Maitia 'Weon' Carignan, Maule Valley, Chile

Dark blackberry, cassis, and earthy spice unfold immediately in the 2022 Maitia 'Weon' Carignan, a vibrant and deeply expressive old-vine Carignan that captures the rustic charm and energy of Chile’s Maule Valley. Produced entirely without oak from organically farmed bush vines planted around 1960, this wine reflects David Marcel’s dedication to preserving heritage vineyards and crafting honest, terroir-driven wines with purity, freshness, and structure.

Product Details:

• Winemaker & Owner: David Marcel
  
• Variety: 100% Carignan
  
• Alcohol: 13.5% ABV
  
• Cases Produced: 560
  
• Farming Practices: Organic, dry farmed
  
• Vine Age: Planted circa 1960
  
• Soil Type: Granitic
  
• Training System: Bush vine
  
• Yield: 3.2 tons per acre
  
• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation in large cement vats
  
• Stem Inclusion: None
  
• Élevage: 4 months in concrete vat
  
• Filtration: Crossflow filtered
  
• Oak Usage: Unoaked

Sensory Description:

The nose opens with concentrated aromas of blackberry, cassis, and black cherry layered with cinnamon, cedar, and cracked black pepper. Beneath the dark fruit lies an earthy core of mushroom, dried herbs, and granitic minerality that gives the wine impressive depth and savory complexity. The palate is medium-bodied yet firmly structured, with vibrant acidity carrying flavors of ripe black fruit, forest floor, spice, and subtle smoke. Without the influence of oak, the wine’s fruit purity and mineral expression remain vivid and transparent. Fine but assertive tannins provide grip and tension through a long, energetic finish that balances rusticity with freshness.

Winemaker’s Background:

Viña Maitia was founded by French-born winemaker David Marcel, who arrived in Chile after studying winemaking in Montpellier and eventually made the country his permanent home. After years working with larger wineries, Marcel shifted his focus toward preserving Chile’s historic old-vine vineyards, particularly País and Carignan planted generations ago in Maule. Known for his humility and tireless advocacy for artisan producers, Marcel has become an influential voice within Chile’s natural and heritage wine movements. His wines emphasize drinkability, transparency, and minimal intervention while showcasing the authenticity and cultural significance of old-vine Chilean viticulture.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 15–17 °C in a Burgundy or universal red wine glass. Pairs exceptionally well with grilled lamb, roasted mushrooms, smoky sausages, lentil dishes, barbecue, or rustic stews. The wine’s bright acidity and earthy structure also make it an excellent companion for charcuterie and aged cheeses.