Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
C7 is the ultimate blend crafted by world renowned Master Blender, Michel Rolland. Michel discovered a special plot of land in Argentina, located at the foot of the Andes Mountains in the Uco Valley. With six other friends, Michel created the vineyard of 7, Clos de los Siete. Intrigued by its unique combination of high altitude, well drained soils, optimal aspect and dry climate, Michel was certain this land would be optimal for growing a variety of Bordeaux grapes, particularly Malbec.
Having worked with over 150 wineries across 13 countries, Michel is now the most famous consulting winemaker in the world. Today, we celebrate 20 years of Michel having founded C7 and planting his first vines in the Uco Valley.
With a winning combination of cool weather, high elevation and well-draining alluvial soils, it is no surprise that Mendoza’s Uco Valley is one of the most exciting up-and-coming wine regions in Argentina. Healthy, easy-to-manage vines produce low yields of high-quality fruit, which in turn create flavorful, full-bodied wines with generous acidity.
This is the source of some of the best Malbec in Mendoza, which can range from value-priced to ultra-premium. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay also perform well here.
With hundreds of red grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a fruity and full-bodied wine would do well combined with one that is naturally high in acidity and tannins. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
