The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Malbec

Producer Note

Matias Riccitelli is the son of renowned winemaker Jorge Riccitelli. Having worked at some of the most prestigious wineries in Argentina and several vintages around the world, Matias used his experience, knowledge and passion and set up his own winery in 2009. His vineyards cover 50 hectares located in three selected sites within the premium growing region of Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza. This is a young and dynamic project in which Matias is seeking to express the full potential of Argentine terroir.

Vintage

2016 was a cool vintage marked by high rainfall. Low temperatures throughout the season imparted this harvest with unique and an intense concentration of aromas.

Vineyard

The grapes are hand picked from Matias Riccitelli's vineyards. Half the grapes come from the Perdriel vineyard at 950 metres above sea-level in the subregion of Lujan de Cuyo. Located at the banks of the Mendoza River, the rocky soil delivers a rich wine, with ripe fruit and smooth tannins. The other half come from Gualtallary, which is situated at 1,400 metres altitude in the northern part of the Uco Valley. The vines here deliver fresh, spicy Malbec from calcareous soils. A green harvest is performed in December to concentrate the flavours in the berries. Both vineyards are influenced by diurnal temperature changes which encourages a long hang time, promoting concentrated flavours in the berries while retaining balancing acidity. The harvest takes place manually in 20 kilo trays in order to protect the quality of the grapes.

Winemaking

The grapes were manually picked at optimum maturity levels and then meticulously sorted by hand in order to only vinify the best grapes. Pre-fermentation cool maceration lasted for five days to extract the desired level of colour and flavour. Fermentation took place at controlled temperatures of 26 to 28°C in small concrete tanks, with 20% of the berries in whole clusters. Indigenous yeasts were used. 100% of the wine was matured in seasoned French oak barrels for 12 months.

Tasting Note

Deep purple in colour, with beautiful aromas of wild dark fruits, vanilla and chocolate on the nose. This is a complex and rich Malbec with smooth ripe tannins and a long finish.

Serving Suggestion

Great with a mixed grill, pasta with meat ragu or soft cheeses.

Grape

Malbec 100%