Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Uco Valley, nestled at the foothills of the Andes, is one of Argentina’s premier wine regions. This wine is sourced from two exceptional vineyards: Altamira, situated at an elevation of 975 meters (3,200 feet), and Gualtallary, located at an impressive 1,675 meters (5,500 feet).

These high-altitude sites experience a cool climate, allowing for slow ripening, which preserves acidity and enhances the aromatic complexity of the grapes. The soils are predominantly sandy loam with calcareous gravels, offering excellent drainage and imparting a distinct minerality to the wine.

Winemaking

The blend consists of 70% Malbec, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc, highlighting the balance between fruit intensity, structure, and aromatic finesse.

The grapes undergo a two-day maceration on their skins in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats, followed by fermentation with indigenous yeasts to preserve the wine’s natural character. The wine is then aged for 10 months in oak barrels and concrete vats, ensuring an ideal balance between fruit purity and subtle oak influence. It is bottled unfiltered, maintaining its authenticity and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep red with violet hues.
• Aroma: A captivating bouquet of dark fruits, exotic spices, tobacco, and hints of mocha.
• Palate: Medium to full-bodied, with a refined structure and velvety tannins. Flavors of chocolate and dark berries linger on a long, persistent finish.

Did You Know?

The name Chakana is inspired by the Southern Cross constellation, which served as an agricultural calendar for ancient Andean civilizations. The jaguar depicted on the label symbolizes strength and the mystical connection to the Andean night sky.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled beef tenderloin with peppercorn sauce: The wine’s dark fruit and spice notes complement the richness of the beef and the warmth of the pepper.
• Wild mushroom stew: Its earthy and mineral-driven profile harmonizes with the umami flavors of the mushrooms.
• Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic: The wine’s structure and complexity enhance the savory and aromatic elements of the dish.
• Dark chocolate truffles: The mocha and chocolate flavors in the wine mirror the richness of the dessert.

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.