MASSENEZ.WINE

The valley is named after the Cachapoal river which runs through its heart, bringing fresh, mineral-rich water melt down from the high altitudes glaciers, source of water for the vineyard irrigation.

What sets the area apart is the unique influence of the Andes mountain range, up to 6’962 meters high and 7’000 km long, and the mineral soils which consist of large alluvial stones, much like those found on the left bank in Bordeaux.

The Andes play an important role as a temperature regulator. Summer temperatures can rise up to 35°C and above during days, but cool down to 10°C and below during nights. Temperature variation can be more than 20°C during the 24-hour cycle.

This high diurnal temperature variation is of particular importance. In grapes, it has the effect of producing high acid and high sugar content as the grapes’ exposure to sunlight increases the ripening qualities, while the sudden drop in temperature at night preserves the balance of natural acids in the grape.

Chile is phylloxera free, which means the vines are un-grafted, from the original rootstock of Bordeaux’s vineyard, and produce outstanding grapes.

The 60 hectares of old vines are planted in a former Cachapoal river branch.

The soil is highly mineral, alluvial, with silty texture, clay on surface and sandy in depth, with a high content of rocks. It favors drainage, oxygenation and depth plant root development.