Santiago Wine Country: Maipo Valley & Casablanca Vineyards

Santiago is surrounded by Chile's greatest wine regions — the Maipo Valley (Cabernet Sauvignon country, 30 minutes south) and Casablanca Valley (cool-climate whites and Pinot Noir, 90 minutes west) are both day-trip distance from the city. Chilean wine offers extraordinary quality at prices that remain surprisingly accessible.

Maipo Valley (30-45 minutes from Santiago)

Chile's most historic wine region and home to the country's greatest Cabernet Sauvignon. Key wineries open to visitors: Concha y Toro (Chile's largest, Pirque — excellent guided tours with English sessions, book ahead), Santa Rita (Buin — beautiful gardens, colonial hacienda, museum), Cousiño Macul (operating since 1856, just 15km from Providencia).

Casablanca Valley (90 minutes west)

A cooler coastal valley producing Chile's best Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The valley road between Casablanca town and the coast passes dozens of boutique wineries. Viña Casas del Bosque, Indomita and Emiliana (organic) offer excellent visits.

Getting There

Maipo: Uber/rental car or bus to Buin/Pirque ($20-30 Uber from Santiago). Casablanca: bus from Pajaritos terminal or organised wine tour from Santiago ($60-100 pp).