced by the Humboldt Current, which is a cold ocean current originating in Antarctica. Annual precipitation is moderate at approximately 400 to 500 mm and is concentrated in winter months. Water shortages are a major issue because snowmelt from the Andes is unavailable this far west, and water restrictions have previously halted the expansion of vines. Soils range from clay-rich and nutrient-dense in lower areas to sandy, well-drained soils at higher elevations. Some vineyards contain calcareous components. Sandy clay soils have presented challenges due to nematodes, which are microscopic worms that feed on vine roots, requiring producers to graft vines onto resistant rootstocks.

The flagship varieties of the region include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The valley is known for fresh, mineral white wines and elegant, cool-climate Pinot Noirs that achieve a Burgundian character.

Aromatic whites such as Viognier, Gewurztraminer, and Riesling are spreading in cooler sites. Reds including Merlot, Syrah, and Carménère are grown with some success in warmer and more elevated vineyards, while Syrah and Merlot are also listed as main varieties.

Key estates include Viña Casablanca, which is known for Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, and Bodegas RE, which utilizes traditional methods and unique blends. Other notable producers are Viña Indómita, a hilltop winery, as well as De Martino and Casa Lapostolle. Concha Y Toro was the first company to produce high-quality whites in the region, while Santa Rita also sources fruit from the valley. Additionally, Cono Sur is well known for Pinot Noir that is similar to Burgundy wines.

When selecting a bottle, consumers can choose between the mineral white styles and the elegant cool-climate reds produced in the region.