Winemaker Notes
To understand our essence is to understand that Piattelli first and foremost is a unique and special place—the soil, the water, the air, and the climate—the terroir. Out of this place has evolved a people, a culture and a passion for wine. From that people, a select few have joined to form a team of specialists who are defined by our shared values and commitment to the truth and beauty that can only be found in our estate-level winemaking process. From our shared vision a respect for traditional winemaking techniques and appreciation for contemporary flavors have fused. Finally, Piattelli must be understood to be a story with a beautiful history, a bright future and a strong legacy.
So what is the essence of Piattelli Vineyards? Perhaps most keenly it can be described as the quite, heartfelt invitation we extend to each and every wine consumer to come and share in the various dimensions of our identity by enjoying the beautiful experience of drinking our wines, which are easy to drink yet delightfully expressive.
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.
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.