Leoncio

Leoncio isn't just a winery, it's a champion for sustainable viticulture and rejuvenation in Chile's Itata Valley. Founded on principles of organic and regenerative farming, Leoncio's dedication goes beyond producing delicious wines. They're reviving the Itata Valley's unique Pais grape and showcasing its potential.

Unlike many large-scale producers, Leoncio prioritizes quality over quantity. Their philosophy emphasizes working in harmony with nature. They avoid synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, fostering a healthy and biodiverse ecosystem in their vineyards. Additionally, Leoncio collaborates with local families, converting their existing Pais vines to these sustainable methods. This not only benefits the environment but also helps preserve the Itata Valley's viticultural heritage.

The result of Leoncio's meticulous approach is a distinctive expression of Pais. Grown in healthy soils teeming with life, Leoncio's Pais grapes develop a depth of character that mass-produced wines often lack. Expect fresh red fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a touch of spice, all reflecting the unique terroir of the Itata Valley. By combining innovative sustainable practices with respect for tradition, Leoncio is not only making delicious wines, they're shaping the future of the Itata Valley and the Pais grape.

About the Winemaker

Leoncio

Leoncio isn't just a winery; it's a pioneer in sustainable viticulture and rejuvenation within Chile's Itata Valley. Founded on principles of organic and regenerative farming, Leoncio is more than just about crafting exquisite wines; it's about revitalizing the unique Pais grape and showcasing its true potential.

Diverging from the practices of many large-scale producers, Leoncio places quality above quantity, prioritizing a harmonious relationship with nature. Their ethos involves steering clear of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, nurturing a vibrant and biodiverse ecosystem in their vineyards. Moreover, Leoncio collaborates with local families, assisting in transitioning their existing Pais vines to sustainable methods.

Leoncio Winemaker - Leonidas Fernandez

The Region

Itata Valley, Chile

Nestled in the heart of Chile, the Itata Valley is a region steeped in history and tradition, increasingly drawing attention for its embrace of natural winemaking practices. With its cool climate, granite soils, and old-vine vineyards, Itata offers ideal conditions for cultivating indigenous grape varieties such as Pais, Muscat, and Cinsault. Winemakers here are dedicated to sustainable viticulture, practicing organic and biodynamic farming methods to nurture the vines and preserve the region's unique terroir. In the cellar, minimal intervention is prized, with spontaneous fermentations and aging in neutral vessels allowing the true expression of the grapes and terroir to shine through. The resulting natural wines from Itata are a reflection of the region's rich winemaking heritage and rugged beauty, with their vibrant flavors, elegant textures, and a sense of place that captures the essence of Chile's winemaking tradition.