El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Calchaquí Valley, located in the province of Salta in northern Argentina, is renowned for its breathtakingly high-altitude vineyards, situated at over 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) above sea level. This region is characterized by its extreme conditions, including intense sunlight, low humidity, and significant day-night temperature variations, which enhance the grapes’ aromatic intensity and acidity.

The soils of the Calchaquí Valley are poor and alluvial, composed of sandy and rocky substrates that naturally limit vine vigor, producing low yields of highly concentrated fruit. These conditions allow the Malbec grapes to develop exceptional depth and complexity. The valley’s distinct terroir, combined with the dry climate and pure Andean meltwater irrigation, makes it one of the most unique wine-producing areas in the world.

Winemaking

Don David Reserve Malbec is crafted from 100% Malbec grapes, hand-harvested to ensure only the finest fruit is used. After harvest, the grapes underwent a meticulous pre-fermentation maceration at 8°C to extract maximum color and aromas. The fermentation process utilized a combination of native and selected yeasts, carefully monitored to retain the wine’s regional character.

Following fermentation, the wine underwent an extended post-fermentation maceration of 30 days, which enhanced the wine’s texture and depth. The wine was then aged for 12 months, with 70% of the wine maturing in American and French oak barrels and the remaining 30% in stainless steel tanks and concrete pools. This precise aging process balanced the wine’s bold flavors with a polished structure, allowing the oak influence to integrate seamlessly into the fruit-driven profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep red with violet undertones, brilliant and vibrant.
• Aromas: Inviting notes of plum jam, raisins, tobacco, and chocolate, complemented by soft hints of oak and spice.
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied, with sweet, supple tannins and flavors of dried fruits, chocolate, and a subtle smokiness. The finish is long and persistent, leaving an elegant impression.

Did you know?

The Don David range is named after David Michel, one of the visionary founders of El Esteco, who pioneered winemaking in the Calchaquí Valley and helped establish the region as a premier wine destination.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Argentinean asado (grilled ribeye steak): The bold flavors of the beef match the wine’s richness and complement its smoky notes.
• Lamb stew with rosemary and root vegetables: Enhances the wine’s depth and soft tannins.
• Hard cheeses like Manchego or aged Gouda: Balances the wine’s robust structure and enhances its fruity and chocolaty notes.
• Dark chocolate tart with raspberry coulis: Highlights the wine’s subtle sweetness and dark fruit flavors.

History of El Esteco

The story of El Esteco began in 1892, when David Michel and Gabriel Michel, two French immigrants, founded the winery in the remote and pristine Calchaquí Valley. Their vision was to harness the extreme conditions of this high-altitude region to produce wines of unparalleled character and depth.

Over the decades, El Esteco has remained a cornerstone of Salta’s viticulture, contributing to the global recognition of the Calchaquí Valley as a premier wine-producing region. Today, the winery spans over 1,000 hectares, of which approximately 500 hectares are under vine, planted with both local and international varieties. Under the stewardship of a dedicated team of winemakers, El Esteco has continued to innovate while respecting its historical roots, producing wines that embody both tradition and modernity.

Region and Vineyards

The Calchaquí Valley, located at altitudes of over 1,700 meters above sea level, is one of the world’s highest wine-producing regions. This unique location offers extreme growing conditions, including intense sunlight, cool nights, and minimal rainfall, resulting in wines of remarkable aromatic intensity, vibrant acidity, and robust structure.

El Esteco’s vineyards feature a variety of soils, from alluvial and sandy-loam to rocky terrains, which are meticulously managed to match the characteristics of each grape variety. The estate practices sustainable farming methods, utilizing meltwater from the Andes for irrigation and preserving the valley’s natural ecosystem. These practices ensure the grapes express the purity and authenticity of the Calchaquí Valley terroir.

Wine Range of El Esteco

El Esteco is renowned for its diverse and high-quality wine range, which reflects the unique attributes of its vineyards:

• Old Vines Series: Limited-edition wines from historic vineyards, such as Old Vines 1946 Malbec and Old Vines 1945 Torrontés, showcasing Argentina’s viticultural heritage.
• Don David Reserve: A tribute to the winery’s founder, offering varietal expressions like Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Torrontés, known for their balance and elegance.
• El Esteco Blend de Extremos: Crafted from grapes grown in extreme conditions, these wines highlight the diversity of high-altitude terroirs.
• Altimus: The pinnacle of El Esteco’s portfolio, representing the best fruit and winemaking expertise in blends of exceptional depth and complexity.

Did you know?

The Calchaquí Valley, home to El Esteco, boasts vineyards that are among the highest in the world, with some parcels reaching altitudes of over 3,000 meters. These extreme conditions create wines with unmatched intensity, freshness, and character.