Colchagua Valley Viñas Viu Manet and Montes Alfha

Traveling to Santiago and craving a true taste of Chile’s renowned wine culture? This guided tour offers an unforgettable day in the Colchagua Valley, widely celebrated as one of the country’s premier wine regions. For $370 per person, you’ll spend about 8 to 10 hours exploring two exceptional vineyards: Viu Manent and Montes. What makes this experience special? It’s the combination of stunning Andes views, personalized touches like horse-drawn carriage rides, and intimate wine tastings led by knowledgeable guides. Plus, it’s a private, flexible experience with a friendly, bilingual driver and the chance to enjoy authentic Chilean wines in a beautiful setting—not to mention the added bonus of being LGBTIQ+ friendly.

Two aspects we love: First, the chance to explore vineyards in vintage horse-drawn carriages adds a charming, old-world feel. Second, the guided tastings inside the wineries are detailed and personalized, making you feel like a guest rather than just a tourist. A potential consideration? The full day requires some early wake-up and patience with traffic, as the drive from Santiago to the valley takes about two and a half hours. But for lovers of wine, scenic landscapes, and a bit of pampering, this tour hits the sweet spot. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic, behind-the-scenes winery experiences and are comfortable with a full, active day out.

Key Points

• Private, Personalized Experience: Bilingual guides tailor the visit based on your interests.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a comfortable 2.5-hour transfer through Chile’s picturesque countryside.
• Authentic Visits: Tour historic vineyards with unique features like vintage horse-drawn carriage rides.
• Wine Tastings Included: Sample five wines in each vineyard, including premium labels and barrel tastings.
• Beautiful Views: The vineyards are set against the stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains.
• Flexible and Gay Friendly: This is an inclusive, intimate tour with a minimum of two participants, often booked well in advance.

A Deep Dive into the Colchagua Valley Wine Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early but Is Worth the Effort

We start our day at 7:30 am, with the pickup arranged from central Santiago. The transfer to the Colchagua Valley is about two and a half hours, offering a chance to enjoy the Chilean countryside, punctuated by vineyards, rolling hills, and distant mountain views. The early start might seem long, especially if you’re not a morning person, but it ensures you beat the midday traffic and arrive ready to explore.

First Stop: Viu Manent – A Blend of History and Charm

Our first vineyard visit is to Viu Manent, a name synonymous with quality and tradition in the region. The highlight here is the Icon Tour, a personalized experience that adapts to your interests. As one reviewer notes, “we visited key history halls and variety gardens,” giving us a real sense of the vineyard’s legacy.

What sets Viu Manent apart? The horse-drawn carriage rides around the vineyards are a nostalgic touch—imagine traveling through lush grapevines pulled by beautiful horses, with the wind in your hair and views of the Andes framing the landscape. We found this to be an authentic way to experience the sprawling vineyard, which complements the tasting experience perfectly.

During the visit, you’ll get a guided tasting of five wines, including the exclusive Viu 1, Viu Infinito, and the Don Miguel cellar selections. This is more than just sipping wine; it’s about understanding the vineyard’s philosophy of producing single-vineyard wines and appreciating their craftsmanship. A visit to the handicrafts shop wraps up the stop, giving you a chance to pick up souvenirs or local artisan products.

Lunch Option at Rayuela Restaurant

If you’re hungry after the vineyard tour, we recommend reserving a table at the Rayuela Restaurant within the vineyard. This offers a convenient and relaxing way to enjoy Chilean cuisine paired with excellent wines. Be aware, though, that lunch isn’t included in the tour, so plan your budget accordingly.

Second Stop: Vina Montes – A Modern Winemaking Marvel

After lunch or a brief rest, we head to Vina Montes, a winery that combines tradition with cutting-edge techniques. The Premium Tour here is a step into the world of ultra-premium wines like Montes Alpha M, Montes Folly, and Purple Angel. The visit begins with a walk through the vineyard plantations, where sweeping views of the valley and Andes create a perfect backdrop.

The museum of old machinery offers insight into Chile’s winemaking history, while the tank area showcases modern fermentation equipment. Perhaps the most memorable part is the Barrel Room, where wines rest in oak barrels and Gregorian chants softly play in the background, creating an almost spiritual atmosphere for wine maturation. The guided tastings here include a variety of glasses with the winery’s logo—an extra touch that many reviews find memorable.

Authenticity, Comfort, and Flexibility

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned vehicle, bilingual guides, and round-trip transfer make the experience smooth and stress-free. This tour is strictly private, meaning it’s tailored to your pace and interests, which adds a layer of comfort many travelers appreciate.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture: guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the delicious wines. One reviewer shared how the carriage ride and tastings made for a “fantastic vineyard tour,” highlighting the personalized, friendly service. Another mentioned that experiencing the Purple Angel was a bucket-list moment, showing how access to rare wines enhances the value of this trip.

Some guests appreciated the authenticity of the visit, especially the fact that the wineries are family-oriented and steeped in tradition. The ability to customize the experience—like coordinating lunch or adjusting timing—adds to its appeal.

What to Keep in Mind

While the experience is largely positive, it’s worth noting that long drives and early mornings might not suit everyone. Also, alcohol is only served to those over 21, which is standard but important to remember if traveling with younger guests. The full day can be tiring, especially in warm weather, so dressing comfortably and staying hydrated is advisable.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private vineyard experience in Colchagua Valley is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Chilean terroir in an intimate setting. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic vineyard visits, enjoy scenic drives, and want to sample a range of wines—including some premium labels. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic day out, with charming touches like horse-drawn carriage rides and guided tastings, this tour delivers.

While it requires a full day and some planning, the personalized service and stunning scenery make it worth the effort. Ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, relaxed introduction to Chile’s wine country, this experience offers both quality and genuine charm.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfer from Santiago in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the journey hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Santiago to the vineyards?
It takes approximately two and a half hours each way, so prepare for a scenic but potentially lengthy drive.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, both vineyards include guided tastings of multiple wines, including premium options.

Can I have lunch at the vineyards?
Lunch isn’t included but can be reserved separately at Rayuela Restaurant within Viu Manent.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those under 21?
Alcoholic beverages are only served to travelers over 21. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drives and tours, but tastings are reserved for adults.

What size group will I be in?
This is a private tour for a minimum of two people, with a maximum of 15 travelers overall. Most bookings are for small, intimate groups.

Whether you’re a serious wine lover or simply want to experience the Chilean countryside in style, this Colchagua Valley tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day of scenic beauty, authentic wine experiences, and warm hospitality.