El Principal Winery

Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Andes in Chile’s Maipo Valley, Viña El Principal offers a journey into the heart of fine winemaking. Founded in 1993 by Jorge Fontaine Aldunate, owner of Hacienda El Principal, and Jean Paul Valette, a renowned French enologist with a legacy from the prestigious Château Pavie, the vineyard was established with a vision to craft exceptional wines that embody the essence of Chilean terroir and the esteemed traditions of the Valette family.

The unique climate, soil, and altitude of El Principal’s 54-hectare estate provided the ideal environment for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère. By 1999, their flagship blend, “El Principal,” made its debut and quickly earned acclaim as one of Chile’s ultra-premium wines, affirming the country’s potential for producing world-class vintages.

In 2005, the German shipbuilder and entrepreneur Jochen Döhle acquired the winery, bringing a new chapter of innovation and excellence. By 2013, the Said Handal family, a prominent Chilean name, joined forces with Döhle, eventually taking full ownership by 2018. This transition marked the beginning of a new era of expansion and development, enhancing the winery’s reputation and global reach.

The name “Viña El Principal” honors the Picunche Chief Andetelmo, the lord of the lands where this vineyard now thrives. Revered for his visionary and peaceful nature, Andetelmo earned the respect of Spanish conquistadors, embodying a spirit of openness and cultural exchange. Their wines today celebrate his legacy, reflecting the nobility and unique character of their extraordinary terroir.

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