Chile and Argentina's Best Wine Regions

In recent years Latin America has progressively managed to establish itself among the internationally acknowledged wine-producing regions. Although the continent has been producing wine for centuries, since European settlers introduced the activity, it has only obtained its first class recognition in the past 10 to 20 years. Today, no international wine competition is held without at least a couple South American wines making the top of the list. Argentina and Chile are particularly famous wine-producers, each boasting various regions where the climate allows for wine varieties to grow strong and create elegant, rich wines of all types.

Argentina's most famous wine region is of course Mendoza, located on the eastern side of the Andean range, about 2 hours from Buenos Aires by plane. With its dry and sunny weather, Mendoza offers an excellent climate to grow vines, and its diverse ground has allowed wine-makers to develop some of the world's best wines. European settlers introduced vines to the region in the 19th century and today, the region is home to over a thousand vineyards, many of which can be visited. Wine-producers in the area are especially open and not at all shy about sharing their secrets.

Chile is mainly known for producing wine in its beautiful Elqui Valley, situated in the northern part of the country. In between the Andes and the Pacific coast, the Elqui Valley boasts a perfect climate for vines. Right at the southern tip of the Atacama desert, the valley enjoys strong sun and an extraordinarily dry atmosphere which is perfect for grapes. It's also one of the world's recognized spots for astronomical observation thanks to its clear, dry skies, and 3 international observatories are located in the area, some of which can even be visited.

Vineyards have existed for a long time in the area, but only in recent years have wine-makers started to experiment and grow vines at a higher altitude, up to 6,500 feet (2,000 meters) above sea levels. Surprisingly, this has led to the production of exquisite wines, particularly of the Shyrah variety, some of which have received international prizes and are celebrated around the world by the wine community.

If you are a wine enthusiast, make sure to take a tour of these two excellent wine regions as you will not be disappointed in the least. You'll get to taste internationally acclaimed wines, explore beautiful landscapes and learn all about the fascinating wine-production in the many vineyards that open their doors to all curious travelers.

This guide to South America's best wine regions was written by a Latin America travel expert available to help you customize your [http://www.argentinaforless.com/packages/specials.php]Argentina vacations and [http://www.chileforless.com/packages/tours.php]Chile tours.

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