2020-C A Los Vinateros Bravos 'Granitico' Cinsault, Itata Valley, Chile (750ml)
About the Icons
A Monthly Wine Club Selection
The Itata Valley was the first settlement of the Spanish Conquistadors during the 16th century. To keep up the necessary supply of wine for these new European settlers, they brought their own grape vines. And so, the first propagation of some of Chile’s earliest vineyards began. Today the Itata Valley is being rediscovered and is one of Chile’s most exciting wine regions.
Sourced from 60-year-old dry-farmed Cinsault vines that thrive in Itata's cold climate and granitic soils. The grapes were hand-harvested and fermented in concrete with native yeasts (20% whole cluster). Maceration lasted nearly 3 weeks. The wine was then basket pressed before being aged in concrete for 18 months. There was a very coarse filtration, but wine was not fined and only a touch of SO2 was added at bottling. The results are pure and exhilarating. Deep ruby hue. Earthy aromas mingled with red berries and a touch of crushed minerals. The palate shows tart cherries, macerated strawberries, red licorice, and a sultry, floral undertone. The finish is slight spicy, persistent and ends with a slight touch of graphite and pleasant, dusty tannins. Leonardo Erazo is a rare talent, and the diversity of experience and knowledge he possesses on all subjects surrounding wine is impressive. Ater graduating from the University of Chile with a degree in Agronomy and Enology, he traveled the world for a decade working for various estates doing research in soil science, geology and biodynamics. Leo’s minimalistic style of winemaking combines modern techniques with established traditions, and requires exceptional care and attention to detail. While employing biodynamic principles, he also relies on the advice of the experienced local farmers who have been naturally farming this region for centuries. In the cellar he utilizes native yeasts, elevage in very old barrels and nothing more than minimal additions of sulfur just before bottling.