Destilería Los Nichos
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Destilería Los Nichos

4.7
·309 reviews·, Chile

Chile's oldest pisco distillery, offering a journey into traditional spirit making with a touch of mystery and charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
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Destilería Los Nichos

Destilería Los Nichos

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chile's oldest pisco distillery, offering a journey into traditional spirit making with a touch of mystery and charm.

4.7
(309 reviews)

"Highly recommend going here! The tour was fun and informative, and the pisco tasting was excellent."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tours Ahead

Secure your spot for a pisco tour and tasting by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Embrace the Journey

The distillery is a bit off the beaten path; enjoy the scenic drive through the Elqui Valley. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Oldest Distillery

The Oldest Distillery

Paihuano

Step back in time at Chile's oldest pisco distillery, a living museum of artisanal spirit production since 1868.

Artisanal Pisco Tasting

Artisanal Pisco Tasting

Tasting Room

Savor the distinct flavors of traditionally crafted pisco, with knowledgeable guides explaining each unique varietal.

Historic Stone Tunnels

Historic Stone Tunnels

Distillery Grounds

Explore the mysterious stone tunnels that hold centuries of pisco-making secrets and local legends.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Pisco Pilgrimage

Destilería Los Nichos is the oldest pisco distillery in Chile, offering a unique glimpse into traditional production. Book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Consider visiting mid-week for a more relaxed experience.

Embrace the Elqui Valley Vibe

Located a bit off the main tourist path, Los Nichos rewards those who venture further. Embrace the journey through the scenic Elqui Valley, known for its stargazing and artisanal products. Allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the pisco tasting.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the valley's golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Te mostraré lo que logramos ver en 2 días en La Serena🩵 Es muyyyyyy lindooo #laserena #valledelelqui #quehacerenlaserena #findesemana
@santiagocitygirl
8.9K likes • 414.2K views

Book Tours Ahead

Secure your spot for a pisco tour and tasting by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Embrace the Journey

The distillery is a bit off the beaten path; enjoy the scenic drive through the Elqui Valley. :car:

Fuimos a un Tenedor Libre En La Serena #laserenacoquimbo #coquimbo #laserenachile🇨🇱 #laserena #comidatiktok #comida #tenedorlibre #carne #lomovetado
@maravillosodnk
6.1K likes • 267.1K views
Descubre la historia de Fundo Los Nichos, la destilería más antigua de Chile, donde la elaboración artesanal del pisco perdura desde 1868. ¡Aromas y sabores que cuentan 150 años de tradición! 🥃 #PiscoOrgulloChileno #FundoLosNichos #PiscoLosNichos #piscoespiritudelelqui @ptidelpisco #NuestraHistoria
fundolosnichos
280 likes • 8.7K views

Ask for Byron!

If available, request Byron as your guide for a fascinating, funny, and informative pisco experience. :star:

Tasting Included

Tours often include a tasting of 2-3 different piscos, sometimes with souvenir glasses. :wine_glass:

🍇 De la destilería más antigua (y misteriosa 👻) a una de las más nuevas del Valle del Elqui 🥂… así cerramos nuestra ruta pisquera con dos paradas que nos encantaron 🙌🏻🔥 📍 Precios de los tours: Fundo Los Nichos → $3.000 p/p Doña Josefa → Gratis 🙌 Entre túneles de piedra con leyendas de fantasmas 👻 y procesos 100% artesanales, descubrimos que cada parada tiene su propia historia, su propia magi...
viviendosingps
213 likes • 6.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tours Ahead

Secure your spot for a pisco tour and tasting by booking in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Embrace the Journey

The distillery is a bit off the beaten path; enjoy the scenic drive through the Elqui Valley. :car:

Ask for Byron!

If available, request Byron as your guide for a fascinating, funny, and informative pisco experience. :star:

Tasting Included

Tours often include a tasting of 2-3 different piscos, sometimes with souvenir glasses. :wine_glass:

Cash is King

While some places accept cards, having cash on hand is recommended for smaller purchases or tastings. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(309 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Destilería Los Nichos for its authentic pisco-making experience and knowledgeable guides, particularly praising Byron for his engaging tours. While the location is a bit further out, the historical significance and quality of the tasting make the journey well worth it. Some minor drawbacks include limited food options at the on-site cafe.

"This pisco distillery is a bit farther from the town center where there are distilleries that are frequented by most tourists, but several locals told us to go to Los Nichos and it was worth going just a little father down the road! The tour of the distillery took you through the whole distilling process and ended with a pisco tasting!"

