Gauchezco Oro Malbec 2009
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The palate boasts full tannins and good acidity, with flavors of pastry, chocolate, blackberry, plum and prune that are marked with an undercurrent of spice. Toasty and long, the finish has a strong licorice accent.
The long desired dream of the Anesi family came true when they finally purchased their ideal vineyard in the legendary site that is now the Gauchezco Vineyard. With fierce dedication, they continue to make this glorious historic property synonymous with world class wine.
Eric Anesi, moved to Mendoza, Argentina at age 27 in order to learn about the wine business from the ground up – literally. He started by taking ground and water samples from potential vineyard sites; picked grapes alongside other workers, who thought he was crazy for putting in such hard labor for "fun"; committed himself to speaking fluent Spanish; and, for the past several years has devoured any and all information and practical experience on growing the best grapes and making the best wine in Argentina.
Celebrated for its bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec has enjoyed runaway success in Argentina since the late 20th century. The grape originated in Bordeaux, France, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. A French agronomist, who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. Somm Secret—If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet with its combination of dense fruit and soft tannins.
By far the largest and best-known winemaking province in Argentina, Mendoza is responsible for over 70% of the country’s enological output. Set in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, the climate is dry and continental, presenting relatively few challenges for viticulturists during the growing season. Mendoza, divided into several distinctive sub-regions, including Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, is the source of some of the country’s finest wines.
For many wine lovers, Mendoza is practically synonymous with Malbec. Originally a Bordelaise variety brought to Argentina by the French in the mid-1800s, here it found success and renown that it never knew in its homeland where a finicky climate gives mixed results. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir are all widely planted here as well (and sometimes even blended with each other or Malbec). Mendoza's main white varieties include Chardonnay, Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.