History of Bodega Amalaya:
Bodega Amalaya was founded with a vision of exploring the untapped potential of Salta’s high-altitude vineyards. The name "Amalaya" is derived from the local indigenous culture, where it means “hope for a miracle.” This reflects the challenges and rewards of farming in the rugged terrain of the Calchaquí Valley, where winemaking is both an art and a test of resilience.
Bodega Amalaya is part of Hess Family Wine Estates, an international group of wineries that focus on quality, sustainability, and expressing the uniqueness of their regions. Under the leadership of this group, Amalaya has grown to produce distinctive wines that reflect the character of Salta’s extraordinary landscape.
Region and Vineyards:
The Calchaquí Valley, where Bodega Amalaya is located, is one of the highest wine-growing regions in the world, with vineyards situated at altitudes of 1,700 to 3,100 meters above sea level. The unique climatic conditions of the region, including intense sunlight, large diurnal temperature shifts, and rocky, well-drained soils, provide the ideal environment for producing wines of remarkable concentration and freshness.
The flagship vineyard of Bodega Amalaya is Finca San Isidro, where the rocky, alluvial soils contribute to the intensity and minerality found in their wines. The extreme altitude of these vineyards enhances the aromatic profiles of the wines while maintaining vibrant acidity, a hallmark of the region.
Wine Range:
Bodega Amalaya is known for its bold red blends and crisp whites, often featuring the region’s signature grape, Malbec, alongside other varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, and Torrontés. Their wines are characterized by their ability to express the unique terroir of Salta, with a focus on elegance, balance, and fruit purity.
- Amalaya Corte Único: This is the winery’s iconic wine, a blend that typically includes Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tannat. It is a rich, powerful wine, aged in French oak, with complex layers of dark fruit, spices, and minerality.
- Amalaya Malbec: A bright and expressive wine, showcasing ripe red and dark fruits with a smooth, velvety texture.
- Amalaya Torrontés: A fresh and aromatic white wine that captures the floral and citrusy characteristics of Argentina’s signature white grape, Torrontés.
Did you know?
The region of Salta, where Bodega Amalaya is located, experiences some of the most extreme winemaking conditions in the world. The combination of high altitude, arid climate, and rocky soils creates wines with intense concentration, making it a distinctive area for winemaking in Argentina. The Amalaya Corte Único is one of the region’s most celebrated wines, perfectly embodying the unique qualities of Salta’s terroir.