# Moretta Wines Carigno del Maule (2020)

- **Producer:** Ortúzar y Poblete produccion de vinos limitada
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Carignan
- **Region:** Maule Valley, Chile
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €39
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** wild herbs, raspberry, violet, cherry, blueberry, tobacco

## About this wine

Moretta Wines Carigno del Maule 2020 is a red wine from Chile's Maule Valley, produced by Ortúzar y Poblete produccion de vinos limitada under the Moretta Wines label. The wine is made from 100% Carignan grapes sourced from dry-farmed, 75-year-old vines grown in granitic soil. Moretta Wines is a small-scale producer founded by enologists Natalia Poblete and Maria José Ortúzar, with a philosophy of creating 'author's wines' that reflect their terroir. The Maule Valley is recognized for its old vine Carignan plantings, contributing to the unique character of wines from this region.

## Interesting facts

- Crafted from 75-year-old Carignan vines.
- Grapes grown on granitic soil with high quartz content.
- Minimal intervention winemaking philosophy.
- Founded by two women enologists and best friends.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and medium-plus body are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and proteins, helping to cut through fat and cleanse the palate. Its vibrant acidity can balance richer dishes, while its fruit and herbal notes can echo or contrast with specific ingredients.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Moretta Wines Carigno del Maule begins with destemming and selecting the grapes, with a portion lightly crushed. A cold maceration period of three days precedes alcoholic fermentation, which is conducted with native yeasts. Gentle pump-overs and controlled temperatures, peaking at 24-25°C, are employed. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for 20 months in fifth-use oak barrels. The overall approach emphasizes minimal intervention to highlight the character of the old vines and the Maule Valley terroir.