Emily White

"Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable. He accommodated both English and Spanish speakers on our tour. We learned about the process of pisco making and tasted 3 different pisco products. We highly recommend going here!"

Terri Krevanko

"This morning we had an excellent distillery guide thanks to Byron, who really knows his stuff. He makes the process of differentiating and appreciating the variety of Pisco grapes, blends, aging simple to understand and fascinating and funny. We enjoyed our sampling so much and can't wait to go back. We highly recommend. Try and tour with Byron if he is available."

Anthony Goldstein

What People Like

Authentic pisco production
Knowledgeable and engaging guides
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited cafe offerings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Destilería Los Nichos is located in Paihuano, a bit outside the main tourist hubs of Pisco Elqui. You can reach it by car, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours from La Serena. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or joining a guided tour is often the most convenient way to visit. TikTok

While direct public transport to the distillery is scarce, you can take a bus towards Paihuano from La Serena or Vicuña and then arrange local transport or a taxi for the final stretch. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance. Reddit

The drive to Destilería Los Nichos is scenic, winding through the beautiful Elqui Valley. Expect picturesque landscapes and a sense of tranquility as you venture further from the main towns. Instagram

Yes, the Elqui Valley is home to several pisco distilleries. Nearby options include Pisquera Doña Josefa and Mistral, making it possible to create a pisco-themed day trip. Instagram

Absolutely! Many Elqui Valley tours include a stop at Destilería Los Nichos, often combined with other attractions like astrotourism or scenic drives. This can be a convenient way to experience the region. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices can vary, but recent information suggests a tour with tasting costs around $3,000 CLP per person. It's always best to confirm current pricing when booking. Instagram

It is highly recommended to book your tour in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak tourist season or on weekends, to ensure availability. Instagram

Tours typically include a guided walk through the distillery, explaining the pisco-making process, and conclude with a tasting of different pisco varieties. Some tours may even include souvenir glasses. Reddit

While some tours may accommodate English speakers, the primary language is Spanish. However, guides are often knowledgeable and can communicate key information effectively, even with language barriers. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour times and availability. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect an immersive experience detailing the traditional pisco-making process, from grape to bottle. You'll learn about the history, ingredients, and unique methods employed at Chile's oldest distillery. Instagram

The pisco tasting is a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to sample different varietals and appreciate the nuances of artisanal pisco. Guides like Byron are praised for making the tasting both educational and enjoyable. Reddit

Absolutely! The distillery itself is a historical landmark, dating back to 1868. You can explore its ancient stone tunnels and learn about the enduring traditions of pisco production. Instagram

The atmosphere is often described as charming and mysterious, with a strong sense of history and tradition. It offers a more authentic and less commercialized experience compared to some other distilleries. Instagram

Yes, you can typically purchase bottles of pisco directly from the distillery after your tour and tasting. It's a great opportunity to take home a piece of Elqui Valley tradition. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the focus is on pisco production, there might be a small cafe or snack bar on-site. However, reviews suggest that the cafe can be limited in its offerings, so it's best not to rely on it for a full meal. Reddit

For more substantial dining options, you'll need to head back towards Paihuano or explore the restaurants in nearby towns like Pisco Elqui or Vicuña. These areas offer a variety of local cuisine. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume any personal snacks outside the tasting areas. The focus of the visit is the pisco experience. Reddit

Many restaurants in the Elqui Valley offer traditional Chilean dishes that complement pisco. Look for places serving seafood, empanadas, or grilled meats for an authentic pairing. TikTok

The Elqui Valley offers hearty Chilean cuisine, often featuring fresh local produce, seafood from the nearby coast, and grilled meats. Don't miss trying local specialties. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the rustic charm of the historic distillery buildings, the ancient stone tunnels, and the picturesque Elqui Valley landscape surrounding the property. The pisco bottles themselves also make for great still-life shots. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed during the tour, especially in outdoor areas and the tasting room. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific instructions from your guide. Instagram

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the rustic textures of the distillery and the surrounding valley. Instagram

Yes, capturing the pisco tasting can make for engaging content. Photograph the different glasses, the colors of the pisco, and the overall convivial atmosphere. Reddit

