Viña Santa Rita is one of Chile’s leading producers and also one of the Maipo wineries most worth visiting, not only for the impressive portfolio of wines, but for its rich history and heritage. Founded in 1880, Santa Rita winery is one of the oldest and longest-standing in Chile but the estate’s history stretches back much further and was in fact a refuge for 120 independence soldiers in 1814. Today 120 is the name of Santa Rita’s entry-level wine, but production ranges from mid-level Medalla Real to their top ranges including the excellent Floresta line and seductive Casa Real Cabernet, under the expert hand of top Chilean winemaker Sebastián Labbé and his team with grapes from all over Chile. With a beautiful landscaped park and gardens, 19th century mansion now Hotel Casa Real, neo-gothic chapel, Andean museum, Doña Paula Restaurant and vineyard tours for all, save plenty of time for a visit.
About Santa Rita winery
Santa Rita, one of Chile’s longest-standing wineries, was set up in 1880 by Don Domingo Fernández Concha on his family estate in the Maipo Valley. Like other Chilean gentleman vineyard owners of the time, he looked to France for inspiration, vine cuttings and winemaking expertise and this French influence can be discerned to this day in wines like the seductive Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon.
