Vineyard:
The grapes are grown in two locations: Perdriel and Galtallary. The vineyards at Perdriel are situated at an altitude of 980 metres above sea level, near the banks of the Mendoza River. This proximity to the river provides high levels of water retention in the vines, which are over 80 years old. Yields range from between four to five tonnes per hectare. The region has a continental climate, with cool winters and mild summers, warm days and cooler nights.
The soils are sandy silt and rocky, with very good drainage, which also promotes root growth. Irrigation is via the traditional technique of flooding. These attributes give the Malbecs great intensity, notable red and black fruit aromas, minerality and a very gentle structure. The Galtallary vineyards sit at a higher altitude of 1,500 metres.
A continental climate prevails, with cold winters, mild summers and good diurnal temperature differences. The soils are loamy clay and calcareous with a depth of 80cm above a rocky subsoil. This soil has good drainage and here the vineyards are drip irrigated. Hand pruning and a green harvest takes place in both vineyards to ensure the optimum exposure to the sunlight, while concentrating the flavours in the berries.
Winemaking:
The grapes were carefully sorted, then vinified in small concrete tanks. 80% of the fruit was traditionally fermented at controlled temperatures of 25- 27°C, with three daily pump overs, followed by a maceration period of 25 days. 20% of the remaining fruit was vinified as whole clusters, obtaining a carbonic maceration.
Tasting Note:
A very stylish Malbec delivering enticing aromas of wild dark fruits, vanilla and chocolate on the nose. Complex and rich on the palate, with juicy black fruits, violet and black pepper enveloped in soft ripe tannins and an opulent finish.
