Vina Maitia
VISIT IMPORTER'S WEBSITE
Country of Origin: Chile
Location: Maule Valley
People: David Marcel & Loreto Garau, Owners | David Marcel, Winemakers
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David Marcel is both a dynamic force and one of the most generous people in Chilean wine. Beyond being the voice behind Viña Maitia, he is a tireless advocate for the country’s small artisan producers, often championing others before himself. His own wines reflect this ethos: honest, understated, and irresistibly drinkable, offering remarkable value without compromise.
Originally from France, David arrived in Chile at just 22, fresh off the boat with a degree in enology from Montpellier and a desire to learn. He cut his teeth in large scale wineries before deciding to make Chile his permanent home. Two decades later he turned his attention to heritage varieties, principally País and Carignan, sourced from some of Maule’s most treasured old vines.
Viña Maitia is based in the Maule Valley, about 300 km south of Santiago. The region enjoys a sub humid Mediterranean climate, where hot summers are tempered by cool breezes from the Humboldt Current. This natural moderation lengthens the growing season and produces wines with bright, lifted acidity and a freshness that defines David’s style.
David has close relationships with the farmers of the vineyards he sources, some of which are over 120 years in age. These dry farmed, old vines are living relics of Chile’s viticultural history. While much of the country has been replanted with international grapes like Merlot and Chardonnay, David saw a different path: to protect these historic plantings and craft wines that speak of place.
In the cellar, he keeps the hand light with native fermentations, minimal sulfites, and élevage in neutral barrels or concrete, allowing the Maule Valley itself to remain the star.
Viña Maitia is a member of Chanchos Deslenguados.
Media Links
Punch: The Insider's Guide to Chile's Wine Renaissance
Wine & Spirits: Chile's Vino Pipeño
Amanda Barnes Blog: 10 Winemakers to Watch in Chile
Wine & Spirits: The New Chile