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Distillery · Vicuña, Coquimbo
Centro Turístico Capel
Visitor center of the cooperative Capel, on the outskirts of Vicuña, with the Museo del Pisco, a medal room and guided tours in Spanish and English, with tastings for adults.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Centro Turístico Capel
Capel, Cooperativa Agrícola Pisquera Elqui, brings together grape producers from the valley and runs a visitor center next to its plant on the outskirts of Vicuña, one of the first pisco distilleries in the Elqui. It is open every day for guided tours in Spanish and English.
Pisco is a brandy made by distilling wine from aromatic grapes, such as moscatel. The Museo del Pisco tells the story of the drink and shows how it was made: clay vessels for fermenting the grapes, old stills heated with eucalyptus wood, oak barrels for aging and the first bottles, alongside modern equipment.
The visit goes through the auditorium, the museum and the medal room, and ends with a tasting for those over 18. Other options include a cocktail workshop and a guided tasting of several piscos with regional products. Those who do not drink can join just the tour.
The strong sun and dry air of the Elqui concentrate the sugar in the grapes, the basis of the pisco tradition in the valley. Drink in moderation and never drive after tasting.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to an hour.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon. Tours depart in groups throughout the day, with little waiting; confirm before you go.
How to get there
It is about 1.5 km from the center of Vicuña. You can go on foot, by taxi or by car.
Tip
Try pisco neat and in cocktails to compare, and ask the guide to explain the difference between clear pisco and barrel-aged pisco. If you are driving you can opt for just the tour.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Centro Turístico Capel
What is pisco?
A brandy made by distilling wine from aromatic grapes, such as moscatel. It is the base of the pisco sour, a cocktail with lime, sugar and egg white.
Does the visit to Capel include a tasting?
Yes, for those over 18. Those who do not drink can do only the guided tour.
Does the Capel tour have an English guide?
Yes, tours are conducted in Spanish and English. Reservations are made through the tourist center channels.