Download Complete Production Notes

In the remote upper reaches of Argentina’s Uco Valley on the eastern slopes of the Andes, Bodegas Salentein produces a remarkable collection of wines from vineyards planted at some of the highest elevations on the planet. From this lofty outpost, 65 miles south of the bustling city of Mendoza, Argentina’s winemaking capital, Bodegas Salentein (Sah-len-tyne) has started to forge an international reputation for its fine wines. Each year, growing numbers of curious wine lovers are drawn to this spectacular location, intent on discovering and experiencing the beauty and ethos of Bodegas Salentein for themselves.

Bodegas Salentein is a wine destination like no other. Established in the late 1990s, Salentein is a privately-owned estate of almost 5,000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. The property includes a world-class winery and cellars, a 125-acre nature preserve, the showpiece Killka Center for Culture and the Arts, a nearby lodge (the Posada Salentein, offering an elegant and relaxed retreat into nature), and the landmark Chapel of Gratitude, a non-denominational chapel of ascetic loveliness, built using ancient local stonework techniques.

Production Area
The malbec grapes were grown in the estate vineyards Finca El Portillo and Finca La Pampa. Vineyards at different elevations planted in well-drained shallow soils of the alluvial-stony type contributed to the distinctive character of this wine.

Grape Varieties
70% Malbec, 30% Merlot

Vinification
The grapes were hand-harvested in the early morning and placed in 18 kg-plastic bins. Upon arrival in the winery, a cluster selection and soft de-stemming were performed, without breaking the berries. From there, they were placed in the tank, without using pumps, where cold maceration was performed at 8 C to 10 C for 5 days, with the berries virtually intact. After cold maceration, select yeasts were added and fermentation started in a controlled manner for 10 days. The must was pumped over and the cap was manually punched down very softly until the end of fermentation. Subsequently, maceration continued for 20 more days. After this stage, the wine was immediately racked to new and second-use French oak barrels, where malo-lactic fermentation took place.

Color
Bright purplish color with great intensity and depth

Bouquet
Sweet aromas of ripe red raspberries and dark and delicious plums

Taste
Perfectly rounded, with excellent structure, balanced acidity, and a long finish

Alcohol
15%

Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with grilled steaks, roasts and pasta in richly flavored sauces