Coquimbo region

Extreme terroir and cooling fog

The secret to the Coquimbo region's success lies in its unique combination of climate and geology. Although the region is located on the edge of the desert and features extremely low rainfall, the vineyards are saved from overheating by the cold Humboldt Current flowing from Antarctica. It forms a dense morning fog, known locally as camanchaca, which envelops the valleys and protects the grapes from the scorching morning sun. As the fog dissipates during the day, the grapes bask under clear skies, and the massive diurnal temperature variation allows them to retain crisp acidity. Furthermore, the region is rich in ancient limestone deposits, which provide the wines with an expressive mineral backbone rarely found in Chile.

Three unique wine valleys

The region is divided into three main valleys, each possessing a distinct character

• Elqui Valley is the northernmost and highest-altitude valley, famous for having one of the clearest skies in the world. Here, at high elevations, highly aromatic Sauvignon Blanc and peppery, floral cool-climate Syrah wines are born.
• Limarí Valley is the true jewel of the region, often called Chile's answer to Burgundy. Due to its exceptional limestone soils and proximity to the ocean, this valley is unsurpassed in the production of elegant, salt- and chalk-scented Chardonnay and subtle Pinot Noir wines.
• Choapa Valley is the southernmost and narrowest valley in the region, where vineyards are situated on the rocky slopes of the Andes Mountains. It is a very small but highly promising region, producing high-quality, concentrated red wines.

The grape varieties that bring fame to the region

Although various grapes are cultivated in the Coquimbo region, a few of them undoubtedly play the leading role

• Syrah best reflects the region's potential. Unlike in the warmer regions of Chile, the Syrah here is more elegant, featuring pronounced notes of black olives, violets, ground pepper, and vibrant, lingering acidity.
• Chardonnay from the Limarí Valley has become an international sensation. These wines stand out with citrus freshness, balanced creaminess, and a distinct minerality reminiscent of a sea breeze.
• Pinot Noir thrives perfectly in the cool coastal climate, yielding soft wines scented with red berries and forest floor, possessing a firm yet subtle structure.