Vina Alta Esencial Criolla 2025
Country
Argentina
Region
Mendoza
Producer
Bodegas Vina Alta
Grape(s)
Criolla Grande (100%)
Type
Red
Style
Light
Oaked Style
Unoaked
Body Style
Medium bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Dry
Alcohol Content
13%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
Organic practices
Sustainable
Yes-sustainable practices
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No
Region
The biggest and most important of Argentina`s wine regions, Mendoza includes a wide variety of altitudes and micro-climates to allow a huge range of wine styles. The main vineyard area is at the base of the Andes in the valley of the Mendoza River, with vineyards ranging from 500-1500 metres above sea level. Many early winemakers were of Italian origin and brought with them their native Barbera, Bonarda and Sangiovese. However, it is Malbec, originally from Bordeaux and the southwest of France, that has established the most successful presence in Mendoza.
Producer
Family-owned since 1965, Bodegas ViƱa Alta farms 97 hectares of estate vineyards across four properties in Mendoza`s Eastern Oasis which has the typical high altitude and dry conditions. Alongside classic varieties Argentina is known for, the estate champions indeginous grapes, reflecting the diversity of Mendoza`s viticultural heritage. Today the estate is led by Valentina Lucida and her children, the new generation winegrowers Emiliano and Candela, who together have steered the estate in a new direction. They combine careful vineyard management with a sustainable approach with various practices including; dry farming, avoiding all synthetic herbicides and chemical inputs, and maintain natural biodiversity. Together with their winemaker Miriam Gomez, who vinifies under a range of more innovative winemaking styles and minimal intervention, giving interesting varietal expression from both the native and international grapes, with the aim of making high quality and pure, refreshing wines.
Tasting Notes
An interesting wine made from local native grape, Criolla Grande which roots back to the 16th century. This is made as a light red, with light extractions, fermenting in steel with native yeasts, to preserve the delicate aromatics. Aged for 3 months on in steel on lees to help with texture. A fresh nose, with notes of dried rose petal, red cherry, raspberry and a subtle earthy, herbal character that is typical of the variety. The palate is light, with smooth tannins, lively acidity, and refreshing fruit.
Food
A versatile table wine, best served lightly chilled, ideal with charcuterie, pizza, tapas or as an aperitif.
