Winemaker Notes
Established in the late 1990s, Bodegas Salentein is a privately-owned estate of almost 5,000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. Located in Mendoza’s famed Uco Valley, Salentein produces a remarkable collection of wines from vineyards planted in some of the highest elevations on the planet.
As pioneers in Argentina’s Uco Valley, Salentein is committed to mastering the art of high altitude vineyard cultivation and producing the finest expression of South American wines while respecting the native land, people and culture. José Galante, Salentein’s distinguished Chief Winemaker, is one of the most influential in Argentina and has been called the “Father of Argentine Malbec.” Galante works closely with consultant and legendary winemaker Paul Hobbs to craft expressive wines with viticultural depth and a precise balance of flavors.
Bodegas Salentein is a wine destination like no other, and the property includes a world-class winery and cellars, a 125-acre nature preserve, the showpiece Killka Center for Culture and the Arts, a nearby lodge (the Posada Salentein, offering an elegant and relaxed retreat into nature), and the landmark Chapel of Gratitude, a non-denominational chapel built using ancient local stonework techniques.
Argentina of course is heralded for its Malbecs. But in the last two decades Cabernet Sauvignon has been drawing increased attention from winemakers there, and is now the third most planted variety. It is grown in the Mendoza region in the Andean foothills, especially in Maipú and Luján de Cuyo, at altitudes between 2300 and 3100 feet. Here the climate is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. It is very dry and sometimes quite windy, with runoff from the snow-capped Andes providing irrigation. These Argentinian Cabernets offer dark fruit, spice notes, full body and often a voluptuous style.
Another source within Mendoza is the higher altitude Uco Valley, at 3300 to 5000 feet. Up at this level grapes ripen more slowly, despite the bright sun. But that enables them to develop bright acidity levels, giving the wines a fresh quality to go with intense fruit flavors. Another source of good Cabernet Sauvignon in Argentina is Cafayate, in the Calchaquí Valley. North of Mendoza, these vineyards are even higher, at about 5700 feet! These Cabernets carry notes of spice, herbs and menthol to go with dark fruit. Like those from Uco Valley, they show concentration and great vibrancy.
A few producers to look for are Catena, Viña Cobos, Pulenta and Altocedro. Salud!