Leaving the urban development of La Serena behind, we travel east along the transversal valley named after the river Elqui, towards the city of Vicuña.
The low cloud cover associated with the coast is also left behind and the temperatures rise as we travel inland into the semi arid desert. Vegetable production is replaced by fruit, especially the Chilean papaya and the custard apple, only to be taken over by vast carpets of vineyards.
The heat and warmth of the sun provides long clear periods of clear sunshine which allows excellent conditions for grape production. Traditionally, it is here in this region that the
grapes are grown for export as table grapes or for the local production of ‘pisco’ which is the national drink of Chile, made from a sweet wine which then goes through a process of
distillation.
About an hour into the valley we come to the small city of Vicuña, nestling among the mountains which mark the divide between the low coastal mountains and the high Andes range of the cordillera. From here, the ascent into the narrower valleys becomes more marked as we climb upwards into the majestic pyramid shapes of the sun baked exposed rocky sand coloured mountains contrasting with the cerulean blue of the open sky.
Another forty minutes along the road to Monte Grande brings us to the smallest and highest boutique winery in Chile, Cavas del Valle, situated on the slopes near to the river (1,000 metres
above sea level). Here, the owners, Marlies and Raymundo welcome visitors to this unique winery in the converted old pastoral house or ‘casona’.
They usually give a small tour about the process of making the wine, accompanied by classical music playing softly in the background. The storage room with its collection of clocks also
exhibits some of the modern sculptures which are arranged throughout the winery. This family run concern has an average production of 20,000 bottles per year, small output by Chilean
standards but the quality of the wine produced, especially the Shiraz, allow local output through hotels as well as some exportation to Europe.
The outside patio terrace area is an exquisite place to enjoy the tasting of the different wines, sitting in the shade from the hot sun and enjoying the peace which pervades this haven of warm
tranquility.
There are several good hotels or cabanas in the locality which are ideal to enjoy not only the warmth and sun but also the relaxation which this special valley promotes. Many of these will be happy to serve a glass or two from the Cavas del Valle carta with the local gastronomy so that your journey may be replete. The magic of this Valley will unfold as the night stars appear in the clearest skies of the world, an unforgettable experience.
By Judith Plaza from La Serena in Chile
Bilingual Tour Guide of Tailor Made Wine Tours By AndesWines.com
Andes Wines Communications ™
andes@andeswines.com
