If you’re seeking a wine experience that combines history, authenticity, and a bit of scenic beauty, the Sensory Journey at Santa Rita offers just that. For around $80 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring one of Chile’s most revered wineries, nestled in the Santiago Metropolitan Region. The tour includes visits to the winery and bottling plant, a guided walk through the vineyards, and a tasting of some distinguished reserve wines. It’s a chance to taste Chile’s viticultural excellence in a setting that’s both historic and picturesque.
What we find most compelling about this experience is how it balances educational insight with relaxed enjoyment. We loved the way the guides emphasize Chile’s wine tradition while letting you soak in the views of lush vineyards and rugged mountains. The highlight for many is stepping into the “Winery of the 120 Patriots,” a building declared a National Monument, which adds a layer of cultural significance to the visit. Plus, the chance to sample award-winning cabernet sauvignon—a reflection of Santa Rita’s prestige—cements this tour as a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.
A potential consideration is that the tour operates on a shared basis with a small group of no more than 10 participants, which is great for intimacy but might limit flexibility in timing or personalization. Also, since transportation is included only in the form of private pickup from your hotel within the urban area, travelers staying outside this zone should consider transportation logistics.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and wine tasting—all wrapped into one. It’s especially perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Chilean wine culture without rushing through. If you’re curious about Chile’s legendary wines and want a behind-the-scenes look at a historic estate, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Historic Vineyards & Buildings: Explore the “Winery of the 120 Patriots,” a site declared a National Monument.
- Award-Winning Wines: Tasting of Santa Rita’s top reserve wines, including Chile’s best Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Authentic Experience: Guided tour focuses on Chilean viticulture amidst scenic vineyards and mountains.
- Personalized & Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers for a more intimate, engaging experience.
- Convenient Pickup & Private Transport: Included from your urban accommodation.
- 5-Hour Duration: Designed for a relaxed, in-depth look but fits well into a busy sightseeing day.
What the Tour Includes and How It’s Structured
The Sensory Journey is crafted to give you a taste—literally and figuratively—of Chile’s wine-making heritage. Starting with a pick-up service at your accommodation within the city, you’ll be driven in private transport to the vineyards. This makes the experience feel personalized and hassle-free, especially compared to crowded bus tours.
Once at the estate, the focus is on guided visits to notable spots like the winery and bottling plant. The guided tour of the vineyards is shared, meaning you’ll be walking through rows of grapevines and listening to insights about Chilean viticulture practices. This is a chance to see where the grapes grow and understand the climate and terrain that give Santa Rita wines their signature character.
The highlight of the visit is the entry into the “Winery of the 120 Patriots,” a building made of lime and stone, which is both visually striking and historically significant. It’s fascinating to stand inside a structure recognized as a National Monument, and it adds a sense of history and pride to your tasting experience.
Finally, the tour culminates in a wine tasting session, where you will sample Santa Rita’s reserve wines, including their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon. This is an excellent opportunity to compare different varietals and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Planning more time in Santa Rita? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What Makes Santa Rita Special
Founded in 1880, Santa Rita is a name that carries weight in the world of wine. Their Line 120 is particularly famous, and their wines have received significant international recognition, including a prestigious Royal Medal from “The Drink Business” magazine for their Cabernet Sauvignon—considered one of the best in Chile and the world.
The estate’s picturesque location, surrounded by rolling vineyards and mountains, isn’t just a scenic backdrop; it’s a key part of the experience. As one review notes, the environment “is perfect for showcasing Chilean viticulture in its natural setting.”
Plus, the bottling plant visit provides a behind-the-scenes look at wine production, which many visitors find intriguing. For those curious about the winemaking process, this isn’t just a stroll through pretty scenery; it’s a glimpse into what goes into making quality wine.
Practical Details and What to Expect
- Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 5 hours, with check-in times varying depending on availability. It’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules.
- Cost & Value: At $80 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value, considering the private transport, guided visits, and tastings included.
- Group Size: Limited to 10 people, which tends to foster a relaxed atmosphere and more personalized attention.
- Languages: Tours are available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse range of visitors.
- Cancellation Policy: Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.
The Experience on the Ground
Expect a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about Chilean wine culture. The guides are informative, emphasizing the tradition and pride behind Santa Rita’s wines. As one visitor put it, “we loved the way the guide explained the history and significance of each part of the estate, making the visit both educational and enjoyable.”
The scenery is a highlight in itself, with expansive views of vineyards stretching toward distant mountains. It’s an environment that encourages appreciation of how geography influences wine quality.
The tasting session is well curated, with a focus on reserve wines that showcase Santa Rita’s best efforts. Expect to sample wines with complex aromas and balanced flavors—an ideal way to understand how Chile’s terroir shapes its wines.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthenticity & Cultural Significance
The visit to the “Winery of the 120 Patriots” offers more than just a pretty building; it’s a symbol of Chile’s history. Declared a National Monument, it connects the wine to Chile’s broader cultural narrative, making the experience richer and more memorable.
This tour is not just about tasting wine—it’s about understanding the heritage and craftsmanship that define Santa Rita’s reputation. It’s a genuine, understated experience that emphasizes authenticity over extravagance.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of Chilean wines. It also suits those interested in history and culture, thanks to the monument and historic buildings. Travelers who prefer small, intimate groups will appreciate the personalized service, and anyone wanting a balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and tasting will find it compelling.
The Santa Rita Vineyard Tour offers a well-rounded view of one of Chile’s most esteemed wineries. It balances historical significance, scenic landscapes, and wine excellence in a relaxed, intimate setting. The inclusion of a visit to the historic “Winery of the 120 Patriots” and tastings of award-winning wines make it stand out among other vineyard experiences.
While it’s not a fast-paced adventure, the 5-hour duration provides enough time to soak in the culture, ask questions, and truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind Santa Rita’s wines. The private transport and small group size mean you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd, making for a more engaging experience.
If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic, educational, and scenic experiences, this tour is a great choice. It offers a taste of Chile’s wine heritage in a setting that’s both beautiful and meaningful—perfect for those who want more than just a tasting and prefer to connect with the story behind the wine.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transport from your accommodation within the urban area, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.
How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 5 hours, giving enough time for visits, tastings, and scenery without feeling rushed.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
What languages are available during the tour?
Tours are offered in both English and Spanish, so you can choose the language that suits you best.
Are the visits guided?
Yes, the vineyard and winery visits are guided, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about Chilean viticulture and Santa Rita’s history.
What wines are tasted?
The tasting features Santa Rita’s reserve wines, including their award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and other distinguished varietals.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is this experience suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While primarily a wine tasting experience, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic views, historic buildings, and the overall cultural insight, but they may find the main focus is on wine appreciation.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking through vineyards and historic buildings.
To sum it up, the Santa Rita vineyard tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines history, scenery, and top-quality wines in a setting that feels both authentic and inspiring. It’s a perfect outing for those wanting to understand Chile’s wine identity in a relaxed yet informative environment. If you’re after a genuine glimpse into Chile’s viticultural pride while enjoying stunning landscapes, this tour will not disappoint.
You can check availability for your dates here: