Wines

As in wine, all plans need a long time to bring some reward, but the philosophy of terroir immediately decanted to all other practices at Altos Las Hormigas. We believe that each intervention on the wine means a step away from its origin. No intervention is impossible, but we try to do as little as possible in winemaking. Minimal extraction, neutral oak, natural yeast, very little sulfites are just a few items to mention, that guide us in what we do. We also seek naturally low alcohol through harvesting as early as possible in each soil type. Our dedication to terroir-driven wines has transformed not only our philosophy, but the evolution of the wines.

Malbec Reserve 2020

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes from vineyards on calcareous soils located in the Uco Valley. 20% come from vineyards in the alluvial deposits of the Tunuyán River in Paraje Altamira, and 80% come from the high and alluvial zone of Gualtallary. These terraces have medium and large gravels, covered with calcium carbonate paste, which contributes to the structure, texture, and aftertaste of the wine.

Vintage

This was a very dry year, with an average rainfall below the region’s historic records. The weather in the months previous to the harvest marked the hottest minimum temperatures of the last ten years, with very hot days. These conditions produced very concentrated grapes, with amazing potential. February brought cooler days, so we rapidly organized the harvesting schedule to pick up the grapes at their optimum ripening level. By the first days of March, all the grapes were in the winery.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand, selecting the bunches with care. During the fermentation/maceration, very careful pigeages were made in order to obtain an optimum extraction. The juice was fermented at 26°C (79°F) with natural acidity and indigenous yeasts that grant freshness, typicality and vibrancy. 75% of the wine was aged for 18 months in 3,500 liters untoasted, French oak foudres, while the other 25% was aged in concrete pools with no epoxy, so the fruit preserves its intensity and nature. Aged for 12 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

This Malbec has a bright red color and a very intense first nose. Aromas of black fruits, such as blueberries and cherries, are complemented by notes of violets, white pepper, and aromas of the foothills of Mendoza’s mountains, typical of wines from calcareous soils. The fruit is the central character when the wine enters the mouth, with an acidity that works like a train that goes through different stations until it reaches the end of the palate, where the wine remains for a long time showing tension and a fine texture.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2020
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: Diam 10
Alcohol: 13.8%
Acidity: 5.6 g/l
pH: 3.66
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

La Danza Malbec 2020

Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand, in vineyards all around Mendoza.

Vintage

The 2020 vintage was very dry, with an average rainfall below Mendoza’s historic records. We had the hottest minimum temperatures of the last ten years, with very hot days, especially before harvest. The weather contributed to concentration in the grapes, providing great potential for winemaking. February brought cooler days, keeping freshness in the bunches, so we rapidly organized the harvesting schedule in order to pick up the grapes at their optimum ripening level. By the first days of March, all the grapes were in the winery.

Winemaking

Grapes are vinified separately before the final blend. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks between 24-26°C for 10 days, using exclusively indigenous yeasts. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for 6 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

This Malbec has a cheerful red ruby color, with bright violet hues. It is intense and fruity on the nose, displaying notes of red fruits, strawberries, fresh plums, and subtle notes of grapefruit. It is a fresh and drinkable wine, with a balanced acidity in the palate and supple tannins. Flavors linger on the mouth, with a fruity finish. This is a very food-friendly wine, ideal to pair with several dishes such as red meats, pasta, or cold cuts plates.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2020
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 6.3 g/l
pH: 3.77
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Malbec Clasico 2019

Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes come from vineyards in Luján de Cuyo (70%) and the Uco Valley (30%). The region has a semi-desert climate with hot days and cool nights. We choose fresh soils, with good water drainage and a fine silt-sandy texture. These soils allow a deep development of the roots since their water retention capacity is great for the roots to expand and give the plants a better ability to resist heat waves, which are common during the summer in Mendoza. In this climate, we avoid soils with abundant superficial gravels, which increase the warming effect around the vine and might shorten the ripening season.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand. After a careful, double sorting process, the grapes are softly pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in order to express the vineyard they come from. Fermentation takes place in separate stainless steel tanks between 24-28°C for 10 days. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 9 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

