About this WINE
De Martino
De Martino is one of the most progressive and exciting names on the Chilean wine scene, deservedly named Chilean Winery of the year in 2011. Through a network of intellectual partnerships and vineyard acquisition, it has quickly built up a reputation for organic viticulture of the highest quality, farming from over 350 different vineyards.
The corporate vision focuses on sustainability, terroir, and, by logical extension, excellence. By concentrating on the very best sites for the varieties in question, be they in Limari, Elqui or Maipo, and by the development of a world class winemaking team, De Martino now sits at the very top of the Chilean vinous hierarchy.
The Alto Piedras vineyards make up 5 hectares of the sub-Denominacion of the Isla de Maipo, a de facto island as the vines are surrounded by two branches of the Maipo River. Two other self-evident truths are located in the nomenclature; firstly that the terrain is rocky, volcanic gravel to be precise and secondly that the vines are quite high up. Chile’s indigenous grape, Carmenère, is here aged for 18 months in new French oak.
Cinsault
Cinsault (pronounced "sin-so") is a red grape variety known for its versatility and contributions to various wine regions worldwide. It has a rich history, primarily in the Languedoc region of southern France, but it has spread to many other wine-producing areas due to its adaptability to different climates.
Cinsault grapes are medium-sized with thin skins, typically dark blue to black in colour. The vines are hardy and drought-resistant grapevine, making them suitable for warm and arid climates. They are particularly well-suited to Mediterranean regions and thrive in areas with hot summers.
While Cinsault is mainly used in red wine production, it is also sometimes used in rosé wines, adding light and fruity character. It is often blended with other grape varieties to enhance the wine profile.
The variety tends to exhibit a range of flavours, including red berries, cherries, and sometimes a hint of spices. When used in rosé wines, it can bring out more floral and watermelon notes.
Tannins are typically on the lower side, which can make them more approachable and enjoyable in their youth. The variety is often used in blends to soften and round out more tannic grape varieties.
Cinsault has been a key component in traditional blends in southern France, such as in Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. Over time, it has gained popularity in other wine regions as winemakers recognize its potential for producing high-quality wines.
Buying options
Add to wishlist
Description
The 2014 Cinsault Viejas Tinajas is also sold under the Secano Interior appellation, as the name Itata cannot be used for 'un-noble' grapes. The organically farmed grapes are sourced from an ungrafted, head-pruned vineyard, and they fermented destemmed in terracotta amphorae for 15 days -- then kept there for the winter and spring, and bottled unfiltered after malolactic with just a little sulphur.
The nose is somehow organic, mixing aromas of dried roses, decayed wild strawberries, raspberries and a hint of leaves; it is a little musky, cleaner than previous vintage with some earthy aromas that are focused and precise.
The palate is light to medium-bodied with moderate acidity, but the wine is still fresh. Ideal with white meat, charcuterie and lighter food. This should appeal to the 'natural' wine public, but also to the wider audience. I like this much better than previous years. 12,160 bottles produced.
91/100 Luis Gutierrez, eRobertParker.com #222 Dec 2015
wine at a glance
Delivery and quality guarantee