Although first planted to vine in 1549 and an important source of wine during colonial times, wine grape production fell off centuries ago and the valley became known for its luscious tropical fruit, juicy table grapes for export, and the aromatic white muscat varieties for Pisco, Chile's favorite distilled spirit. Viticultural interest in the valley was renewed in the early 1990s when technological advances allowed for new uses of this semi-arid and relatively infertile land. With just 80–100 mm (3.2–4 in) of rainfall per year, drip irrigation is essential for managing Vitus vinifera vines. Despite its semi-arid, Mediterranean climate and high summer temperatures, the Limarí Valley is an oasis for fine wine production. It is a transversal valley, extending from the majestic Andes eastward to the Pacific Ocean, which allows the curious “Camanchaca” fog to blanket the area with cool air each morning, and coastal breezes to reach inland to maintain mild summer temperatures. Approximately 400 km (250 mi) north of Santiago and approaching the southerly edge of the Atacama Desert, the valley is home to a variety of national parks, international observatories, hot springs, archaeological sites, dazzling beaches, and the colonial city of La Serena, making it a favorite vacation spot as well as an exciting wine region.