Maule is a wine region of contrasts: it is the oldest winemaking region in Chile with some vines close to 200 years old, and yet it is also one of the most innovative and modern when it comes to winemaking techniques. It is the largest region in Chile, yet it also harbors the highest number of small holdings. Many of these small vineyard holdings are dry-farmed (without irrigation), or organically grown. The variation in microclimates and soil types makes this region as diverse and versatile as the wines it produces.
Due south of the Central Valley, Cabernet plantings in Maule are nearly matched in production by the high-yielding, white grape known as País. This region has optimum conditions for late-ripening varietals like Merlot and is also home to some of the country’s oldest Carmenère vineyards.