The region is located at a latitude of 36°S, similar to southern Spain and Monterey in California. The majority of its vineyards lie between and above sea level with a moderate Mediterranean climate. It receives of rain per year, among the highest of all Chilean wine valleys, although winds prevent excessive humidity - a phenomenon that can also be observed in northern France. For most of the 20th century, the main varieties grown in the Bío Bío valley were Moscatel de Alejandria and Pais (known as Missiones in USA), but today, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are also grown throughout the valley.