Casablanca

Overview

Casablanca Valley sits in the coastal hills between Santiago and Valparaíso, roughly 80 kilometers from the Pacific Ocean. Morning fog and afternoon sea breezes moderate temperatures, making it one of Chile's coolest wine regions and a benchmark for white wines and Pinot Noir.

Pablo Morandé of Viña Concha y Toro made the first commercial vintage here in 1987, proving that Chile could produce world-class cool-climate wines. Today the valley is planted mainly to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, with producers such as Casas del Bosque, Matetic, and Veramonte leading the way.

Key Varietals

• Sauvignon BlancA zesty, citrus-driven white with herbal notes and fresh acidity.
• ChardonnayA crisp, mineral white that ranges from unoaked to elegantly barrel-aged.
• Pinot NoirA light, red-fruit red with earthy undertones from the cool coastal climate.
• SyrahA cool-climate Syrah with white pepper, violets, and bright acidity.