2016 De Martino Cinsault Viejas Tinajas Chile

WSI93 WA91 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.