This wine displays a bright ruby red color, with lively violet hues. On the nose it is intense, showing notes of red fruits, strawberry, and fresh plums. As the wine opens, it also shows mineral notes of graphite. On the palate, it is fresh, very drinkable, with balanced acidity and supple tannins. The finish is long, fruity, and vertical. This Malbec is ideal to pair with various dishes, from red meats to pasta or grilled vegetables.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 4.65 g/l
pH: 3.76
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Tinto 2019

Mendoza

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Vineyard

Bonarda and Malbec grapes come mainly from vineyards in Luján de Cuyo and Medrano in a smaller percentage. Semillon grapes come from the Uco Valley. The region has a semi-desert climate with hot days and cool nights. We choose fresh soils, with good water drainage. These soils allow a deep development of the roots since their water retention capacity is great for them to expand and give the plants a better ability to resist heat waves, which are common during the summer in Mendoza. In this climate, we avoid soils with abundant superficial gravels, which increase the warming effect around the vine and might shorten the ripening season.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

A blend of Malbec, Bonarda, and Semillon grapes, harvested by hand. Careful, double sorting process, before fermentation. Malbec and Semillon grapes are harvested early and co-fermented, in order to soften the tannins, enhance the aromas, and have more complexity on the nose. Bonarda is vinified separately before the final blend, which is done a couple of months before bottling in order to keep the freshness of each one of the components. Fermentation takes place in separate stainless steel tanks, at a temperature between 24-26°C, for 10 days. Only indigenous yeasts are involved in the process. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 9 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

This flavorful blend of red grapes, with a small but refreshing percentage of white grapes, is a pleasure wine, very easy to drink. It has an intense red ruby color with bright violet hues. On the nose, a lovely bouquet of fruity aromas, such as strawberries, figs, and red fruits; it also shows notes of spices – clove – and herbs – eucalyptus and pine tree. On the palate it is structured and balanced, awakening the senses from the first sip and leaving us wanting more. It has delicate tannins and a long, fruity finish. This blend is a great pairing with Mediterranean cuisine, eggplant and tomato dishes; and it can also be enjoyed by itself.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: 48% Bonarda - 45% Malbec - 7% Semillón
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM 5
Alcohol: 13%
Acidity: 6.3 g/l
pH: 3.72
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Malbec Appellation Gualtallary 2019

Gualtallary, Uco Valley

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Vineyard

100% of this Malbec stems from the loamy soils of Gualtallary, lying at 1,400 meters above sea level. The soil presents limestone-covered pebbles and gravels that occupy 50-70% of the soil volume, with a high percentage of free calcium carbonate in the profile granting to the wine a fresh minerality.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance on the 2019 harvest; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

The grapes go through a double selection process and are released by gravity into small concrete tanks. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 26ºC for 20 days. In order to maintain a careful, gentle handling, pumping is not used; the cap is rotated by manual pigeage throughout the fermentation. 85% of the wine was matured in 3,500 ltr untoasted foudres for 20 months, while the remaining 15% was aged in concrete vats. There was a coarse filtration prior to bottling, to ensure no interference with the quality of the wine. Aged for 12 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

This is an explosive wine that fills all your senses. A brilliant Malbec with a deep ruby color, showing also rich violet hues. The nose is herbaceous and shows fruity and saline notes, with very present aromas of graphite, as well as thyme, blueberries, plums, and violets. The complexity on the nose is also appreciated on the mouth. This is a structured and vertical wine, with firm tannins. It has a great grip on the palate and a long, fruity finish with mineral notes, typical of its place of origin: a vineyard with limestone soils in the heights of the Uco Valley.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Gualtallary, Uco Valley
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM 30
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.62 g/l
pH: 3.77
Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l

Malbec Clasico 2020

Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes come from vineyards in Luján de Cuyo (70%) and the Uco Valley (30%). The region has a semi-desert climate with hot days and cool nights. We choose fresh soils, with good water drainage and a fine silt-sandy texture. These soils allow a deep development of the roots since their water retention capacity is great for the roots to expand and give the plants a better ability to resist heat waves, which are common during the summer in Mendoza. In this climate, we avoid soils with abundant superficial gravels, which increase the warming effect around the vine and might shorten the ripening season.

