Mendoza, Argentina, known best for Malbec, but a new generation is bringing new ideas to the region.
This week's flight features four of those innovative producers, making a name for themselves with atypical varietals, using new methods, or returning to classic Old-World techniques.
Grab the flight for $5!
Featured Wines:
Alma 4 Almacita Brut NV
Mendoza, Argentina; $17.99
Agustin Lopez, Mauricio Castro, Marcela Manini and Sebastian Zuccardi met in school when they were 17 years old and they eventually formed Alma 4. Now, more than 20 years later, they are still making wine together. The Almacita is 100% Chardonnay coming from high altitude vineyards in the Uco Valley. Produced in the Charmat Method similar to Prosecco giving the wine a bright freshness, and crisp finish. Tropical fruit, green apple, and a touch of yeastiness. – Sample $1.50
Glen del Alma “Ji Ji Ji” Chenin Blanc 2021
Mendoza Argentina; $17.99
100% Varietal, hand harvested, single vineyard production from the city of Tunuyan in Mendoza. The nose is beautiful, bursting with citrus and floral notes. A vibrant mouthwatering acidity on the palate finishing with lemon and a touch of salinity. – Sample $1.50
Passionate Wines “Via Revolucionaria” Criolla Grande 2021
Mendoza, Argentina; $14.99
Unknown to many American consumers, Criolla Grande is one of the most planted grape varietals in Argentina. It is rarely exported, and is often used for making easy table reds. Matias Michelini the brainchild of Passionate Wines focuses on producing wines from atypical varietals, or as in this case, use classic varietals in a non-traditional method. The 50 year old vines used in this bottling bring a lot of depth and character, not often seen in the varietal. It is a lighter red style, produced in concrete with the intension of keep the wine as fresh and bright as possible. Notes of bright cherry, strawberry, raspberry, rose petals, and milk chocolate. Try it with a slight chill! – Sample $1.50
Zorzal Cabernet Franc 2019
Mendoza, Argentina; $19.99
We love Argentine Cabernet Franc! The Zorzal estate is located in the Gualtallary subregion of the Uco Valley at approximately 4800 ft elevation. This high elevation supplies enough Sun to ripen out much of the green pepper flavors common in the varietal. Organic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, and aged in only neutral French oak barrels to soften the tannins.
“This has a fresh, vibrant aromas of red and pink berries with assertive, cedary oak. The palate has impressive tannin structure and a very supple, fleshy and crunchy feel to the spicy, long finish.” 93pts James Suckling – Sample $2.00