El Esteco Old Vines 1945 Torrontes 2023

Region and Vineyards

The wine is sourced from the Las Mercedes Estate, specifically Plot No. 15 in the Cafayate Valley, located in the province of Salta, Argentina. This region is renowned for its high-altitude vineyards, sitting at over 1,700 meters above sea level, which allow for slower ripening and greater flavor development.

The vineyard was planted in 1945, making these pergola-trained, own-rooted Torrontés vines 73 years old. The north-south row orientation ensures optimal sun exposure, while the sandy-loam soils with minimal fertility contribute to the wine’s finesse and minerality. Irrigated with meltwater from the Andes via surface furrows, the vines produce an average yield of 8,500 kg/ha.

Winemaking

The winemaking process emphasizes precision and respect for the vineyard’s unique character. Grapes are hand-harvested in February during the cool morning hours and carefully sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used.

Fermentation begins with 15% whole berries, which remain with the juice for the first third of the process, enhancing texture and complexity. The juice is then separated and completes fermentation with native yeasts, preserving the wine’s authenticity. The wine is bottled unfiltered and aged for 6–8 months in the bottle to refine its character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Light yellow with subtle greenish and steely highlights, with a faint haze from fine lees in suspension.
• Aromas: Delicate and refined, with vibrant citrus notes, elegant floral aromas, and a hint of minerality.
• Palate: Crisp and youthful, offering a silky texture with well-balanced acidity and sweetness. The wine is refreshing and easy to drink, with a mineral-driven finish.

Did you know?

The Torrontés vines used for this wine are pergola-trained, a traditional method that shields the fruit from intense sun exposure in high-altitude regions like Cafayate, preserving the freshness and aromatic complexity of the grapes.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Ceviche: Enhances the wine’s citrus freshness and vibrant acidity.
• Grilled prawns with lemon butter: Complements the wine’s floral and mineral notes.
• Goat cheese salad with fresh herbs: Balances the wine’s texture and refreshing profile.
• Empanadas filled with ricotta and spinach: Matches the wine’s crispness and subtle sweetness.

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.