Vintage

This was a very dry year, with an average rainfall below the region’s historic records. The weather in the months previous to the harvest marked the hottest minimum temperatures of the last ten years, with very hot days. These conditions produced very concentrated grapes, with amazing potential. February brought cooler days, so we rapidly organized the harvesting schedule to pick up the grapes at their optimum ripening level. By the first days of March, all the grapes were in the winery.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand. After a careful, double sorting process, the grapes are softly pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in order to express the vineyard they come from. Fermentation takes place in separate stainless steel tanks between 24-28°C for 10 days. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 9 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

This is a Malbec with an intense ruby red color, showing deep violet hues. It is very expressive on the nose, presenting notes of red fruits, plums, cherries and raspberries. It also has subtle aromas of orange rinds and “jarilla”, a typical plant from Mendoza. The entry in the palate is very fresh, with a soft acidity that travels through the mouth. It is a concentrated, juicy and very balanced wine, with a long and pleasant finish. It is ideal to pair with various dishes, from red meats to pasta or grilled vegetables.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2020
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.16 g/l
pH: 3.78
Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/l

Malbec Appellation Paraje Altamira 2019

Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% of this Malbec stems from the alluvial terrace of Altamira, lying at 1,200 meters above sea level. The soil consists of 3% clay in the fine matrix with limestone-covered pebbles and gravels that occupy 85% of the soil volume, giving the wine its elegance and minerality.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

The grapes go through a double selection process and are released by gravity into small concrete containers. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 26°C for 15 days. In order to maintain careful, gentle handling, pumping is not used; the cap is rotated by manual pigeage throughout the fermentation. The wine was matured in 3,500 ltr untoasted Foudres for 18 months, and 12 months in the bottle. There was a coarse filtration prior to bottling, to ensure no interference with the quality of the wine.

Tasting Notes

A fantastic vintage for our Paraje Altamira Malbec, which shows as much complexity, concentration, and texture as this appellation can deliver; without resigning drinkability nor grace. It has a deep ruby red color with soft violet hues. The nose is intense and elegant, with aromas of black fruits, cassis and plums, as well as herbal aromas, mainly eucalyptus. Subtle notes of chalk and orange peel begin to show as the wine opens in the glass. The attack is impressive; it is juicy, fresh and vertical in the palate. It has great texture, notes of chalk and a long and velvety finish that leaves you with a watering mouth and a smile on your face.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM 30
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.8 g/l
pH: 3.75
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Malbec Clásico 2018

Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes come from vineyards in Luján de Cuyo. The region has a semi-desert climate with hot days and cool nights. We choose fresh soils, with good water drainage and a fine silt-sandy texture. These soils allow a deep development of the roots, since their water retention capacity is great for the roots to expand and give the plants a better ability to resist heat waves, which are common during the summer in Mendoza. In this climate we avoid soils with abundant superficial gravels, which increase the warming effect around the vine and might shorten the ripening season.

Vintage

In the months previous to the harvest the changing seasons brought quite variable weather. Spring kept us on our toes, with small pockets of frost lowering yields in the higher altitude vineyards, notably in the cool Paraje Altamira area of the Uco Valley. Some of the early days of summer reached temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F). However the climate conditions during the harvest were immensely favorable, with very little rain, allowing the team to pick the grapes according to schedule. Regionally, 2018 came close to “normal” grape volumes, with balanced yields and healthy grapes of excellent quality and good concentration. This was truly a fantastic vintage.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand. After a careful, double sorting process, the grapes are softly pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in order to express the vineyard they come from. Fermentation takes place in separate stainless steel tanks between 24-28°C for 10 days. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 9 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 vintage – marked by the always present sun of Mendoza – shows in the concentrated and lively color of this wine: a bright violet red. On the nose, the variety fully unfolds, with its characteristic notes of fresh red plums, but also displaying aromas of strawberries and a subtle note of peppermint. The palate presents great intensity, character and a silky texture, highlighted by juicy red fruit flavors with an interesting note of pepper. This is a pleasure wine that lingers in the mouth. A classic Mendoza Malbec from an exceptional quality vintage, ideal to pair with various dishes, from red meats to pasta or grilled vegetables.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM5
Alcohol: 13,5%
Acidity: 5.13 g/l
pH: 3.8
Residual Sugar: 2.03 g/l

