Origin
The estate’s vineyards are located in Cafayate in the very heart of the Calchaqui Valley, distinguished for being one of the highest wine regions in the world. The climate is very dry, with just 150 millimetres of rain in an average year and huge diurnal temperature fluctuations of around 20°C. The soils here are rocky, poor and sandy, so the roots of the vines are forced to dig deep to find the vital nutrients and water they need, which results in fruit with hugely concentrated flavour.
Producer
Amalaya translates as ‘hope for a miracle’ in the indigenous language of the now extinct tribe, the Calchaqui. The winery is situated in Cafayate, Calchaqui Valley in Salta in the far north of Argentina at nearly 1,828 metres above sea level. It is a part of the Hess Family Estates and is run with the same dedication to quality, sustainability and social responsibility as the other Hess Estates. All of the Amalaya wines are fruit driven in style, with a finesse that unites them. These wines offer incredible value for their quality and truly reflect their ‘sense of place‘.
Grape Variety
85% Malbec, 10% Tannat, 5% Petit Verdot
After careful sorting by hand at the winery, the grapes underwent four days of cold maceration. This was followed by a slow alcoholic fermentation with maceration on the skins lasting between 15-20 days which extracted good levels of colour and tannins. Malolactic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks before 25% of the wine was aged in used French oak barrels for a period of eight months prior to blending and bottling.
Food Match
Perfect with barbecued or roasted red meats.
Organic, Suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians
Alcohol Percentage
14%
Will (verified owner) –
We’re a big fan of the Torrontes white from this vineyard so had to try the Malbec and we were not disappointed. A lovely Malbec that lingers in the mouth. Definitely worth getting!