Gonzalez Bastias, Tierra Madre, Maule Valley

The grapes for this wine are from 200 years old bush vines growing on their own roots. They’re dry farmed. Soil is river sand on granitic bedrock brought down by the River Maule. The vineyards are 44km inland so get some fresh air from the Pacific, which dries the vines and keeps them healthy. The total vineyard consists of 4.5 hectares.

The farming is uncertified organic. They work sustainably creating a balanced ecosystem, vineyards are also home to fruit trees and wildlife, sheep control the grass and provide natural fertiliser.

Fermentation is with native yeasts in open lagares, during this time the grapes are trodden by foot. The wine is then aged for 3 months in old Chilean Raulí oak foudre, before hand-bottling without filtration and with a small amount of sulphur.

Aromatic with ripe orchard fruit and blossom on the nose. Refreshing acidity and a long finish.