MALBEC 2017
VINTAGE CHARACTERISTICS Similarly to the previous harvest, 2017 saw low yields, resulting from late frosts and drier-than-normal weather. During the winter of 2016, rainfall was lower than usual. However, heavy snowfall in the Andes Mountains helped replenish the water profiles of ur soils. The winter was marked by warmer-than-usual temperatures. Frosts during the spring reduced yields by 30%, thus providing higher quality to the lots that lost clusters per plant. The harvest season was short: Malbec was harvested earlier on the one hand, and there was lower production on the other. The reduced precipitation helped maintain health during these critical months. VINEYARD LOCATION Valle de Uco. Mendoza, Argentina. Elevation: 1,100 masl (3,600 fasl) HARVESTING Hand-picked into small, 12-kg plastic bins. In pursuit of excellent grape quality, we conduct a double selection of clusters and berries. SOIL Sandy loam of alluvial origin, with gravel in the subsoil and calcareous sediments. WINEMAKING Cold soaking at 8 °C for 10 to 15 days, followed by alcoholic fermentation in 225-liter French oak barrels, according to the principles of microvinification. We use 5% whole clusters during fermentation to enhance the wine´s freshness. Barrel rotation and manual pigeage are performed during this process. TASTING NOTES The wine displays depth in color and violet tones. It has good concentration due to the naturally obtained low yields of the vineyards. Its years-long aging adds complexity to the aromas, with well-integrated oak and the characteristics typical of our Malbec wines, reminiscent of fresh plums and subtle floral notes. The wine is sweet on the attack because of the balanced conditions of the vineyard. Its mature tannins complement the elegance of the wine´s nose, achieving great balance. AGEING 18 to 20 months in French oak barrels (60% first fill, 40% used). TECHNICAL TEAM José Mounier (Oenology) CONSULTANTS Michel Rolland - Marcelo Canatella SERVING TEMPERATURE Between 14 – 16°C |