Chakana Estate Selection Malbec 2019

Chakana Estate Selection Malbec 2019

 

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Chakana
Estate Selection Malbec 2019
  • Vintage : 2019
  • Country : Argentina
  • Region : Mendoza
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Fruity Medium Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14,5°
  • Grappes : 100% Malbec

With its intense purple hue, rich aromatics of plums, brambly berries, and violets, and a seamless balance of velvety tannins and fresh acidity, this wine is a true reflection of Andean terroir.

Experts Score Vintage
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 94 2019
DCT Decanter 93 2019
JS James Suckling 91 2019
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Uco Valley, located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, is one of Argentina’s premier wine regions, known for its high-altitude vineyards and diverse microclimates. This Malbec is sourced from two exceptional sites:

  • Altamira, situated at an elevation of 3,200 feet (975 meters), characterized by its cool nights and calcareous soils.
  • Gualtallary, a high-altitude vineyard at 5,500 feet (1,675 meters), known for its stony, mineral-rich soils and dramatic diurnal temperature shifts, which enhance the concentration and freshness of the grapes.

The soils in both sites are sandy loam with calcareous gravels, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s hallmark minerality. Chakana’s commitment to organic and biodynamic practices ensures the health of the vineyard ecosystem and enhances the wine’s terroir expression.

Winemaking

This Malbec undergoes fermentation with indigenous yeasts, ensuring a natural and authentic representation of the fruit. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months using two methods:

  • 70% in new and used French oak barrels, adding subtle complexity and structure.
  • 30% in concrete vats, preserving the wine’s freshness and fruit purity.

The wine is unfiltered, maintaining its natural depth and integrity, with minimal intervention throughout the winemaking process.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Deep purple, vibrant and intense, showcasing the typical intensity of Malbec.
  • Aroma: A fragrant bouquet of plums, brambly berries, spices, and floral hints of iris and violets.
  • Palate: Full-bodied and richly textured, with concentrated fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and a refreshing finish marked by minerality and fine acidity.

Did You Know?

The name Chakana refers to the Southern Cross constellation, which served as an agricultural calendar for ancient Andean civilizations. The jaguar depicted on the label was revered as the "lord of the starred night" and symbolizes the wild spirit of the Andes.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Grilled Argentine steak with chimichurri: The bold flavors of the wine complement the richness of the beef and the herbaceous chimichurri.
  • Roast duck with plum sauce: The wine’s plum and berry notes echo the fruity richness of the sauce.
  • Mushroom and truffle risotto: Its earthy and mineral profile pairs beautifully with the umami flavors of truffle.
  • Aged Manchego cheese: The wine’s structure and complexity balance the nutty and tangy flavors of the cheese.

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.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 94 Points (2019)
The 2019 Malbec Estate Selection is a combination of grapes from different GIs in the Uco Valley (55% Altamira, 25% Gualtallary and 20% Los Chacayes,) of which 70% is aged in used French barrels. A vivid violet in color. The nose offers precise and attractive notes of fresh, sour cherry and plum with expressive hints of lavender, violet and thyme. The ripeness of the grapes in each region was judged perfectly for the style. In the mouth, it is a compendium of flavors gently marshalled by fine, reactive tannins and a chalky texture that ensures good performance in the bottle. With juicy, well-integrated freshness and fruity flavor at the back of the mouth, this is a wine that has you reaching for another glass. An accomplished take on an Uco Valley Malbec. - Joaquín Hidalgo

Decanter (DCT) : 93 Points (2019)
Ethereal nose with high class aromas of cigar box, smoke and dried fruits. Beautiful palate power with fantastic elegance.

James Suckling (JS) : 91 Points (2019)
Fragrant aromas of violets, lavender, wild herbs, blueberries and citrus zest. It’s medium-bodied with fine, tight-grained tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and floral. Drink now.

Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend 2020
Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend 2020
Chakana
Estate Selection Red Blend 2020
RP
90
VN
94
TA
92
Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend is an expressive and harmonious wine from Argentina’s Uco Valley, crafted from a blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. This biodynamic wine reflects the purity and complexity of high-altitude Andean terroirs.
26,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana Ayni Malbec 2020
Chakana Ayni Malbec 2020
Chakana
Ayni Malbec 2020
TA
94
JS
93
VN
94
Chakana Ayni Malbec is a profound and elegant wine from the renowned Paraje Altamira in the Uco Valley, Argentina. Crafted with biodynamic principles, it reflects the harmony of nature and winemaking, offering a true expression of its Andean terroir.
33,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Chakana
Estate Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
WE
91
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional wine from the Uco Valley in Argentina, showcasing the boldness and elegance of 100% organic Cabernet Sauvignon cultivated in high-altitude vineyards.
24,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana Estate Selection Chardonnay 2020
Chakana Estate Selection Chardonnay 2020
Chakana
Estate Selection Chardonnay 2020
WE
88
Chakana Estate Selection Chardonnay is a vibrant and complex white wine from the Altamira vineyard in the Uco Valley, Argentina, reflecting the elegance of high-altitude terroir.
20,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Franc 2021
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Franc 2021
Chakana
Estate Selection Cabernet Franc 2021
TA
91
JS
91
JD
89
Chakana Estate Selection Cabernet Franc is a sophisticated and expressive wine from the Gualtallary region in the Uco Valley, Argentina. This 100% Cabernet Franc showcases the biodynamic principles and high-altitude terroir that define Chakana’s winemaking philosophy.
24,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana 20 Vueltas al Sol BIO Malbec 2020
Chakana 20 Vueltas al Sol BIO Malbec 2020
Chakana
20 Vueltas al Sol BIO Malbec 2020
Chakana 20 Vueltas al Sol BIO Malbec is an exquisite and eco-friendly wine, offering a vibrant expression of 100% organic Malbec from the Paraje Altamira appellation in the Uco Valley, Argentina. Its bold flavors and elegant structure make it a true celebration of sustainable winemaking.
49,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Chakana Singular Orange Torrontes 2023
Chakana Singular Orange Torrontes 2023
Chakana
Singular Orange Torrontes 2023
JS
91
VN
89
TA
92
Chakana Singular Orange Torrontés is an intriguing and unique orange wine from Argentina’s Uco Valley, crafted with extended skin contact to highlight the complexity and depth of the Torrontés varietal.
22,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
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24,90 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
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