Diego’s pick - August 2020
August, last month of summer, about time to introduce you with some Argentinean Malbec rose to enjoy the heat waves!
As you may know, rose wines are obtained from grape varieties with red skin and white pulp. In general, the harvest is gently crushed and the must is left to macerate in cold and in contact with the skins for a short period of time (10-18 hours) in order for them to acquire their characteristic coloration. Once this period has elapsed, the colored must is separated from the skins (without exerting any pressure), continuing the rest of the vinification as if it were a white wine. This production technique is used when rose is the primary product.
Rose can also be obtained as a by-product of the fermentation of red wine, using a technique known as “bleeding” (saignée). As the winemaker wishes to add more tannins and color to a red, part of the pink juice can be removed at an early stage. The red wine left in the vats intensifies as the total volume is reduced, and the grape juice from the maceration is further concentrated. Bleeding rose juice can be fermented separately to produce rose wine.
We can say that the Argentine rose was historically darker, with more body and intensity than the famous Rose de Provence. In the past decade, local consumption of rose wines went from 5 million to 10 million liters, which meant a growth of 100%. In this period, these wines have gained style, diversity and above all, quality at international standards. “ Today in Argentina you can have a high-quality rose, fresh, fruity with a delicate colour and balanced acidity” says Juan Carlos Muñoz (winemaker and owner of Viña Las Perdices).
Rose wines from Argentina come out of Malbec, Bonarda, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and are currently produced from Cafayate to Patagonia and of course in Mendoza.
This month I picked this wine not only because of its quality, freshness, subtle notes and original bottle, but mainly because it is a Malbec from Mendoza that one more time proves how versatile Malbec is. Moreover, I picked this Rose wine from Viña Las Perdices because it represents the new generation of Argentine winemakers, while still respecting the tradition of its origins.
Ideal to open a gathering, serving it as an aperitif or in combination with soft cheeses. It can be fantastically paired with raw fish (ceviche, sushi, sashimi), grilled fishes, guacamole or spicy curry.
Delicate salmon color, very attractive and bright. Wine of pleasant entrance and good volume. It causes a certain citrus sensation due to its balanced acidity. Cherry, berry and strawberry notes also stand out.
Check it out here & let’s enjoy it while sailing through one of the beautiful Dutch canals and rivers!
Cheers!
Picture credits: Viña Las Perdices
