Zuccardi Aluvional Altamira Malbec 2018

Region and Vineyards

The Paraje Altamira area is located in the San Carlos district within the Valle de Uco, Mendoza. These vineyards, at an altitude of 1,050 to 1,150 meters (3,445 to 3,773 feet), are set on a flat plain south of the Tunuyán River. The region occupies the highest part of an extensive alluvial fan, contributing a unique cool temperate climate with high thermal amplitude. These conditions foster balanced ripening, enhancing the natural acidity and structure of the Malbec grapes.

Altamira’s soils are characterized by large granite stones and gravel layers covered with calcium carbonate, adding a pronounced minerality to the wine. Massive rocks, some weighing up to 20 tons, are scattered throughout the vineyard, adding complexity to the soil profile. This distinct terroir imparts a mineral backbone and depth to the Malbec, making it an exceptional representation of high-altitude Mendoza wines.

Winemaking

Zuccardi Aluvional Paraje Altamira Malbec is crafted with a careful, terroir-focused approach. The grapes are moved by gravity to maintain their integrity, and fermentation is conducted in concrete vessels using native yeasts, allowing the wine to express the unadulterated characteristics of Altamira’s soils. The wine is then aged in concrete tanks, a choice that enhances the purity of the fruit and preserves the mineral nuances imparted by the region’s unique alluvial soils.

This meticulous process results in a 100% Malbec with 14% alcohol, 5.74 g/L total acidity, and a pH of 3.64, emphasizing the natural elegance, balance, and structure of the terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep violet, with a vivid intensity indicative of its high-altitude origins.
• Aroma: Complex and expressive, showcasing notes of blackberries, violets, and subtle hints of earthy minerals, alongside delicate herbal undertones.
• Palate: Full-bodied with refined tannins, balanced acidity, and a pronounced mineral streak. Layers of dark fruit and a long, persistent finish highlight the wine’s depth and elegance, capturing the distinct character of Paraje Altamira.

Did you know?

The Aluvional series represents Zuccardi’s dedication to exploring Mendoza’s diverse alluvial soils, particularly in the Uco Valley. Each wine in the collection is a study of specific vineyard plots, chosen to reveal the region's natural identity. For this Altamira Malbec, the soils—shaped by ancient river flows—contribute a unique mineral quality that Zuccardi captures without oak influence, letting the terroir take center stage.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Porcini Mushrooms with Truffle Oil: The earthy flavors of mushrooms and the subtle truffle oil complement the wine’s mineral notes and structured tannins.
• Argentinian Empanadas with Lamb and Rosemary: The rich lamb filling and herbal rosemary balance the wine’s dark fruit and refined tannins, enhancing the savory elements.
• Beef Tartare with Capers and Chives: The freshness of beef tartare pairs well with the wine’s minerality, while capers and chives bring out the wine’s subtle herbal notes.
• Aged Gouda or Parmigiano-Reggiano: The nutty, intense flavors of aged cheese resonate with the wine’s depth, while the structured tannins provide a balancing contrast.

History of Zuccardi

The story of Familia Zuccardi began in 1963 when Engineer Alberto “Tito” Zuccardi planted the family's first vineyard in Mendoza to demonstrate his innovative irrigation system. This vineyard not only marked the beginning of Zuccardi's journey in viticulture but also sparked a passion for winemaking that would be passed down through generations​​.

In 1985, Tito's son, José Alberto Zuccardi, took over the management of the family business. Under his leadership, the winery expanded its operations and gained international recognition. José Alberto's innovative spirit and dedication to quality have made him one of Argentina's most prominent wine ambassadors​​.

Today, the winery is led by Sebastián Zuccardi, the third generation of the family. Sebastián has continued to push the boundaries of winemaking by exploring the diverse terroirs of the Uco Valley and focusing on sustainability. In 2009, he founded the Research & Development department to study the region's soils and climate, aiming to produce wines that truly reflect their place of origin​​.

Region and Vineyards

Familia Zuccardi's vineyards are located in the Uco Valley, a region known for its high-altitude climate, complex soils, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

The valley's soils are of alluvial origin, formed by materials that descended from the Andes Mountains millions of years ago. These soils are diverse and heterogeneous, providing a unique environment for viticulture​​.

The vineyards are situated at various altitudes, ranging from 1,050 meters to 1,400 meters above sea level, which allows for a wide range of microclimates and soil types. Some of the key vineyards include:

• Finca Canal Uco: Located in Paraje Altamira, known for its alluvial soils with large granite stones covered in calcium carbonate.
• Finca Piedra Infinita: Also in Paraje Altamira, featuring shallow alluvial soils with granite stones and calcareous material.
• Finca Los Membrillos: Known for its calcareous soils with large granite stones, primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Finca Las Cuchillas: Located in San Pablo, one of the coldest areas in the Uco Valley, known for its high-altitude and calcareous soils.
• Finca Las Cerrilladas: Situated in Gualtallary, with diverse soils influenced by the Jaboncillo Hills​​.

Winemaking

Sebastián Zuccardi, along with a dedicated team of viticulturists and winemakers, emphasizes the importance of expressing the true identity of the Uco Valley through their wines. The winery uses minimal intervention techniques, allowing the unique characteristics of the terroir to shine through.

Most of the wines are fermented and aged in concrete vats and large, untoasted oak barrels, which do not impart any flavors to the wine but allow for subtle micro-oxygenation. This method preserves the purity and expression of the fruit, showcasing the distinctive qualities of each vineyard and parcel​​​​.

Wine Range

Zuccardi offers a diverse range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of the Uco Valley. The portfolio includes:

• Finca Wines: Single vineyard wines that express the specific characteristics of a particular vineyard (ex: Finca Piedra Infinita Supercal, Finca Piedra Infinita Gravascal).
• Paraje Wines: Wines that highlight the identity of a subzone within a village of the Uco Valley (ex: Polígonos Paraje Altamira, Polígonos San Pablo).
• Pueblo Wines: Wines that show the identity of a single village (Geographical Indication) in the Uco Valley (ex: Aluvional Gualtallary, Aluvional La Consulta).
• Viticulturist Wines: Unique expressions honoring the history of the family, a particular region, or grape variety (ex: Tito Zuccardi, Emma Zuccardi).
• Regional Wines: Wines made from Argentina and Mendoza's most important grape varieties from regions considered most representative for each variety​​ (ex: Zuccardi Q Malbec, Zuccardi Serie A Torrontés​).

Did You Know?

Zuccardi has received numerous accolades for its exceptional wines. In 2022, it became the only winery in Argentina with three wines awarded 100 points from Robert Parker Wine Advocate.

Additionally, Wine Enthusiast named it "New World Winery of the Year," and it was recognized as the #1 best vineyard in the world by the World’s Best Vineyards for three consecutive years (2019-2021), earning a place in the Hall of Fame in 2022​​​​.