Maule Valley
The Maule Valley, situated in the southern part of Chile's Central Valley, is a globally recognized wine-producing region. This vast valley, 250 kilometers away from Santiago, was one of the first places where vine cultivation was initiated in Chile. Known for its exceptional volcanic soils, the Maule Valley is also blessed with a mix of gravelly and clayey alluvial soils courtesy of the Maule River that runs through it. This land of variety also hosts red gravel and granite rock areas. The valley's broad expanse and diverse microclimates make it ideal for producing both red and white wines. The region is well-known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and aromatic wines, and the production techniques range from traditional to innovative. The Maule Valley is home to modern vineyards that produce Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Carménère, known for their bright acidity and juicy fruit notes. It also harbors age-old vineyards and dry crops that yield balanced and traditional wines such as Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec.
| Region | Maule Valley |
|---|---|
| Country | Chile |
| Climate and soil | The Maule Valley's climate is strongly influenced by the Mediterranean, characterized by abundant rainfall in winter and virtually no rain in summer. The long, hot, and dry summer that peaks in January makes the valley's climate ideal for vine growth. The vineyards are situated on the undulating hills of well-drained, volcanic soils, or silt-alluvial soils. These soils extend into the mountains, along the coast, and up to the Andes, reaching an altitude of up to 3000 meters. The variety in soil type and climate across the valley contributes to the distinct characteristics of the wines produced here. |