De Martino Legado Pinot Noir 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Limarí Valley, part of Chile’s Coquimbo Region, lies just 21 kilometers (13 miles) from the Pacific Ocean. This proximity ensures a cool maritime climate, with consistent breezes that moderate temperatures, preserving the grapes’ natural acidity and vibrant flavors.

The vineyard, planted 20 years ago, is managed with VSP trellising and Guyot pruning systems to optimize canopy management. Its soils, composed of clay with a high percentage of calcium carbonate, provide excellent drainage and impart a distinctive minerality to the wine. This terroir is ideal for producing balanced, elegant Pinot Noir with complex aromatics and a fresh, structured palate.

Winemaking

The grapes for this wine were harvested in the third week of February 2020, ensuring optimal ripeness. The vinification process is focused on maintaining the purity and complexity of the fruit. Fermentation took place in small 1,000-liter vats, incorporating 30% whole clusters for added structure and aromatic depth.

The fermentation was spontaneous, with no added yeasts or enzymes, at an average temperature of 24°C (75°F). After fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in old Burgundian barrels, allowing for subtle integration of flavors while preserving the varietal character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Medium ruby red with brilliant clarity.
• Aroma: Complex and inviting, featuring notes of red berries, cherries, violets, and a hint of forest floor.
• Palate: Medium-bodied with vibrant fruit intensity and a crisp acidity. Fine, chalky tannins provide structure, leading to a long, lingering finish with a touch of minerality.

Did You Know?

De Martino is a pioneer in Chilean winemaking, recognized for its innovative approach and respect for tradition. The winery was the first in Chile to label a wine as Carmenere in 1996 and is renowned for its work in uncovering and revitalizing historic vineyards across the country.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Duck confit with red berry sauce: The wine’s red fruit notes complement the richness of the duck and the tartness of the sauce.
• Wild mushroom risotto: Its earthy complexity enhances the umami flavors of the dish.
• Grilled salmon with herbs: The wine’s acidity balances the richness of the fish and the herbal flavors.
• Roasted root vegetables with thyme: The wine’s freshness and minerality pair beautifully with the caramelized sweetness of the vegetables.

History of De Martino

Founded in 1934 by Italian immigrant Pietro De Martino Pascualone, the winery remains a family-run operation, now managed by the fourth generation of the De Martino family. Over the decades, De Martino has grown from a small Maipo Valley vineyard to a pioneering force in Chilean winemaking.

In the 1990s, De Martino became the first winery in Chile to label a wine as Carmenere, reintroducing this forgotten varietal to the global wine community. Since then, they have focused on exploring and revitalizing historic vineyards across Chile, ranging from the Itata Valley in the south to Limarí in the north.

Their philosophy emphasizes low-intervention winemaking and sustainability. The use of large foudres, natural fermentation, and native yeasts ensures that their wines reflect the purity of their terroirs.

Region and Vineyards

De Martino is based in Isla de Maipo, part of the renowned Maipo Valley, often referred to as the "Bordeaux of South America" for its excellence in producing structured reds, particularly Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Beyond Maipo, De Martino sources grapes from 15 distinct vineyard sites spread across Chile’s diverse terroirs, including:

• Itata Valley: Home to century-old bush vines of Cinsault and Muscat, offering bright, fresh wines.
• Limarí Valley: Known for its limestone soils, producing mineral-driven Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
• Maule Valley: The heart of dry-farmed Carignan and historic varietals, including their acclaimed Vigno.

De Martino’s vineyards are cultivated with sustainable practices, focusing on dry farming, organic methods, and minimal intervention to respect the natural environment.

Wine Range of De Martino

De Martino offers a diverse portfolio of wines, each emphasizing the unique characteristics of their vineyards:

• Single Vineyard Wines: Iconic wines like La Cancha (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Alto de Piedras (Carmenere) that highlight individual terroirs.
• Old Vine Heritage Series: Wines like Viejas Tinajas (Cinsault) and Vigno (Carignan) that honor Chile’s historic, dry-farmed vineyards.
• Legado Reserva: A range of expressive and elegant varietal wines, including Carmenere, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
• Estate Collection: Everyday wines that showcase De Martino’s dedication to quality and value.
• Special Projects: Unique bottlings, such as limited-edition amphora-aged wines, exploring ancient winemaking techniques.

Did You Know?

De Martino was the first winery in Latin America to become carbon neutral, a reflection of their deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Their use of amphorae, one of the oldest winemaking methods, ties them to Chile’s ancient traditions while pushing boundaries in modern winemaking.