El Esteco

El Esteco, located in the Calchaquí Valley, Salta, Argentina, is a pioneer in high-altitude winemaking. With a rich heritage dating back to 1892, the winery is celebrated for crafting exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroirs of one of the world’s highest wine regions.

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.

 
Argentina
91 James Suckling
El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec 2021
El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec 2021
El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec is a vibrant expression of Argentina’s high-altitude terroirs, offering rich aromas, concentrated flavors, and a silky structure, crafted as a tribute to the winery’s pioneering founder.
Don David Reserve Malbec 2021
20,50 €
Argentina
93 Robert Parker
El Esteco Old Vines 1945 Torrontes 2022
El Esteco Old Vines 1945 Torrontes 2022
El Esteco Old Vines 1945 Torrontés is a tribute to Argentina’s viticultural heritage, crafted from 73-year-old vines in the iconic Cafayate Valley, delivering a wine of exceptional delicacy and balance.
Old Vines 1945 Torrontes 2022
26,90 €
Argentina
90 Robert Parker
El Esteco Old Vine 1946 Malbec 2022
El Esteco Old Vine 1946 Malbec 2022
El Esteco Old Vines 1946 Malbec is a celebration of history, crafted from vines planted over 70 years ago in the iconic Cafayate Valley, delivering exceptional intensity, complexity, and elegance.
Old Vine 1946 Malbec 2022
27,90 €