Laurent Clandestino Petit Verdot 2022

Laurent is a winery project founded by Damien and Lorena, a couple with a rich background in winemaking. Damien, a French winemaker, previously led his family estate, Chateau L'Escart in Bordeaux, for 12 years. Originally from Chile, Lorena joined Chateau L'Escart and eventually collaborated with Damien. Their shared passion for winemaking led them to embark on a new journey together in Chile.

In 2008, they established their first vineyard in Chile, embracing the stunning landscape and potential of the Maipo Valley. The couple's vision was to produce wines that reflect their combined expertise and the unique terroir of their chosen region. They brought a strict French approach to quality control and the richness of Chilean terroir. This fusion of French winemaking tradition and Chilean viticulture is evident in their wines, which are crafted to express the vineyard's natural characteristics.

Their winery, Viña Laurent, reflects a blend of cultures, combining Damien's French heritage and Lorena's Chilean roots. The wines they produce are a testament to their journey and partnership, combining traditional winemaking methods with a focus on sustainability and environmental respect.

The Itata Valley, located in the Biobío region of southern Chile, is one of the oldest wine-growing areas in the country. Viticultural activities date back over 400 years. This region, stretching approximately 100 kilometers between San Carlos and Bulnes, features a unique microclimate and diverse terroirs that make it a significant part of Chile's wine heritage.

Historically, Itata Valley was crucial in developing Chilean wine, with vineyards planted by Spanish colonists in the mid-16th century. These early plantings were predominantly País and Muscat of Alexandria, varieties that remain prominent today. For a significant period, the valley was known for producing bulk wines. However, in recent years, there's been a resurgence of interest in the old vines and traditional varieties, leading to a renaissance of high-quality winemaking in the region.

The climate in Itata is influenced by the humid Mediterranean, with cool, windy summers and wet winters. This climate and the valley's granitic and sandy soils allow for a slow and balanced grape maturation process. Dry-farming techniques and old bush vines contribute to producing wines with concentrated flavors and distinct character.

Modern winemaking in Itata Valley blends traditional methods with innovative practices. Winemakers are increasingly focusing on low-intervention techniques, producing natural and orange wines. These wines, often fermented in open vessels and amphorae, showcase the authentic expression of the region's terroir.

Notable wineries in the Itata Valley include De Martino, known for their old-vine Cinsault, and Viña Morandé, which emphasizes the region's ancestral varieties. These wineries, along with others like A Los Viñateros Bravos, are pivotal in bringing the unique wines of Itata to global recognition.

The cultural landscape of Itata Valley is equally rich, with a vibrant local arts scene and culinary traditions that complement its winemaking. The local markets in Chillán are renowned for their fresh produce, and traditional Chilean asados (barbecues) are a culinary highlight.