Malbec Reserve 2019

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes from vineyards on calcareous soils located in the Uco Valley, in the alluvial deposits of the Tunuyán River in Paraje Altamira and in the high and alluvial zone of Gualtallary.
These terraces have medium and large gravels, covered with calcium carbonate paste, which contributes to the structure, texture, and aftertaste of the wine.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand, selecting the bunches with care. During the fermentation, maceration was carried out through very careful pigeages in order to obtain an optimum extraction. The juice was fermented at 28°C / 82°F with natural acidity and indigenous yeasts that grant freshness, typicality and vibrancy. The wine was aged for 18 months in 3,500 liters untoasted, French oak foudres, and then spent 12 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

A wonderful vintage of our Malbec Reserve, full of elegance and freshness. It has a bright ruby color with reddish hues. Aromas of black fruits, such as cassis and blueberry, are mixed together with mineral notes of graphite and chalk. Once the wine opens, it also shows spiced aromas, such as cloves and pine. It is balanced on the palate, with a fresh entry and intense fruity flavors highlighted by its great acidity. It has a long and persistent finish with mineral and spicy notes. This wine is the clear expression of limestone soils in the Uco Valley.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.60 g/l
pH: 3.67
Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l

Tinto 2018

Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes come mainly from vineyards in Luján de Cuyo and Medrano in a smaller percentage. The region has a semi-desert climate with hot days and cool nights. We choose fresh soils, with good water drainage and a fine silt-sandy texture. These soils allow a deep development of the roots, since their water retention capacity is great for the roots to expand and give the plants a better ability to resist heat waves, which are common during the summer in Mendoza. In this climate we avoid soils with abundant superficial gravels, which increase the warming effect around the vine and might shorten the ripening season.

Vintage

The climate transition from “El Niño” to “La Niña” pushed temperatures creating heat waves during most of January. Following our belief in early harvest we started picking up our grapes on February the 15th. The weather during harvest was very favorable, unaffected by hail storms or frosting. Low yields where again a feature of this harvest that naturally improved the quality of the grapes, which are more concentrated and flavorful. 2017 will be very likely a collectors vintage, scarce and of the highest quality.

Winemaking

A blend of Malbec, Bonarda and Semillon grapes, harvested by hand. Careful, double sorting process, before fermentation. Malbec and Semillon grapes are co-fermented, while Bonarda is vinified separately before the final blend. Fermentation takes place in separate stainless steel tanks, at a temperature between 24-28°C, for 10 days. Only indigenous yeasts are involved in the process. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 9 months in concrete vats. No oak aging.

Tasting Notes

Our continuous search for the expression of Mendoza’s true identity in our wines has led us to elaborate, for the first time, a blend of three grapes: Malbec, Bonarda and Semillon. These three varieties are recognized by the Argentine wine community for their long history in the region and we believe they are now authentic Mendoza grapes.
This wine has a bright and attractive red color. On the nose, aromas of red fruits and spices prevail, but it also shows subtle citric notes, like fresh tangerine rind. The palate is round with a silky texture and concentrated flavors, an easy-to-drink wine. The finish is linear and refreshing, with a smooth and inviting acidity. This blend is a great pairing with Mediterranean cuisine, eggplant and tomato dishes; and it can also be enjoyed by itself.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 48% Bonarda - 45% Malbec - 7% Semillon
Region: Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM5
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.29 g/l
pH: 3.6
Residual Sugar: 1.89 g/l

Malbec Terroir Lujan de Cuyo 2017

Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza

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Vineyard

The vines are rooted in a high density organic vineyard polygon in our Luján de Cuyo estate.
The preparation of the soil included the addition of hummus, along with water management and organic coverage from day one, aiming for the roots to develop deep into the soil; a key factor to obtain wines with good quality and natural freshness, especially in warm climates. The soil here presents almost no clay but a great presence of limestone, ideal characteristics for the winery’s style.

