Forbes Recognizes Santa Rita as the Best Winery in the World for 2025

In a recent announcement, Forbes, the highly regarded publication known for highlighting significant achievements in various sectors, has declared Santa Rita Winery as the best winery in the world for 2025. This prestigious recognition acknowledges not only the winery's storied past but also its commitment to innovative practices and sustainability, solidifying its status as a leading player in the global wine industry.

Santa Rita, founded in 1880, has made headlines for its exceptional contributions to winemaking. With historical roots dating back to the 17th century, when the first vines were planted in the region of Alto Jahuel, the winery offers visitors a unique experience that marries history and the art of winemaking. Nestled just 45 minutes from Santiago, visitors are greeted by the stunning landscapes of Chile's wine country, further enhancing their wine tourism experience.

The Forbes list, known as The World's 50 Best Wineries, recognizes Santa Rita for its heritage-driven approach, diverse offerings, and commitment to preserving the historical aspects of winemaking in South America. The winery seamlessly integrates its rich history into the visitor experience with various curated tours, tastings, and gourmet dining options. One notable attraction is the legendary 120 Patriotas Cellar, a historical site that sheltered soldiers during Chile's independence movement.

The extensive estate features the Hotel Casa Real, a neo-Gothic chapel, and a centenary park—providing a romantic backdrop for wine tastings and leisurely activities. Guests can choose from eight expertly designed tours, which educate them about the rich winemaking traditions while indulging in premium wine tastings, including the renowned Casa Real variety, celebrated for its exceptional quality.

This accolade not only highlights Santa Rita's triumph but also places Chile on the map as a key wine-producing country. Other Chilean wineries, such as Santa Carolina and Viu Manent, have also earned spots on the list, demonstrating the country's robust presence in the global wine scene.

Forbes utilized multiple criteria to determine the rankings, focusing on factors like heritage, mentorship of the new generation of winemakers, innovation in vineyard management, sustainability, and contributions to wine tourism. Such stringent selection measures make this recognition a significant accomplishment that showcases Santa Rita's dedication to excellence and sustainability in winemaking.

Elena Carretero, Corporate Affairs, Sustainability, and Tourism Director at Santa Rita, articulated the pride felt by the winery's team. "This recognition fills us with pride and reflects the work of generations who have made Santa Rita a benchmark of wine and culture in South America. It's a distinction that celebrates the legacy, identity, and projection of our country in the world," she stated.

As Santa Rita continues to garner accolades, the winery invites guests to engage in its rich history and vibrant present. Visitors can experience being a winemaker for a day or explore the site where Carmenère wine was rediscovered three decades ago, thus highlighting the winery's ongoing contributions to the wine industry.

Established as a National Monument in 1972, Santa Rita embodies the essence of South America's wine heritage while advancing towards a sustainable future in winemaking. Its recognition extends beyond mere awards—it reinforces the importance of preserving cultural legacies for the enjoyment of future generations.

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, Santa Rita Winery stands out as a model for excellence, combining the best of tradition with a vision for the future. As they move forward, the winery looks to uphold its prestigious reputation while continuing to enchant wine enthusiasts from around the globe.