Producer Profile
Catalina Ugarte
Catalina Ugarte, a young winemaker with training from Italy, Spain, and Chile, embraces Chile's viticultural heritage by focusing on the unique País grape and ancient vines of the Itata Valley. Her País wine, crafted from centenarian vines, and the intriguing Pet Nat from 50-year-old vines, tell stories of hand-harvested grapes, native yeast fermentations, and minimal intervention. These wines represent a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation, making them perfect for a Thanksgiving toast.
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Where The Wines Come From
Valle del Itata
Nestled within the rolling hills and lush valleys of Chile's Biobío Region, the Valle del Itata is a haven for natural winemaking, where tradition meets innovation in a landscape of breathtaking beauty. Here, amidst ancient vines and volcanic soils, winemakers embrace a philosophy of minimal intervention, working in harmony with nature to craft wines of purity and expression. Indigenous grape varieties like Pais and Moscatel thrive in this cool-climate region, yielding wines that reflect the unique terroir and heritage of the Valle del Itata. With a focus on hand-harvesting, spontaneous fermentation, and aging in old barrels or clay vessels, Itata's natural wines exhibit a sense of authenticity and place, with flavors ranging from vibrant red fruits to floral and mineral notes. This dynamic wine scene, fueled by a passion for sustainability and a deep respect for the land, continues to captivate wine enthusiasts seeking the true essence of Chilean winemaking.