Vintage

The climate transition from “El Niño” to “La Niña” pushed temperatures creating heat waves during most of January. Following our belief in early harvest we started picking up Malbec grapes in Lujan de Cuyo on February the 15th, as in the Uco Valley the Malbec harvest began on February the 24th. The weather during harvest was very favorable, unaffected by hail storms or frosting. Low yields where again a feature of this harvest that naturally improved the quality of the grapes, which are more concentrated and flavourful. 2017 will be very likely a collectors vintage, scarce and of the highest quality.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes hand-picked from an organic certified own vineyard. The grapes are released by gravity into small concrete tanks where the alcoholic fermentation takes place. The juice is fermented using native yeasts, at 24-28°C for 12 days. The wine is kept 18 months in the concrete tanks for aging, and 6 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

This Malbec comes from an organic vineyard with limestone soils, seeking to show a different expression of the traditional Lujan de Cuyo area as well as preserving the typical characteristics of the wines coming from this wine region. It displays a deep violet red color with purple hues. The nose is subtle, with aromas of red fruits and soft mineral notes. As the wine opens it shows some notes of mendocinian underbrush and lemon thyme. The palate is fresh, with notes of violets. Fine grain tannins reveal the limestone soils it comes from. It has a long and elegant finish, where the wine shows its structure and minerality. Ideal to pair with roasted red meats and spicy dishes.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2017
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.3 %
Acidity: 5.25 g/l
pH: 3.85
Residual Sugar: <1.8 g/l

Malbec Terroir Uco Valley 2018

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% Uco Valley. Grapes are harvested by hand from a blend of high-density vineyards located in the sub-region of La Consulta as well as two areas in Tupungato. These are gravelly, alluvial soils with abundant stones and limestone presence.

Vintage

In the months previous to the harvest the changing seasons brought quite variable weather. Spring kept us on our toes, with small pockets of frost lowering yields in the higher altitude vineyards, notably in the cool Paraje Altamira area of the Uco Valley. Some of the early days of summer reached temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F). However, the climate conditions during the harvest were immensely favorable, with very little rain, allowing the team to pick the grapes according to schedule. Regionally, 2018 came close to “normal” grape volumes, with balanced yields and healthy grapes of excellent quality and good concentration. This was truly a fantastic vintage.

Winemaking

Grapes from different vineyards are vinified separately before the final blend. The grapes are selected from a double selection table before going into small stainless steel tanks. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 24-28°C, for 12 days. Each tank is tasted three times a day to determine what is needed. It is aged for 18 months in concrete pools (75% of the wine) and untoasted large oak foudres (25% of the wine). Ageing for 6 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

A fresh Uco Valley Malbec from the altitude of the Andes mountains. It shows an aromatic herb perfume along with impressive violet aromas. This is a juicy and intense wine, with notes of youthful plum and blueberry fruit. It has a great grip on the palate, with layered tannins and a balanced, long finish. Ideal to pair with Mediterranean cuisine and red meats.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli
Closure: DIAM 10
Alcohol: 13.7%
Acidity: 5.7 g/l
pH: 3.75
Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l

Blanco 2020

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

Pergola trellised 80-year-old vines. The vineyards are located in the Uco Valley, in an area with deep soils. The valley has a good range of temperatures between day and night, helping the grapes keeping their natural acidity.

