Winemaker Cristian Garcia
Winery Finca la Celia
Appellation Uco Valley, Mendoza
Country Argentina
Grape varietal Malbec
HISTORY
In the end of the 19th century, Don Eugenio Bustos founded a town that today carries his name near the Finca la Celia winery. Don was a pioneer of viticulture, first planting 1,000 hectares of Malbec in the Uco Valley in 1890. Recently acquired by San Pedro Wine Group (CCU) in 2000 the winery is now 600 hectares.
TERROIR
The vines grow on a soil of alluvial origin with fine sandy and stony texture with low moisture retention capacity and poor natural fertility. The winery is located at 33º-34º South latitude at and altitude of 900-1500 meters. The climate is continental arid. Annual temperatures average 14ºC with very cold nights and hot days. Annual rainfall averages 300mm.
VITICULTURE & VINIFICATION
Vines are on average 9 years old with a vine density of 8,000 vines per hectare and a yield of 55 Hl / Hectare. The juice is fermented in temperature controlled tanks. 100% Malolactic fermentation.
AGEING
80% of the wines are aged in oak barrels during 12 months: 70% new French oak and 30% American oak. 6 months extra ageing in bottle in the cellars.
VINTAGE
As a result of high temperatures and little rain during the growth period of the berries in 2006, the fruit were smaller with a thicker skin and the vineyard's health was preserved by the low humidity. The weather during veraison was characterized by high temperatures during the day, low temperatures at night and great intensity of sun light. The result was a slow and smooth maturation which brought lively color and sweeter tannins.
STYLE
Eye: Intense ruby red color with violet hints.
Nose: A very expressive and elegant nose reflecting a perfect mix between black ripe fruit, violets, spices and tobacco.
Palate: Good structure in the mouth with rounded, sweet and velvety tannins. Long finish in the mouth.
FOOD PAIRING
Excellent for stews, grilled goat, grilled lamb and game.
WHEN TO DRINK
Now and up to 5 years, all year long.
TECHNICALS
Alcohol: 13.5%, Total acidity: 5.50 g/l, PH: 3.60, Residual sugar: 1.80 g/l
French Blonde 2008
La Pilar 2006
