LEYDA

My favorite winery of all the places I visited in Chile was Leyda. The company is run by young, passionate winemakers in the coastal area of San Antonio. This place and the people were so charming, it was hard for me to separate their story of dedication and love from the wines . . . But I was told by the wine writer friends I made that this happens to them too in some respects, so in the end I didn't feel so bad. Their plants are very new, only about 2-3 years old and their coastal breezes create a fruitful micro climate. All the grapes were planted on a slope and are hand picked, "It's the only way."

I loved Leyda because it felt new, alive, humble and different there. My favorite wine from them by far was their Syrah; so warm, jammy and spicy. It was splendid with our lunch of paella, cheeses, salads and a special mushroom risotto prepared just for me.

CARO

I'm very far behind on posting and photo editing! All I can do when I get back from the evening is to collapse, purple-stained tongue and all, into bed. Seriously, we eat dinner here at 10:30 pm! It is a wonderful, late night culture but I'm such an old lady at heart, it's hard for me to function on so little sleep. I'll sleep when I'm dead, that's what I figure!

We have been in Mendoza, Argentina for a few days now and it is spectacular. The land, the warm sun, more passionate wine makers and chefs -- it's quite the experience. Caro Winery was the first we visited and so I'm starting there with a few photos. Isn't Estella, the winemaker, gorgeous? She spoke very personally about the challenges of her work and being a woman in a very male-dominated profession. She was frank, courageous, totally charismatic and brilliant. I fell in love.

Each place we visit, the men and women are so incredibly, draw-dropping good looking, it's hard not to stare. I don't know the secret, but perhaps it's all the good wine and delicious empanadas? Espero que si!

COUSINO MACUL

Yesterday, we spent time at Cousino Macul, one of the oldest wineries in Santiago, Chile. There were nice gardens surrounding the cave/cellar, with loads of native and foreign trees planted centuries ago. The interior of the cave was quite enchanting; it was such an ambitious project especially considering it was built about 150 years ago. It was quite moody down there . . .

My favorite wine we tasted there was their Sauvignon Gris, a blend of flavors I've never had. It was delicious and bright, perfect for a summer evening on the porch with some nibbles.