Undurraga Wine Tasting Tour from Santiago

A Tasting Journey through Chile’s Maipo Valley at Undurraga Winery

If you’re looking to explore Chile’s acclaimed wine scene without committing an entire day, the Undurraga Wine Tasting Tour from Santiago offers a well-balanced experience. For around $75 per person, you’ll spend about four to five hours enjoying the picturesque Maipo Valley, home to some of the country’s most celebrated wines. The tour includes a visit to the Undurraga Winery—a major player in Chilean viticulture—and offers a chance to sample several signature wines with the convenience of hotel pickup.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on both education and enjoyment. The guides, Daniella and Fernanda, are praised as charming and knowledgeable, making the visit more meaningful than just a tasting. Two standout features are the comprehensive tour of the vineyards and underground cellars, which adds context and depth to the tasting experience, and the souvenir wine glass you get to take home, a nice touch for wine lovers.

However, a potential consideration is the variable tour timing—with the schedule shifting from 8 am to later times like 12:45 pm. Participants should be flexible with timing, especially since the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure in the vineyard area.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic wine insights, enjoy a relaxed pace, and want a taste of Chile’s premium wines in a scenic setting. It’s especially ideal for those who like guided tours with personal interaction, as reviews highlight the friendly and informative guides making all the difference.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.
• Tour of the vineyards and underground cellars provides immersive insights into Chilean winemaking.
• Tastings of several Reserva wines offer good value for wine enthusiasts.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the experience.
• A souvenir wine glass is included, perfect for remembering your trip.
• Duration of about 4 to 5 hours offers a relaxed yet informative outing.

Detailed Review of the Undurraga Wine Tasting Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup around 8 am, though be prepared for possible schedule shifts—as some reviewers have experienced a change from the original 8 am start to later times. Once at the vineyard, you’ll embark on a guided tour that lasts approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. This includes visits to several highlights: the vineyards, the soil analysis test pit, the vinification plant, and the underground cellars.

Walking through the vineyard rows, you’ll get a sense of the grape-growing environment that produces Chile’s famed wines. The underground cellars are a real treat—cool, dark, and atmospheric, they showcase the aging process and storage methods that give Chilean wines their distinctive character. The Aliwen corner and entertainment garden are additional stops that add flavor to the experience, blending cultural touches with the vinicultural tour.

The Tasting Experience

The tasting itself is a highlight, featuring three reserva wines (the specific brands vary depending on availability). Reviewers mention that the guides serve the wines with enthusiasm, explaining the aromas and flavors that define each vintage. One reviewer even joked about the “little” amount of wine served, which is common in tastings but worth noting if you’re hoping for a generous pour.

The Sibaris tour is named after the Sibaris Carménerè Gran Reserva 2013, a gold-medal-winning wine, hinting at the winery’s focus on quality. The tasting includes several emblematic wines under the Undurraga label, allowing you to compare different styles and vintages. The souvenir wine glass you receive is a nice memento, and many travelers appreciate having something tangible to remember their day.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Many reviews emphasize the delightful guides—Daniella and Fernanda—who make the tour engaging with their friendly demeanor and expertise. Their explanations about the wine-making process, the vineyard, and the history of Undurraga make the experience accessible, even for those new to wine tasting. The small group size—no more than 15 travelers—ensures a more personal touch, allowing for questions and interaction.

Transportation and Logistics

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a major convenience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with Santiago’s transportation options. The provided insurance and professional guide service add peace of mind. The tour’s duration—about four hours—strikes a good balance, allowing ample time for both the tour and tasting without feeling rushed.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers noted that the tour schedule can change, which might cause inconvenience if you’re on a tight timetable. The tour involves a small amount of walking in the vineyard, so those with mobility issues should be aware. Also, the wine tasting is restricted to adults 18 and over, which is standard but worth noting if traveling with younger companions.

The Value Proposition

For $75, you’re getting not only a visit to a prestigious Chilean winery but also a comprehensive look at the wine-making process, a tasting of multiple wines, and the comfort of door-to-door transportation. The combination of educational content and relaxed enjoyment makes this more than just a tasting—it’s an introduction to Chile’s wine culture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine aficionados eager to learn about Chilean wines in a scenic setting. It also suits first-time visitors wanting a guided experience that’s both informative and enjoyable. If you prefer small groups and personal attention, this tour fits the bill. However, if you’re seeking an all-day adventure or more extensive tastings, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

The Undurraga Wine Tasting Tour from Santiago offers a well-rounded experience that blends scenic vineyard views, expert-guided insights, and quality wine tastings. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable logistics, and inclusion of a souvenir glass make it a good value for those wanting to get a taste of Chile’s renowned wine country without a full-day commitment.

While the schedule can shift, the overall quality and intimate setting make this a memorable outing—especially if you’re eager to learn about Chilean wine and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, small groups, and high-quality wines in a scenic vineyard setting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Santiago hotels, making it very convenient for visitors.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about four to five hours total, including transport, the vineyard tour, and tastings.

What is the minimum age for participating in the wine tasting?
Participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in the wine tasting.

Are guides available in both Spanish and English?
Yes, the guided tour is offered in either Spanish or English, depending on your preference.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, insurance, a guided tour of the winery, wine tastings, and a souvenir wine glass.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund.

What are some highlights of the winery visit?
You’ll explore the vineyards, underground cellars, soil analysis pits, and vinification plant, gaining insight into Chile’s winemaking.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, expect some walking around the vineyard and cellar areas, so wear comfortable shoes.

To sum it up, if you’re after a balanced tasting experience, want to learn about Chile’s famous wines, and prefer small group guided tours, this Undurraga experience delivers. It’s particularly suitable for those who value authentic insights, good value, and scenic vineyard views—making it a worthwhile addition to your Santiago itinerary.