If you’re looking to combine Chilean wine culture with some stunning scenery, the El Principal Premium Winery tour might just hit the sweet spot. Priced at $110 per person, this 5-hour experience departs from Santiago and takes you into the heart of the Maipo Valley—a region renowned for high-quality, limited-production wines. What sets this tour apart is its focus on premium wines, cozy natural surroundings, and an unforgettable sunset view over the vineyards and mountains.

We love that this experience is very much about quality over quantity. It’s a quieter, more personal way to enjoy wine tasting, with a visit to a boutique winery that emphasizes craftsmanship. The scenic drive itself, lasting around 75 minutes each way, offers glimpses of Chile’s lush landscape, building anticipation before you reach the winery. And the sunset at El Principal, with panoramic views, truly makes the effort worthwhile.

A potential consideration is the duration — with roughly four hours on-site, some might find it a bit tight if they want to explore every detail or enjoy a leisurely pace. But if you’re short on time and crave a meaningful wine experience, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate small-batch wines, enjoy scenic vistas, and want a more intimate tasting experience away from the busier, larger wineries. It’s perfect for couples, wine aficionados, or travelers who want a genuine taste of Chile’s wine craftsmanship in a relaxed, authentic setting.

Key Points

Premium Wines: Limited production means high-quality, carefully crafted wines.
Scenic Setting: Surrounded by nature, with a sunset that’s worth waiting for.
Personal Experience: Small-group atmosphere with cozy surroundings.
Inclusive Extras: Tasting, gourmet cheese, snacks, and a bottle to take home.
Transport Convenience: Round-trip transportation from key Santiago locations.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to book now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the El Principal Premium Winery Tour

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A Warm Welcome and Easy Pickup

The tour starts with convenient pickup options from Providencia, Santiago, Vitacura, and Las Condes — some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. The transportation is in a comfortable van, making the roughly 75-minute drive to the Maipo Valley feel more like part of the experience rather than just transit. This drive offers a glimpse of the Chilean countryside, with some scenic views on the way that set the tone for a relaxed day.

Exploring the Winery: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Once at El Principal, the guided tour lasts about 4 hours and begins with a walk through the winery’s facilities. The guide, likely to be bilingual (Spanish and English), will take you through the production process, giving a sense of the craftsmanship that goes into each limited-batch wine. We particularly liked the part where you descend through a portal into the cellar—a cozy, cool space that smells faintly of oak and grape.

You’ll visit a century-old tree at the foot of the vines, which is more than just a picturesque background. It’s a reminder of the winery’s respect for tradition and nature. The setting here — with views of mountains and vineyards — makes for a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

Tasting in Cozy Surroundings

The highlight for many is the three tastings. These take place in a warm, inviting environment, where you can savor the wines at your own pace. The guide will walk you through each wine, explaining nuances and what to look for in terms of aroma, taste, and finish.

We loved the pairing with gourmet cheeses and snacks — a thoughtfully curated cheese board and nibbles that complement the wines beautifully. It’s a simple but effective way to elevate the tasting, turning it into a mini feast.

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A Sunset to Remember

After the tastings, you’ll gather at a special spot at the foot of a century-old tree with spectacular views of the mountains and vineyards. This is when the tour really shines: watching the sunset paint the landscape in gold and pink hues. Many reviews mention this as “the best part,” and it’s easy to see why.

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The Bottle to Take Home

Each guest receives a bottle of wine — a nice touch that adds value to the experience. Whether you choose to enjoy it later in your hotel or bring it home as a souvenir, it’s a tangible reminder of your day. Plus, you’ll receive a personalized glass with the winery logo, making the tasting feel more special and memorable.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After soaking in the sunset views, the van takes you back to Santiago, making the drive again about 75 minutes. The drop-off points mirror the pickup locations, giving flexibility based on where you’re staying.

What Makes This Different from Other Tours?

Unlike larger, busier wineries, El Principal offers a more intimate, high-quality experience. Its focus on limited production wines means you’re tasting some of the best the Maipo Valley has to offer, without the crowds. The cozy environment, combined with scenic views and gourmet pairings, creates a memorable setting you’ll likely revisit in your mind long after your trip.

We also appreciate the flexibility of the included options — you can choose to drink your bottle there or take it away, which is perfect for those wanting to savor their wine later or share it with friends.

A Balanced View: Considerations

The main thing to keep in mind is the duration. Some reviews note that the tour is about four hours in total, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore every detail. Also, the tour does not operate on rainy days, so check the weather forecast if you’re planning an outdoor sunset experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to taste premium, small-batch wines in a relaxed environment. It’s also perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone looking to combine scenic views with wine tasting. If you value authenticity, limited production, and a personal touch, this tour offers a compelling way to experience Chilean wine outside the busier wineries.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, winery tour, tastings, and sunset viewing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation, the guided winery tour, three tastings, a cheese and snack board, one bottle of wine per person, and a personalized winery glass.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially for the sunset portion.

Are there any restrictions?
Large luggage, non-folding strollers, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed. You cannot bring food or drinks into the vehicle or consume alcohol inside the van.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now & pay later, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s focused on small-batch, high-quality wines, with scenic sunset views and a cozy atmosphere — a contrast to more commercialized winery visits.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
No, the tour does not take place on rainy days, ensuring a unique outdoor sunset experience.

Can I buy or bring my own wine?
The tour includes a bottle of wine to take away, but bringing your own wine isn’t part of the experience. Enjoy the wines provided, and take home the one included.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful blend of premium wine tasting, scenic beauty, and relaxed ambiance. It’s clear that the focus on limited-production wines and cozy surroundings makes for a memorable outing, especially if you’re seeking something a bit more exclusive than the larger commercial wineries. The sunset views are a definite highlight, offering that perfect moment where nature and craftsmanship meet.

For wine lovers, romantics, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Chile’s Maipo Valley without the crowds, this experience hits the right notes. Its emphasis on authenticity and quality ensures you leave with more than just photos — you’ll take home a story and a few bottles of very fine wine.

To sum it up, if your goal is to enjoy a small-group, scenic, and taste-focused winery experience that balances luxury with authenticity, El Principal’s tour is well worth considering. Just be prepared for a beautiful sunset, some quality wines, and plenty of memories to cherish.

Note: Always check availability and weather conditions before booking. And remember, this tour is a wonderful way to see a different side of Chilean wine—more intimate, scenic, and flavorful than many mass-market experiences.