Chakana Ayni Malbec 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Uco Valley, located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, is one of Argentina’s premier wine regions. This wine comes from the Paraje Altamira appellation, situated at an altitude of 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level. The vineyard benefits from a cool climate and soils composed of sandy loam with calcareous gravels, which enhance the wine’s minerality and freshness.

Chakana is a pioneer in biodynamic viticulture, ensuring the health of its 120 hectares of vineyards while promoting sustainability. The Paraje Altamira vineyard, a hallmark of the estate, yields grapes with intense concentration and natural balance, ideal for producing age-worthy wines.

Winemaking

The Ayni Malbec is made with meticulous attention to detail, combining modern techniques with respect for traditional methods. The grapes are harvested manually, ensuring only the finest fruit is selected. After a four-day cold maceration, spontaneous fermentation occurs using native yeasts in stainless steel tanks.

The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged for 12 months in untoasted oak foudres of 3,000L and 5,000L capacity, preserving the purity and elegance of the fruit. The wine is unfiltered, allowing it to retain its natural character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with violet hints.
• Aroma: Complex and intense, featuring blackberries, cherries, and plums, complemented by delicate floral notes and subtle spices.
• Palate: Full-bodied and balanced, with vibrant acidity and polished tannins. Flavors of ripe black fruit and spices lead to a long and refined finish.

Did You Know?

The name Ayni reflects the Andean principle of reciprocity, symbolizing the give-and-take relationship between humans and nature. This philosophy underpins Chakana’s commitment to biodynamic farming and respect for the environment.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled ribeye steak with chimichurri sauce: The bold fruit and structure of the wine enhance the richness of the beef and the herbal brightness of the sauce.
• Lamb shank braised with rosemary: The wine’s spice and minerality complement the savory and aromatic qualities of the dish.
• Mushroom risotto: Its earthiness and balanced acidity harmonize with the creamy texture and umami of the risotto.
• Dark chocolate mousse: The wine’s fruit intensity and hints of spice pair beautifully with the bitterness and richness of dark chocolate.

History of Chakana

Founded in 2002 by the Pelizzatti family, Chakana takes its name from the Andean cross (Chakana), a symbol representing the connection between humanity and nature, as well as the balance between the physical, spiritual, and cosmic realms. This philosophy serves as the foundation of the winery’s ethos, emphasizing sustainability, harmony, and respect for the environment.

The Pelizzatti family, originally from the Valtellina region in northern Italy, has a rich winemaking heritage spanning several generations. They brought their expertise to Argentina with the goal of unlocking the potential of high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. Over time, they identified the Uco Valley as a key region capable of producing wines with exceptional purity and complexity, and they have dedicated themselves to refining their craft there ever since.

In 2012, Chakana began a transition to biodynamic farming, becoming a pioneer in Argentina for this approach. The estate received Demeter biodynamic certification and organic certification shortly thereafter, setting a benchmark for environmentally responsible winemaking in the country. Their innovative practices, such as the use of native yeasts, no filtration, and aging in concrete eggs, reflect their commitment to preserving the authenticity and vibrancy of their wines.

Today, Chakana is recognized as a leader in crafting minimal-intervention wines that honor the Andean landscape and its rich cultural heritage. Their approach to winemaking combines ancient traditions with modern techniques, delivering wines that not only showcase terroir but also respect the ecological balance of their surroundings.

Region and Vineyards

Chakana’s vineyards are primarily located in the prestigious Uco Valley, nestled at the foothills of the Andes. The winery sources its grapes from three key areas:

• Altamira: Situated at an altitude of 975 meters (3,200 feet), known for its calcareous soils and cool climate, producing wines with remarkable freshness and minerality.
• Gualtallary: A high-altitude region at 1,675 meters (5,500 feet), with stony, mineral-rich soils, yielding complex and aromatic wines.
• Agrelo: Located in Luján de Cuyo, this area offers warmer conditions and clay-rich soils, ideal for producing rich and concentrated reds.

All vineyards are cultivated with biodynamic and organic practices, ensuring that each wine is a true expression of its terroir.

Wine Range of Chakana

Chakana offers a diverse portfolio of wines, showcasing the unique characteristics of their vineyards:

• Estate Selection: Premium wines crafted from single vineyards, highlighting varietals like Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Torrontés.
• Ayni: Exceptional wines from the Altamira vineyard, reflecting the harmony between nature and winemaking.
• Singular: A series of innovative and unique wines, including orange wines and less conventional varietals.
• Nuna Vineyard: A range of organic wines emphasizing fruit-forward and approachable styles.
• Sobrenatural: Natural wines made with minimal intervention, focusing on purity and authenticity.

Did You Know?

Chakana was the first winery in Argentina to achieve Demeter certification for biodynamic viticulture, marking its dedication to sustainable practices. The jaguar on the label symbolizes the spiritual connection to the Andean culture and the preservation of the natural ecosystem.