The entrance to the distillery with its historic signage, the old stone walls, and any unique architectural features of the aging cellars are prime spots for memorable photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Destilería Los Nichos is primarily an adult-focused pisco distillery, families can still enjoy a visit. The scenic drive through the Elqui Valley offers beautiful views, and the historical aspect of the distillery might capture the interest of older children. Focus on the story of how pisco is made and the history of the place. TikTok

It's advisable to check if the distillery has any specific family-friendly policies or if certain parts of the tour are more suitable for younger visitors. Consider bringing snacks and drinks for children, as food options on-site may be limited. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Destilería Los Nichos offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the pisco and the historical significance. The tour price is quite reasonable, and often includes a tasting of multiple piscos for around $2,000-3,000 CLP. InstagramReddit

To maximize savings, consider visiting during weekdays when tours might be less crowded and potentially more flexible. Bringing your own water and snacks can also help keep costs down, though be mindful of where you consume them. If traveling from La Serena or Vicuña, exploring public transport options, though less direct, can be more budget-friendly than private car hire. Reddit

🥂 Pisco Enthusiasts

For true pisco aficionados, Destilería Los Nichos is a pilgrimage site. As the oldest distillery, it offers a unique opportunity to taste pisco made with time-honored methods and learn about its historical evolution. The knowledgeable guides, like Byron, provide in-depth insights into grape varietals, distillation techniques, and aging processes. Reddit

Pay close attention to the nuances of each tasting sample. Discuss the differences between single-varietal piscos and blends, and inquire about the aging process if applicable. This is your chance to deepen your appreciation for Chile's national spirit directly from a source steeped in tradition. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Pisco Production

Destilería Los Nichos stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of pisco making in Chile. Established in 1868, it is recognized as the oldest pisco distillery in the country, preserving artisanal methods passed down through generations. The distillery's location in the Elqui Valley is no accident; this region is renowned for its ideal climate and soil conditions for cultivating the Muscat grapes essential for high-quality pisco. Instagram

The process at Los Nichos remains largely unchanged, emphasizing a hands-on approach. Visitors can witness firsthand how grapes are harvested, fermented, and distilled using traditional copper stills. This commitment to heritage allows visitors to experience the authentic spirit of pisco, far from mass-produced alternatives. The unique stone tunnels on the property add an element of mystery and historical depth to the production narrative. Instagram

Understanding the Denominación de Origen (DO) for pisco is crucial when appreciating distilleries like Los Nichos. This designation ensures that only spirits produced in specific regions of Chile, using designated grape varietals and production methods, can be called 'pisco.' Los Nichos proudly upholds these standards, contributing to Chile's national pride in its signature spirit. Instagram

Navigating the Elqui Valley's Pisco Route

The Elqui Valley is a celebrated wine region, particularly famous for its pisco production. Destilería Los Nichos is a key stop on this 'pisco route,' offering a historical perspective that complements other, more modern distilleries in the area. While Los Nichos is a bit further out, the journey itself is part of the experience, showcasing the valley's natural beauty. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider combining Los Nichos with other notable pisco producers like Pisquera Doña Josefa or Mistral. This allows for a comprehensive tasting experience and a deeper understanding of the diverse styles of pisco available. Many local tour operators offer curated itineraries that include these stops, often alongside other Elqui Valley attractions such as astrotourism or solar-cooked restaurants. Instagram+1

Pro-tip: Many visitors recommend dedicating at least a full day, if not a weekend, to exploring the Elqui Valley and its pisco offerings. This allows ample time for travel between locations, thorough tours, and leisurely tastings without feeling rushed. Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Reddit

The Mystique of Los Nichos

Destilería Los Nichos is often described as having an air of mystery and charm, setting it apart from more commercialized tourist spots. This allure stems from its long history, its slightly secluded location, and the traditional, almost secretive, methods employed in its pisco production. The ancient stone tunnels, rumored to hold old secrets, contribute significantly to this enigmatic atmosphere. Instagram+1

Travelers often highlight the personal touch and knowledgeable guides, such as Byron, who make the experience engaging and memorable. His ability to explain the complexities of pisco making in a fascinating and humorous way elevates the visit beyond a simple distillery tour. This personal connection with the history and the people behind the spirit is a recurring theme in visitor feedback. Reddit

The 'mysterious charm' also extends to the overall experience of venturing off the beaten path. While some may find it a bit further to travel, the reward is a more authentic encounter with Chilean pisco heritage. It’s this blend of history, tradition, and a touch of the unknown that makes Destilería Los Nichos a unique and highly recommended destination. Instagram

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