Description
This leading Patagonia winery is located in Rio Negro Valley, 620 miles south of Buenos Aires in the middle of the desert of Patagonia, Argentina. The climate is bone dry with just seven inches of rain each year. The dry climate with a maximum humidity of 30% keeps the area free of disease; the atmosphere is pristine, pure and unpolluted. Winemaker, Hans Vinding-Diers (Danish, Bordeaux-trained, cousin of Peter Sisseck of Pingus fame in Espana) is fanatical as far as attention to detail goes – biodynamic viticulture, hand harvesting and gravity driven vinification. He joined forces with italiana Noemi Marone-Cinzano (part of the Cinzano family) in this exciting venture. The hallmark of this bodega is “elegancia” , a seamless palate and balance- not big tannic blockbusters often typical of Mendoza.
Fruit is sourced from three different vineyards all 50 yrs of age. This red blend comprises Malbec (90%), Merlot & Cab Franc and was matured 11 months in in 40% old French barrels and 60% in stainless steel vats. Deep purple colour with aromas of spice, currants and a hint of violets. Full-bodied and signature elegance in this wine-more savoury fruit spectrum than malbec from mendoza with lots of blackberry and dark cherry fruit and silky fine grained tannins and a lick of raspberry. It is focused, velvety, plush and complex. Do not miss out on a taste of pristine Patagonia!
93 points, Alejandrio Iglesias, Decanter Magazine “An easygoing Malbec (which also contains 9% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc) from Mainqué in Río Negro, Patagonia. It very much embodies the kind of fresh, welcoming red that many Argentinian wineries are aiming to produce these days. Bright violet in the glass, the aromatic profile features fresh plum and cherry, with hints of herb and balsamic notes. Light and voluminous with lovely freshness and gentle tannins, it will go well chicken, fowl and pork.”
92 points, James Suckling “Savory spices, dried herbs and stems on the nose with earthy blackberries and cranberries. Medium-to full-bodied with powdery tannins and savory, spicy berry fruit and some herbal accents. Drink or hold.”
92 points, Joaquin Hidalgo, Vinous Media “A bright purple in the glass, the precise aromas include fresh plum and cherry along with pure violet notes and subtle hints of black tea and herbs. Rooted in a delicate freshness, the tannins are extremely finely grained while the palate is relaxed and the texture veers between silk and velvet. The compact finish leaves behind an excessively fruity aftertaste.”
RRP $62 Our Price $53.99 – Last bottles of this vintage
