Cinsault, Itata Valley, Chile

A spicy, sea-breeze of a red from one of the world’s most exciting winemakers. Leo Erazo travelled the world for 10 years researching soil science, geology and biodynamics before returning to Chile’s southern Itata Valley. There, surrounded by forest with the Pacific in view, he lovingly tends dry-farmed vines up to hundreds-of-years-old on volcanic and granitic soils. This bright, punchy and floral Cinsault comes from a tiny, biodynamically farmed .6 hectare plot of 65-year-old vines. Fermented in traditional cement vat for 14 months to add charming, light-on-its-feet complexity. Leo’s aim is to “produce wines with character, fresh with layers, that speak about hills, breeze and dry lands, that they shout out loud ITATA!!!” He has done it. We were beyond inspired during our visit in early 2024 and it is a dream to have this wine to share with you.