Antiyal "Kuyen" Valle del Maipo Tinto 2020

This blend of 74% Syrah, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Carmenere and 7% Petit Verdot is racy and dry, with roasted peppers, dark wild berries, vibrant fruit, cedar and dried earth, plus a nice, subtle, spicy edge. Lots of cherries and berries, creme de cassis, autumn spices and violets on the full-bodied palate marked by fresh, fine-grained, oaky tannins. Long and juicy finish. Expressive. Loves to breathe. 

The Antiyal project started in 1996 when winemaker Alvaro Espinoza planted two acres of vines around his Maipo Valley home. Antiyal means "sons of the sun" in Mapuche (native Chilean). Since then, he has championed the benefits of biodynamics, of which the moon plays a large part. "Kuyen" is the Mapuche word for moon, and it is the deep respect Alvaro has for the ancient farmers that have followed the moon cycles for centuries that inspires this wine. This Syrah-based blend is a tribute to those wise people and their farming methods.

The Antiyal estate is known as one of the leading organic and biodynamic producers in the country. Originally a small, "garage" winery, it has grown to a larger, but still personable size, producing wines from Carménère, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Garnacha. All grapes are organically and biodynamically grown with balanced irrigation and careful canopy management. The farm is dedicated to 50% vineyards, and the rest to livestock and other crops, creating a diverse environment. They treat each parcel with minimal intervention, and create distinct wines as a result. Certified organic by Ecocert Biodynamic by Demeter.