Elite Traveler Spring 2021

Clockwise Kingston Family Vineyards; Matetic Vineyards; Matetic Vineyard’s bodega

TAKE A DAY

Casablanca wine region About an hour’s drive northwest of Santiago lies the Casablanca Valley, a cool-climate wine-producing region known for fresh, light whites and rocky, fruity reds. Relatively new by Chilean standards, the valley was first planted in the 1980s. Since then, many of its winemakers have vowed to lead the world in sustainable viticulture practices, focusing on everything from vineyard planting standards to energy consumption and safe labor methods. Matetic Vineyards , Chile’s first biodynamic winery, opened in 1999 and remains family-owned. The property includes the 10-room colonial house turned La Casona Hotel overlooking the vines, and the small-plates restaurant, Equilibrio, offering a four-course Chilean tasting menu. Originally from Croatia, the family transported sustainability initiatives that have become standard on property: In addition to being biodynamic and organic, the winery most notably composts restaurant waste with grape pomace, enriching its soil. Should a tour be of interest, don’t miss the chocolate wine shots. matetic.com

Down the road, Kingston Family Vineyards consists of 350 acres that yield small-production lots of pinot noir, chardonnay, syrah, merlot and sauvignon blanc in addition to the robust number of grapes the estate sells to other Chilean winemakers. Although the farm has been in the family for nearly a century, their hills were first planted in 1998. Kingston continues to expand its offerings with vineyard picnics, cooking classes and a wine-pairing lunch. kingstonvineyards.com Hire in-country travel design company VM Elite to handle the private car, transfers and logistics, not to mention the tasting reservations, lunch and any wine shipping needs. vmelite.com

Syrah grapes from Kingston Family Vineyards