Winemaker Notes
In a brief period of time, Achaval Ferrer has become one of Argentina's benchmark wineries. A visit to the winery in April 2008 was eye-opening. They export 85% of their production, 40% to the USA. The newest releases will not disappoint."
-Wine Advocate
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2006 Quimera reveals a similar luxurious personality, layers of flavor, and a finish that just won’t quit. This sensational wine can be enjoyed in its succulent youth but should still be going strong in 12-15 years.
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Wine Spectator
Dark, with lots of currant and fig flavors layered with coffee and dark chocolate bark notes. Toasty, fleshy finish. This was the better of three bottles. Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2010. 5,513 cases made.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
With vineyards tretching along the eastern side of the Andes Mountains from Patagonia in the south to Salta in the north, Argentina is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic wine producing countries—and most important in South America.
Since the late 20th century vineyard investments, improved winery technology and a commitment to innovation have all contributed to the country’s burgeoning image as a producer of great wines at all price points. The climate here is diverse but generally continental and agreeable, with hot, dry summers and cold snowy winters—a positive, as snow melt from the Andes Mountains is used heavily to irrigate vineyards. Grapes very rarely have any difficulty achieving full ripeness.
Argentina’s famous Mendoza region, responsible for more than 70% of Argentina’s wine production, is further divided into several sub-regions, with Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley most noteworthy. Red wines dominate here, especially Malbec, the country’s star variety, while Chardonnay is the most successful white.
The province of San Juan is best known for blends of Bonarda and Syrah. Torrontés is a specialty of the La Rioja and Salta regions, the latter of which is also responsible for excellent Malbecs grown at very high elevation.