Mendoza, at the foot of the Andes Mountains in Argentina , is known for wine. It is home to over 1500 vineyards, which produce the bulk of Argentine wine.
The Tupungato Valley is located 50 miles to the south of the city of Mendoza. In the foothills of the Andes, the altitudes of the Uco Valley range from 3,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level. The optimal altitude and micro-climates provide for especially ideal grape-growing conditions. This elevation adds an interesting element to these wines: as altitude increases, so too does the intensity of the sunlight on the grapes.
The sunny day and dry summer conditions assure for complete maturation of the grapes, and the cool evening temperatures and controlled irrigation serve to prolong the longevity of the grapes, creating a good balance between sugar and acidity. The pebble-covered soils allow optimal drainage and low humidity.
WINERY TO WATCH
Pioneering the industry, Rutini Wines was one of the first to plant vineyards in Tupungato, now recognized as one of Mendoza’s premier viticulture regions.In fact, Don Felipe Rutini began to plant vineyards in the Uco Valley in 1925. From these pioneering plantations, the region has been consolidating itself as one of the main wine-growing centers of Mendoza. During the 90’s, the original facilities of La Rural in Coquimbito were completely renovated, incorporating
state-of-the-art technology to the structure that had been in operation since the 19th century.
In line with the desire for improvement and excellence of its founder, in 2008 the Rutini Wines plant in Tupungato was built, where the lines Felipe Rutini, Antología, Apartado, Rutini Collection, Encuentro and Trumpeter are produced. These farms cover more than 400 hectares – at an altitude between 1,050 and 1,200 meters above sea level.
TASTE FOR YOURSELF
Mendoza is synonymous with Malbec. Apartado’s Gran Malbec is intense, but silky with seductive shades of red and purple undertones. On the nose, it is complex, elegant, and floral aromas are present with notes of fresh fruit. On the mouth, it has a smooth concentration and boasts a potent fruit character with hints of liquorice and toasty cocoa beans from the time spent in french oak. This intriguing Malbec stands out from the rest with a long and unforgettable finish.
The Encuentro Cabernet Sauvignon has a vibrant red color with violet undertones. The concentrated nose has notes of ripe blackberries, spicy red and black pepper blended with vanilla and a toasty aroma. The mouthfeel has great structure with round tannins, velvety texture and a persistent finish.
Of course, not all Argentine wines are red. Trumpeter produces Argentina’s signature white varietal, Torrontes, which is a unique white wine with distinctive floral aromas. There are enticing notes of white peaches are accompanied with hints of jasmine and rose. On the palate, it’s pleasantly fresh, with citrus notes, beautiful structure and pleasant acidity. Prolonged and mouthfilling finish.
Lastly, Rutini’s Coleccion features an amazing Cabernet-Malbec Blend. This is a brilliant blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Malbec represents the true richness of the Uco Valley. On the nose there is robust fruity aromas of cherry, jam and plum. The mouthfeel combines ripe fruit with rich spices such as vanilla & chocolate imparted by oak. There is great structure and smooth tannins, with a prolonged finish.
