Pr1mum Cabernet Sauvignon

In the remote upper reaches of Argentina's Valle de Uco 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 has forged 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.

This wine was produced using Cabernet Sauvignon clones 169 and 337, sourced from parcels N°s 720 and 721 at “El Oasis” estate, located in Tunuyán in the Uco Valley, at 3,800 feet asl planted in 2003. Harvest occurred on April 6 and 7. The sandy-loam alluvial soils are littered with calcium carbonate-rich stones beginning 20 inches below the surface.

Grapes were hand-harvested and transported in 400-kg bins. 30% of the fruit was vinified in 225-liter French oak barrels, the rest in 7,000-litre foudres. Pre-fermentation cold maceration was employed in both cases at between 50º and 53ºF for five days. Alcoholic fermentation was initiated with selected yeasts at controlled temperatures between 82º and 86ºF for about 12 days. Remontage was employed for the foudres, pigéage and the controlled introduction of oxygen using the cliqueur device for the barrels. After the post-fermentation maceration was completed, the wine underwent délastage and transferred to French oak barrels (15 percent new) for malolactic fermentation. The wine was then barrel-aged for 18 months.

Intense ruby red color. Expressively aromatic on the nose, with notes of roasted red pepper and tomato marmalade combining with more subtle notes of liquorice and black pepper. Fine-textured tannins in the mouth, good acidity and a long lingering finish.