Vendimia time here in Mendoza is extremely busy with a high number of tourists visiting as well as the approach of the grape harvest season. We are also pleased to feature new and traditional Mendocino wineries each week in our Noche de Enologo or Winemaker’s Night that we host every Wednesday. We are also excited to welcome several new sommelier interns that will be helping us in the harvest season and who you will start to see more exciting information and articles about Mendoza and Argentine wine.
Lindsay Trivers is from Canada and is working her way around the world to learn more about different countries, varietals and cosecha. She was on hand last night to taste the latest wines from acclaimed winery Dominio Del Plata and Susana Balbo.
The evening’s presenters included José Laviglia, son of Susana, who proudly shared his family’s wine philosophy, winemaker Gustavo Bertagna, and Latin America Sales Manager, Rodolfo Juarez.
Served first was a wine from Salta; the world’s highest wine region. The Crios Torrontés remained true to its varietal typicity showcasing intense floral notes, sweet spices, citrus peel and high acidity.
In sequence, we tasted the Ben Marco Malbec 2008, the Susana Balbo Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, and the ultra premium blend, Ben Marco Expresivo 2007. While these wines were true to their varietal differences, they shared a consistency of power, exquisite elegance and thoughtful structure conducive of aging the wines.
As we swirled and sniffed, the discussion flowed from their experimentation of growing grapes at high altitudes and producing fresher wine styles, to creative oaking techniques. To illustrate, Bertagna shared their success in using special order French barriques that have been toasted at a lower temperature, for a longer period of time. The finished barrel has only a light level of toast. To top off these special barrels, literally, they request that one end be fitted with a removable stainless steel lid so that red wines can be fermented in barrel with the skins intact, and the barrel cleaned out effortlessly and used again. While unusual, the methods are providing great results.
The night, once again, proved a success for both winemakers and guests alike. The weekly event continue to provide an amazing insight into the techniques and innovation of winemakers from the region while allowing those in attendance the chance to satisfy their curiosity as to how some of the greatest wines in the world are made.
Thanks to José, Gustavo and Rodolfo for their insights, and to all those who joined us. We look forward to seeing you next Wednesday at The Vines for Bodega Ave.