Vintage

The 2020 vintage was very dry, with an average of rainfall below Mendoza’s historic records. We had the hottest minimum temperatures of the last ten years, with very hot days, especially before harvest. The weather contributed to concentration in the grapes, providing great potential for winemaking. February brought cooler days, keeping freshness in the bunches, so we rapidly organized the harvesting schedule in order to pick-up the grapes at their optimum ripening level.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested grapes, vinified separately before the final blend, using different processes: one part of the grapes were elaborated using traditional methods, whereas a second part of the grapes were fermented with skins; and a third part, with up to 30% of stems. Both Semillon and Chenin Blanc were fermented with native yeasts in concrete vats. Malolactic fermentation took place on the same vats. It was aged for 6 months in concrete vats. No oak was used in the elaboration process.

Tasting Notes

Altos Las Hormigas’ first white wine is a fresh blend of Semillon and Chenin Blanc, two traditional varieties from Mendoza’s Terroir. This wine has a bright yellow color with golden hues. On the nose, it is very expressive, with intense citric notes, aromas of pineapple and peach. Floral notes are also present on the nose, especially orange blossom. The fresh mouth is granted by its balanced acidity and a certain tension given by mineral notes. It has a persistent finish, where the citric notes stand out. This flavorful wine is ideal to enjoy as an aperitif with great personality or to pair it with white meats, light-bodied sauces, and ocean and river fish.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2020
Varietal: 56% Chenin Blanc - 44% Semillón
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 11.5%
Acidity: 5.60 g/l
pH: 3.71
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Malbec Appellation Paraje Altamira 2018

Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% of this Malbec stems from the alluvial terrace of Altamira, lying at 1,200 meters above sea level. The soil consists of 3% clay in the fine matrix with limestone covered pebbles and gravels that occupy 85% of the soil volume, giving the wine its elegance and minerality.

Vintage

In the months previous to the harvest the changing seasons brought quite variable weather. Spring kept us on our toes, with small pockets of frost lowering yields in the higher altitude vineyards, notably in the cool Paraje Altamira area of the Uco Valley. Some of the early days of summer reached temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F). However, the climate conditions during the harvest were immensely favorable, with very little rain, allowing the team to pick the grapes according to schedule. Regionally, 2018 came close to “normal” grape volumes, with balanced yields and healthy grapes of excellent quality and good concentration. This was truly a fantastic vintage.

Winemaking

The grapes go through a double selection process and are released by gravity into small concrete containers. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 24°C for 15 days. In order to maintain careful, gentle handling, pumping is not used; the cap is rotated by manual pigeage throughout the fermentation. The wine was matured in 3,500 ltr untoasted foudres for 18 months, and 12 months in the bottle. There was a coarse filtration prior to bottling, to ensure no interference with the quality of the wine.

Tasting Notes

This Paraje Altamira Malbec shows the tension and subtlety that only great wines coming from this appellation can achieve. It is a wine where patience is rewarded by the different nuances that are displayed in the glass. Expressive in the nose, with mineral notes that are also present in the palate, which shows as well notes of fennel and fresh red fruits. A wine with many layers, subtle and graceful, but of a fundamental structure that sustains and lengthens the sensation of the wine in the mouth, is the backbone that evokes the soil of calcareous origin, where the grapes come from.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM 30
Alcohol: 13.6%
Acidity: 4.8 g/l
pH: 3.7
Residual Sugar: 1.96 g/l

Malbec Appellation Gualtallary 2018

Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% of this Malbec stems from the loamy soils of Gualtallary, lying at 1,300 meters above sea level. The soil presents limestone covered pebbles and gravels that occupy 50-70% of the soil volume, with a high percentage of free calcium carbonate in the profile granting to the wine a chalky, fresh minerality.

Vintage

In the months previous to the harvest the changing seasons brought quite variable weather. Spring kept us on our toes, with small pockets of frost lowering yields in the higher altitude vineyards, notably in the cool Paraje Altamira area of the Uco Valley. Some of the early days of summer reached temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F). However, the climate conditions during the harvest were immensely favorable, with very little rain, allowing the team to pick the grapes according to schedule. Regionally, 2018 came close to “normal” grape volumes, with balanced yields and healthy grapes of excellent quality and good concentration. This was truly a fantastic vintage.

