First developed for vines in the early 1980s, it is much cooler than the traditional wine-growing areas, benefiting directly from the coastal fog that rolls off the Pacific. Drip irrigation systems allow growers to secure improved concentration and flavour in the grapes.
Yields are nearly half that of other regions.
Certainly wherever a producer has a Casablanca cuv e and a wine based on the same varietals from other regions, the Casablanca wine is invariably the better. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are the most successful varieties, but Gew rztraminer also thrives along with promising Pinot Noir and Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon is as yet slightly on the green side, but improving as the vines grow older. Although the quality of the wines is generally good, there is a price. Drip irrigation is expensive to install and maintain and, incidentally, the valley has now become the most expensive vinous real estate in Chile.