Winemaking

The grapes go through a double selection process and are released by gravity into small concrete tanks. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 24ºC for 15 days. In order to maintain a careful, gentle handling, pumping is not used; the cap is rotated by manual pigeage throughout the fermentation. The wine was matured in 3,500 ltr untoasted foudres for 18 months, and 12 months in the bottle. There was a coarse filtration prior to bottling, to ensure no interference with the quality of the wine.

Tasting Notes

This wine comes from a vineyard with its roots in communion with caliche (calcium carbonate conglomerate) which grants a special mineral salinity to this Gualtallary Malbec. On the first approach in the nose, it is quite austere, but patience is rewarded with notes of rosemary, lavender, and graphite. It shows the structure and intensity that is a feature of Malbecs from this area in the Uco Valley, with a fresh palate, fine-grained tannins, and a long and delightful length.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM 30
Alcohol: 13.9%
Acidity: 5.33 g/l
pH: 3.7
Residual Sugar: 1.89 g/l

Blanco 2021

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

Pergola trellised 80-year-old vines. Part of the Semillon comes from our Jardin Altamira, trellised in espaliers. The vineyards are located in the Uco Valley (San Carlos and Paraje Altamira), in areas with deep soils. The valley has a good range of temperatures between day and night, helping the grapes keeping their natural acidity.

Vintage

The season began with a fresh and dry spring that favored good fruit set in the vines. During summer, temperatures were moderate, and February – the month in which we pick up these grapes – had bouts of rain. By the end of the season, rains lowered and temperatures were not very high; these lasts days were warm and stable, keeping the grapes turgid and avoiding over-ripeness. Years in which the climate plays the enemy part confirm that our early harvest philosophy is key to keep natural acidity and freshness in our wines.

Winemaking

Hand-harvested grapes, vinified separately before the final blend, using different processes: one part of the grapes was elaborated using traditional methods, whereas a second part of the grapes was fermented with skins; and a third part, with up to 30% of stems. All grapes were fermented with native yeasts in concrete vats. Malolactic fermentation took place on the same vats. It was aged for 6 months in concrete vats. No oak was used in the elaboration process.

Tasting Notes

We believe that a white wine from Mendoza must portray the region’s soil and climate characteristics, as well as renewing local traditions. We are adding a new grape into the blend in this vintage of our “Blanco”: Pedro Giménez, a local white grape variety that is the most planted in Argentina. The result is a wine with a bright yellow color, with silver and greenish hues. It is very intense on the nose, showing fruity notes of peach, pineapple and soft grapefruit aromas. Pedro Gimenez grapes add complexity to the blend, making the nose even more interesting with layers of herbal notes. It is very fresh on the palate, with balanced acidity, tension and structure that become the backbone of this wine. Its fruity and concentrated flavors make this wine ideal to enjoy as an aperitif with great personality, or to pair it with white meats, light-bodied sauces, and ocean and river fish.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2021
Varietal: 48% Semillon - 30% Pedro Gimenez - 22% Chenin Blanc
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 11%
Acidity: 6.3 g/l
pH: 3.2
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l

Malbec Organic Terroir Lujan de Cuyo 2019

Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza

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Vineyard

The vines are rooted in a high-density vineyard polygon in our Luján de Cuyo estate. The preparation of the soil included the addition of hummus, along with water management and organic coverage from day one, aiming for the roots to develop deep into the soil; a key factor to obtain wines with good quality and natural freshness, especially in warm climates. The soil here presents almost no clay but a great presence of limestone, ideal characteristics for the winery’s style.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes hand-picked from an organic certified own vineyard. The grapes are released by gravity into small concrete tanks where the alcoholic fermentation takes place. The juice is fermented using native yeasts, at 26°C for 15 days. It is aged for 18 months in concrete pools (75% of the wine) and untoasted large oak foudres (25% of the wine). Ageing for 6 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

The creative idea behind this wine was to show Lujan de Cuyo’s subtlest and most mineral side. This Malbec is different from the wines coming from this traditional appellation in Mendoza since it is certified organic and it comes from a polygon in our vineyard with limestone soils. It has a concentrated red ruby color. The nose is fruity and expressive showing typical notes of red fruits, plums and cherries, as well as notes of lemon thyme, eucalyptus and mendocinian underbrush. Freshness is the first sensation in the palate; the wine has an elegant acidity. It is a vertical Malbec with texture, supple tannins and a long finish. Ideal to pair with roasted red meats and spicy dishes.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 5.7 g/l
pH: 3.74
Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l

Malbec Reserve 2018

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

Grapes from vineyards on calcareous soils located in the Uco Valley, in the alluvial deposits of the Tunuyán River in Paraje Altamira and in the high and alluvial zone of Gualtallary.
These terraces have medium and large gravels, covered with calcium carbonate paste, which contributes to the structure, texture, and aftertaste of the wine.

Vintage

In the months previous to the harvest the changing seasons brought quite variable weather. Spring kept us on our toes, with small pockets of frost lowering yields in the higher altitude vineyards, notably in the cool Paraje Altamira area of the Uco Valley. Some of the early days of summer reached temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F). However, the climate conditions during the harvest were immensely favorable, with very little rain, allowing the team to pick the grapes according to schedule. Regionally, 2018 came close to “normal” grape volumes, with balanced yields and healthy grapes of excellent quality and good concentration. This was truly a fantastic vintage.

Winemaking

100% Malbec grapes harvested by hand, selecting the bunches with care. During the fermentation, a very delicate treatment was given on the cap to avoid over-extraction. The juice fermented with indigenous yeasts. The wine was aged for 18 months in 3,500 liters foudres of untoasted French oak, and then spent 12 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

Made with selected grapes from vineyards located in the highlands of the Uco Valley; the vines are rooted in limestone soils that grant this Malbec its mineral notes. On the nose, it also shows notes of white pepper, graphite, and red and black fruits. As it spends time in the glass, it unfolds its true character, complex and multilayered. It is fresh in the mouth, with fine-grained tannins and a spicy finish. Its intensity is revealed in its concentrated flavors that remain for a long time in the palate.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Leonardo Erazo
Closure: DIAM 30
Alcohol: 13.9%
Acidity: 5.25 g/l
pH: 3.7
Residual Sugar: 2 g/l

Malbec Terroir Uco Valley 2019

Uco Valley, Mendoza

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Vineyard

100% Uco Valley. Grapes are harvested by hand from a blend of high-density vineyards located in the sub-region of La Consulta as well as two areas in Tupungato. These are gravelly, alluvial soils with abundant stones and limestone presence.

Vintage

Our vines showed great balance this season; all previous work in the vineyards paid off. The weather during the season registered the highest maximum temperatures as well as the lowest minimum, compared to former seasons. This wide range of temperatures translated into very fruity flavors in the wines. During spring there was little rainfall and no late frosts. In January there were two important heat waves, which are typical in Mendoza. These heatwaves contributed to concentration in the grapes that, with our early harvest philosophy aimed to obtain natural acidity, produced wines of excellent quality and elegance.

Winemaking

Grapes from different vineyards are vinified separately before the final blend. The grapes are selected from a double selection table before going into small stainless steel tanks. The alcoholic fermentation begins with indigenous yeasts at 24-26°C, for 15 days. Each tank is tasted two times a day to determine what is needed. It is aged for 18 months in concrete pools (75% of the wine) and untoasted large oak foudres (25% of the wine). Ageing for 6 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes

Coming from a careful selection of grapes from the oldest geological part of Uco Valley, this Malbec shows a bright red color with indigo hints. The nose is wide and intense, with aromas of plum and black cherry fruit, as well as notes of spices, cinnamon, eucalyptus and clove. This is a fresh, elegant and subtle wine, with great texture. Tannins are balanced and deliver a round, juicy mouthfeel that makes one want to pour another glass! Ideal to pair with Mediterranean cuisine and red meats.

Technical Information

Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Malbec
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Winemakers: Alberto Antonini, Attilio Pagli, Federico Gambetta, Ana Wiederhold
Closure: DIAM
Alcohol: 13%
Acidity: 5.25 g/l
pH: 3.76
Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/l